Which of the following best describes cloud computing?
Multiple Choice
Internet based computing where an ERP system is shared amongst multiple firms.
Internet based computing where shared resources, software and information are
Internet based software which is used to run SQL queries.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
Internet based computing where shared resources, software and information are
Explanation
Cloud computing is a model for delivering computing services—such as servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence—over the internet (“the cloud”) to offer faster innovation, flexible resources, and economies of scale. The defining feature of cloud computing is that these services are hosted on remote servers and accessed through the internet, rather than being installed and operated on a local computer or on-premises data center.
The correct choice, “Internet based computing where shared resources, software and information are”, best captures the essence of cloud computing. It emphasizes the sharing aspect—resources like processing power, storage, and applications are pooled and dynamically allocated to users as needed. This shared model allows multiple users or organizations to access and use services without managing the physical infrastructure behind them.
Cloud computing is generally categorized into three service models:
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Provides virtualized computing resources over the internet.
- Platform as a Service (PaaS): Offers hardware and software tools over the internet, typically for application development.
- Software as a Service (SaaS): Delivers software applications via a web browser.
Cloud services can also be deployed in various ways, such as public, private, or hybrid clouds, depending on the organization’s needs for control, security, and compliance.
The incorrect choices in the question misrepresent cloud computing:
- Sharing an ERP system among multiple firms is a narrow example of cloud-based SaaS, not a full definition of cloud computing.
- Running SQL queries over the internet refers to a specific use case (e.g., using cloud databases), not a broad definition.
In conclusion, cloud computing is a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective way to access and manage IT services and resources online.
