About cloud services

What is cloud computing?

Cloud computing is a way of using the internet to access shared resources, software, and information whenever needed. It covers any service that delivers these resources online. The 'cloud' is a virtual version of things like networks, servers, applications, data storage and services.

Types of cloud applications and services

There are a range of applications that can be delivered to users via cloud computing models, from email or content management to specialist applications for activities such as project management or human resources management or data storage.

Cloud computing models include:

• Software-as-a-Service (SaaS): This is when business applications are provided over the internet. The provider takes care of the hardware and software, and users interact with the system through a web portal. Examples include web-based email, inventory management, and database services.
• Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS): This is when the provider offers tools and software for developers to build applications online. Developers use the provider’s platform to create their own apps via the internet.
• Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS): This is when the provider offers virtual infrastructure, like servers, storage, and access, for businesses to use as needed.

Different types of cloud deployment

A cloud can be private or public.

• A public cloud is a provider that anyone can purchase services from (in some cases these are free services).
• A private cloud is where the cloud infrastructure is provisioned for the exclusive use of certain users (for example, a company or a government).

There are different considerations and risks involved in cloud arrangements depending on the model deployed and services used.