Introduction to Cloud Computing

Study Notes

Cloud computing involves utilizing applications, infrastructure, and data storage over the internet.
It combines hardware and software to deliver services.
Users can dynamically provision and release resources according to their needs.
Scaling resources up or down is automatic based on demand.
Resources are accessible through a secure network.
Costs are based on usage and resource type.
Popular Cloud Platforms are AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.

Software: Traditional computing involves installing software on individual computers, while cloud computing delivers software as services accessible over the web.
Access: Traditional access is through the computer, while cloud computing relies on internet connectivity.
Upgrades: Cloud computing offers automatic and easy upgrades, contrasting with the manual and complex nature of traditional upgrades.
Versions: Cloud computing utilizes a single codebase with no infrastructure maintenance, eliminating the need for managing multiple versions like traditional systems.
Hardware: With traditional computing, users purchase, maintain, and manage hardware, while cloud computing promotes a pay-as-you-go model.
Collaboration: Cloud collaboration fosters greater collaboration from widespread locations, unlike the limited collaboration provided by traditional systems.

On-Demand Self Services: Cloud computing provides flexibility to quickly adjust resources to meet fluctuating demands, such as email, applications, network, or server services.
Disaster Recovery: Cloud-based backup and recovery solutions offer time-saving benefits, reduce upfront investments, and leverage third-party expertise.
Automatic Software Updates: Cloud service providers handle software and security updates, alleviating the burden on users.
Measured Service: Cloud computing promotes cost-effective pay-as-you-go models, aligning expenses with actual usage.
Broad Network Access: Cloud computing enhances collaboration by providing anytime, anywhere access to information and documents.
Resource Pooling: A centralized location for data storage in the cloud enables real-time updates and efficient document control.
Security: Data stored in the cloud benefits from robust security measures, safeguarding it from potential system failures or data loss.
Environmentally Friendly: Cloud computing optimizes energy consumption by only using the necessary resources, reducing environmental impact.
Scalable & Rapid Elasticity: Organizations can quickly adjust application resources to meet fluctuating customer demands and manage costs effectively.

Data Breaches: Cloud service breaches can expose sensitive data to cyber criminals, highlighting the importance of data ownership clauses in agreements.
Hijacking of Accounts: Attackers exploit various methods, including internet-based tactics, to steal user credentials, posing a threat to cloud account security.
Insider Threat: Employees with authorized access to cloud-based services can potentially misuse or access sensitive information, such as customer accounts or financial data.
Malware Injection: Malicious code can be injected into cloud environments, disrupting applications, stealing data, or causing system failures.