What is ink?

Cloud computing is a way of delivering computer services-like storage, processing power, and software-over the internet instead of using a personal computer or local server. Think of it as renting space and tools in a huge, shared online warehouse that you can access from anywhere.

Let's break it down

  • Servers: Powerful computers in data centers that run your apps and store your data.
  • Virtualization: Software that splits one physical server into many virtual machines, so multiple users can share the same hardware safely.
  • Storage: Online disks where files, databases, and backups live, accessible through the internet.
  • Networking: The internet connections that let your device talk to the cloud services.
  • Service Models:
  • IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) - you get raw computing resources.
  • PaaS (Platform as a Service) - you get a ready‑to‑use platform for building apps.
  • SaaS (Software as a Service) - you use complete applications delivered online.

Why does it matter?

Because it lets individuals and businesses use powerful technology without buying and maintaining expensive hardware. It makes scaling up (adding more resources) or scaling down (reducing resources) quick and cheap, and it lets you work from any device with an internet connection.

Where is it used?

  • Streaming movies and music (Netflix, Spotify) store and deliver content from the cloud.
  • Online collaboration tools (Google Workspace, Microsoft 365) run as SaaS.
  • Mobile apps that need to sync data (WhatsApp, Instagram) rely on cloud back‑ends.
  • Companies back up their files and run disaster‑recovery plans in the cloud.
  • Developers test and launch new software using cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.

Good things about it

  • Cost‑effective: Pay only for what you use, no big upfront hardware purchases.
  • Scalable: Add or remove resources instantly to match demand.
  • Accessible: Work from anywhere on any device with internet access.
  • Reliability: Major providers offer high uptime and automatic backups.
  • Innovation: Easy access to advanced tools like AI, big‑data analytics, and serverless computing.

Not-so-good things

  • Internet dependence: If your connection is slow or down, you can’t reach your data or apps.
  • Security concerns: Storing data off‑site raises privacy and breach risks; you must trust the provider’s safeguards.
  • Ongoing costs: While there’s no big upfront spend, monthly fees can add up if resources aren’t managed well.
  • Vendor lock‑in: Moving services between providers can be complex and costly.
  • Latency: For some real‑time tasks, the distance to the data center can cause noticeable delays.