What is cloud computing?

Cloud computing refers to the use of internet-based services to provide shared resources, processing power, and data storage, allowing users to access and utilize these resources on demand. This model enables individuals and organizations to store vast amounts of data, run applications, and access computing power without the need for extensive on-premises infrastructure.

With cloud computing, users can leverage resources hosted in data centers managed by cloud service providers, which offer scalability and flexibility. This means businesses can increase or decrease their use of resources based on their needs, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The shared nature of these resources is a key characteristic of cloud computing, as it allows multiple users to access the same infrastructure without conflict.

Other choices focus on methods that do not capture the essence of cloud computing. Storing data on a local hard drive limits accessibility and collaboration, while managing on-premises data centers does not involve the shared, internet-based aspect of cloud services. Furthermore, an application programming interface (API) is a set of rules that allows different software applications to communicate with each other and does not define cloud computing itself.