Menu

Systems

Cloud

Plain English

Using internet-based instead of local machines.

Definition

Cloud refers to the of computing such as storage, processing, and networking over the internet.

In practice

Used to host applications, store , and scale without managing physical hardware.

In context

The decision is rarely technical any more. It is about which costs you want to be fixed and which variable, and how much operational work you want to own.

The reality

Cloud can become expensive and complex without proper management.

Compared with

Cloud vs On-Premise

Cloud rents capacity and shifts operations to a provider, trading control for elasticity. On-premise owns the hardware, trading flexibility for control, predictable cost at scale, and locality.

FAQ

Common questions

A few practical answers to the questions that usually come up around this term.

What is cloud computing?

It is using internet-based for computing resources.

Why is cloud important?

It enables and flexibility.

What are examples of cloud services?

Storage, hosting, and databases.

What is a downside of cloud?

Cost and complexity.

Related Services

Related Guides

Related Terms

LET'S WORK TOGETHER

Ready to improve your product?

UX, research and product leadership for teams tackling complex digital services.

Previous feedback

I had a fantastic experience working with Andy. One of his most impressive achievements during our time at NHS HEE was masterminding a deeply complex information architecture for a new platform that brought together a large number of legacy websites.

Will Parkhouse

Senior Content Designer