Cloud
Cloud computing describes a new model for IT services based on the Internet whereby servers provide resources, software, and information to computers and other devices on demand. Consumers, who no longer need to have expertise in, or control over, the technology infrastructure "in the cloud" that supports them. This ease-of-access takes the form of web-based tools or applications that users can access and use through a web browser as if it was a program installed locally on their own computer (Eg Google Docs and MS Office Live).
Benefits
- No capital expenditure on hardware, software, and support services
- Consumption is billed on usage or subscription basis
- Shared infrastructure and costs
- Low management overhead
- Immediate access to a broad range of applications