This chapter introduces the concepts of Cloud computing, Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). The top Cloud providers are also discussed briefly.
In a nutshell, the following topics will be covered throughout this chapter:
- Cloud computing basics
- Concepts and terminology
- Goals and benefits
- Risks and challenges
- Roles and boundaries
- Cloud characteristics
- Cloud delivery models
- Cloud deployment models
Whether you are running applications that share photos across millions of mobile users or whether you are supporting the critical operations of your business, a Cloud services platform offers rapid access to flexible and low-cost IT resources. With Cloud computing, you don't need to invest heavily on managing hardware. Instead, you can provision the suitable computing resources that you need to power your ideas or manage your IT department's operations. You can instantaneously access the required resources...