What Is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing becomes the mindset for shared resources that can be used economically from just about anywhere. This chapter provides an overview of cloud computing and primary concepts that have enabled it to become the leading approach for rolling out enterprise IT resource. Cloud computing was the result of the perfect storm to continue the atmospheric paradigm. Today, cloud computing focuses on three primary areas: cost reduction, capacity planning, and business agility. All three areas relate to business needs and help make a case for moving to the cloud. A cloud can be hosted specifically by an organization for its exclusive use, or an organization can use services that reside on a cloud hosted by an outside vendor. The type of cloud solution reflects the complexity of the systems and how many functions it can replace. Despite the advantages and compelling reasons to utilize cloud computing, several disadvantages do exist.