Systems
Cloud
Plain English
Using internet-based glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term instead of local machines.
Definition
Cloud refers to the glossaryDeliveryDelivery is the process of building, testing, and releasing a product or feature.Open glossary term of computing glossaryServiceA service is a component or function that performs a specific task within a system.Open glossary term such as storage, processing, and networking over the internet.
In practice
Used to host applications, store glossaryDataData is raw, uninterpreted information collected and stored so it can be analysed, processed, or used to inform decisions. On its own it carries no meaning; context and interpretation are what make it useful.Open glossary term, and scale glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term 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 glossaryDataData is raw, uninterpreted information collected and stored so it can be analysed, processed, or used to inform decisions. On its own it carries no meaning; context and interpretation are what make it useful.Open glossary term 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 glossaryServiceA service is a component or function that performs a specific task within a system.Open glossary term for computing resources.
Why is cloud important?
It enables glossaryScalabilityScalability is the ability of a system to handle increased demand without losing performance.Open glossary term and flexibility.
What are examples of cloud services?
Storage, hosting, and databases.
What is a downside of cloud?
Cost and complexity.
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