Cloud computing (CC) is a model that allows ubiquitous, convenient, and on-demand access to computing resources. Other computers and users only access resources when they need them, which minimizes wastage and allows universal use of similar resources. Another name used to refer to this concept is on-demand computing, owing to its nature. It allows for the achievement of coherence and economies of scale in computer networks. When in need of understanding more about cloud computing Columbus OH is the place to visit.

The concept of on-demand computing has undergone a lot of changes. The exact origin of the term is still unclear up to this day even though several theories have been forwarded by various theorists regarding its origin. However, the use of the term goes as back 1996, with Compaq using it in one of its internal documents. Real popularization occurred in 2006 with the introduction of the Elastic Compute Cloud by Amazon.com.

CC developed from the adoption and evolution of paradigms and technologies in existence. The objective of its development is to allow the utilization of the various paradigms and technologies without having to understand or possess expertise in them. It allows for cutting of costs and elimination of IT obstacles. Therefore, users can focus more on differentiating their businesses from others instead of IT infrastructures.

The entire existence of CC is based on a technology called virtualization. Virtualization allows for separation of physical computing devices into virtual gadgets that are capable of doing tasks. Virtualization at the operating system level allows resources and time to be used more efficiently. IT operations are sped up through virtualization because it provides the needed speed. With increased speed, utilization of infrastructure is increase, which cuts costs.

There are three main service models in CC. These services advocate for making everything a service that can be used only when needed in a similar manner to how service providers render their services to those who need them. The three models of services are infrastructures as a service (IaaS), Platform and a service (PaaS), and Software as a service (SaaS). IaaS abstracts users from the details involved in infrastructure such as location, data partitioning, physical computer resources, security, backup, and scaling.

Various devices may be used by clients to access resources on a cloud. The only requirement is for the device to be Ethernet-enabled. Devices that can be used include smartphones, tablets, desktop computers, laptops, and home automation devices. The devices become almost useless without the cloud because they rely on it for everything. There are no specific software needed to access clouds. A browser is often enough.

There are a few deployment models in use today. These include private, public, hybrid, community, and distributed clouds. Others include multicloud and intercloud. Hybrid clouds combine two or more clouds such as private and community or public and private. Individual clouds remain distinct, but are used together.

Security and privacy are the two major concerns in this concept. Privacy and security arise from the fact that the information on clouds can be accessed at any time by the providers of the service. Additionally, service providers also share information with third parties, which may lead to loss of privacy.