Definition of Cloud Computing

There are various definitions of Cloud Computing. The term "cloud computing" has become a popular marketing term that needs clarification.

The Gartner Group defines Cloud Computing as “a style of computing in which massively scalable IT-related capabilities are provided "as a service" using Internet technologies to multiple external customers.” Gartner’s definition of Cloud Computing is at odds with the U.S. Government, and other definitions that are widely accepted. It’s useful to check out the different definitions.

The most recent NIST definition states, “Cloud Computing is a model for enabling ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction. “

The Fast Cloud Group defines Cloud Computing “as a new style of computing in which dynamically scalable and often virtualized resources are provided as a pay for use service over the Internet or an Intranet network (or both). Users need not have knowledge of, expertise in, or control over the technology infrastructure in the "cloud" that supports them. “

No matter how many definitions exist, the major benefits of Cloud Computing are becoming clear as the demand accelerates.

The NIST definition is widely accepted.

The IDC definition.

The U.C. Berkeley definition