Cloud Computing Fundamentals

Study Notes

Cloud computing is a virtualization-based technology that enables the creation, configuration, and customization of applications via an internet connection.
It can provide services over public and private networks, including WAN, LAN, or VPN.

Refers to the manipulation, configuration, and access of hardware and software resources remotely.
Offers online data storage, infrastructure, and application services.

A cloud computing platform created for programmers to develop, test, run, and manage applications.
Enables developers to create and deploy applications without managing the underlying infrastructure.

Also known as "on-demand software".
A software hosted by a cloud service provider, accessible via an internet connection and web browser.
Users can access and use applications without managing the underlying infrastructure.

Personal Area Network (PAN): connects devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops within an individual's workspace, with a range of a few meters, using technologies like Bluetooth and Infrared.
Local Area Network (LAN): connects computers within a limited area, such as a school, office, or home, with a range of a building or small campus, using technologies like Ethernet and Wi-Fi.
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): connects multiple LANs within a metropolitan area, with a range of a city or large campus, using technologies like city-wide Wi-Fi and cable TV networks.
Wide Area Network (WAN): connects multiple LANs and MANs across large geographical areas, with a range of a country or across continents, using technologies like the Internet.

Client-Server Network: a centralized architecture where a server provides resources and services to client machines, used in applications like web services and email servers.
Peer-to-Peer Network (P2P): a decentralized architecture where all devices (peers) share resources and communicate directly, used in applications like file sharing and blockchain networks.
Hybrid Network: a combination of client-server and P2P architectures, used in enterprise networks.

Intranet: a private network accessible only to an organization's members, used in internal corporate networks.
Extranet: a private network that allows access to partners, vendors, and suppliers, used in supply chain management systems.
Internet: a global network connecting millions of private, public, academic, business, and government networks, used in the World Wide Web.

Wired Networks: use physical cables (e.g., Ethernet cables, fiber optics) for transmission, providing reliable and high-speed data transfer.
Wireless Networks: use radio waves and microwaves for transmission, providing mobile and flexible connectivity in technologies like Wi-Fi and cellular networks.