Principles of Information and Technology Systems - IT 201: Cloud Computing

This set of flashcards covers fundamental concepts, benefits, characteristics, and challenges of cloud computing based on the IT 201 lecture notes.

Cloud Computing

A model enabling on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources.

Cloud Provider

The party that provides cloud-based IT resources.

Cloud Consumer

The party that uses cloud-based IT resources.

IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service)

Provides on-demand access to fundamental computing resources like virtual machines, storage, and networking.

PaaS (Platform as a Service)

Offers a pre-configured environment for developers to build, test, and deploy applications without managing the underlying hardware.

SaaS (Software as a Service)

Delivers fully functional application software over the internet on a subscription or pay-as-you-go basis.

Public Cloud

Cloud infrastructure shared by multiple organizations, typically under a pay-per-use model.

Private Cloud

Cloud infrastructure operated solely for a single organization.

Hybrid Cloud

A cloud model that mixes public and private clouds, allowing data and applications to move between them.

Community Cloud

Cloud infrastructure shared by several organizations for a shared cause, often managed by them or a third-party.

Sovereign Cloud

A cloud computing environment built to meet specific national or regional data sovereignty requirements.

On-Demand Self-Service

Users can access computing resources automatically without needing human interaction.

Resource Pooling

Provider's resources shared among multiple users using a multi-tenant model.

Rapid Elasticity

Resources can be quickly scaled up or down to meet changing demand.

Measured Service

Cloud systems monitor and optimize resource usage through metering.

Horizontal Scaling

Allocating or releasing IT resources of the same type to handle usage demands.

Vertical Scaling

Replacing an IT resource with another of higher or lower capacity.

Cloud Governance

A framework of policies that guide an organization's use of cloud services, ensuring compliance and security.

SLA (Service Level Agreement)

A contract detailing measurable characteristics related to IT outcomes, such as uptime and security.