Cloud computing can be confusing, with multiple models, different types of cloud services, and perceived money-saving features that may be too good to be true. When comparing the available cloud services, you need to find a solution that will fit your data and applications needs but won’t cause you to compromise on security or cost. Also, be sure the service you sign up for is a bona fide cloud computing environment.
Cloud Computing Definitions
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) states that a cloud environment should enable “ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources.” Users should be able to monitor the environment and receive “rapid elasticity” and “on-demand self-service,” according to NIST. Cloud computing has three service models (SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS) with four deployment models (private, community, public, and hybrid).