Which of the following best describes cloud computing?
a) Virtual desktop computing
b) Lightweight software that takes up little storage space
c) Computing services that can be accessed on demand across the Internet
d) The World Wide Web
e) Mobile-based social IT
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: c) Computing services that can be accessed on demand across the Internet
Explanation
Cloud computing refers to the delivery of various computing services—such as servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence—over the Internet (“the cloud”). This model enables users to access these services on demand without needing to manage physical infrastructure or worry about hardware maintenance.
The defining feature of cloud computing is its on-demand availability. This means users can access computing resources whenever they need them, usually by paying only for what they use. Services are scalable, allowing individuals and businesses to increase or decrease their usage as needed.
Cloud computing is broadly divided into three service models:
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Offers virtualized computing resources over the Internet (e.g., Amazon Web Services).
- Platform as a Service (PaaS): Provides a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications without dealing with infrastructure (e.g., Google App Engine).
- Software as a Service (SaaS): Delivers software applications over the Internet on a subscription basis (e.g., Microsoft 365, Google Workspace).
Cloud computing has revolutionized IT by promoting agility, flexibility, and cost savings. It eliminates the need for large capital investments in hardware and software, and supports remote work by allowing users to access systems and data from anywhere with an Internet connection.
Let’s clarify why the other options are incorrect:
- a) Virtual desktop computing is a specific use case of cloud computing, not its full definition.
- b) Lightweight software may be a feature of cloud apps but doesn’t define cloud computing.
- d) The World Wide Web refers to the system of interlinked web pages, not computing services.
- e) Mobile-based social IT is unrelated and too narrow to describe cloud computing.
Thus, option (c) best encapsulates the essence of cloud computing.
