Class Notes: Cloud Computing
1. What is Cloud Computing?
Imagine you want to play a video game, but you don't have a console at home. Instead, you go to a gaming zone and pay to play for one hour. You use their console, their electricity, and their TV.
Cloud Computing is similar.
It means using computer services over the Internet.
Instead of storing files or running programs on your own computer's hard drive, you access them online.
The "Cloud" is just a name for huge servers (powerful computers) connected to the Internet.
2. Key Features of Cloud Computing
Here are the main characteristics that make the Cloud special:
On-Demand: You can get service whenever you need it. It is like turning on a light switch.
Access Anywhere: You can open your files from a phone, a tablet, or a laptop. You just need the Internet.
Pay-as-you-go: You only pay for what you use. If you use less, you pay less.
Easy Scaling: If you need more space to save photos, you can get it instantly. You don't need to buy a new computer.
3. Types of Cloud Computing
There are three main ways to use the cloud. Think of it like transportation:
Public Cloud (Like a Bus):
Many people use it at the same time.
It is cheaper and owned by a service provider (like Google or Microsoft).
Example: Gmail or Google Drive.
Private Cloud (Like a Personal Car):
This cloud is used by only one person or one company.
It is very secure but can be expensive.
Example: A bank storing secret financial data.
Hybrid Cloud (Like a Taxi):
This is a mix of both Public and Private clouds.
You use the public cloud for simple things and the private cloud for secret things.
4. Advantages of Cloud Computing
Why is everyone using the Cloud?
Saves Money: You do not need to buy expensive computers or software.
Data Backup: If you lose your laptop, your data is still safe in the cloud.
Collaboration: Multiple students can work on the same project at the same time (like on Google Docs).
Unlimited Storage: You can store huge amounts of data without worrying about your hard drive getting full.
1. a) Cloud Computing
2. b) Services
B. Fill in the blanks -
1. Hybrid
2. Pay-per-use
3. cloud storage
4. trash
5. sign out / log out
C. True /False
1. True
2. True
3. True
4. False
5. False
D. Define the following -
1. IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service)
Full Form: Infrastructure as a Service.
Definition: This is like renting the "raw materials" of a computer. You rent the servers and storage space over the Internet, but you have to manage the software yourself.
Who uses it? Mostly IT experts and network administrators.
Simple Example: Microsoft Azure or Amazon Web Services (AWS).
2. PaaS (Platform as a Service)
Full Form: Platform as a Service.
Definition: This provides a platform (a playground) for creators. It gives you the tools and space you need to build and test your own software or apps without worrying about the hardware.
Who uses it? Software developers and coders.
Simple Example: Google App Engine (used to build apps).
3. SaaS (Software as a Service)
Full Form: Software as a Service.
Definition: This is ready-to-use software. You just open your web browser and use the app. You do not need to install anything on your computer.
Who uses it? Everyone (End Users like you and me).
Simple Example: Gmail, Google Drive, or Zoom.
E. Differentiate between the following -
| Public Cloud | Private Cloud | |
| It is owned by a service provider (like Google or Microsoft). | It is owned by a single company or organization. | |
| It is shared by many different people and companies. | It is used only by one specific organization. | |
| Cheaper. You do not need to buy servers. You just pay a monthly fee. | Expensive. You have to buy and maintain your own hardware. | |
| It is secure, but your data is on a shared server. | It is very secure because no one else has access to it. | |
| Eg. YouTube or Gmail. Anyone can sign up and use it. | Eg. A Bank's Database. Only bank employees can access the customer details. |
F. Answer the following in 1-2 sentences: -
1. What do you mean by cloud computing?
2. What are Service Providers?
Ans - Service providers are the companies, like Google or Microsoft, that own and manage the huge cloud servers. They offer services like storage and software to us over the Internet so we do not have to buy expensive equipment.
3. What is Google Drive?
Ans - Google Drive is a cloud storage service that allows you to save your documents, photos, and videos online. It lets you open and edit your files from any computer or phone that is connected to the Internet.
G. Answer briefly -
1. Write any three advantages of cloud computing?
Cost Saving: You save money because you do not need to buy expensive computers or hard drives.
Access Anywhere: You can open your work from any place and any device (like a phone or tablet) using the Internet.
Data Backup: Your files are safe in the cloud, so you won’t lose them even if your computer breaks or gets lost.
2. What are the characteristics of cloud computing?
three main characteristics of cloud computing are:
On-Demand Service: You can use cloud services whenever you want, just like turning on a light switch, without waiting for human help.1
Resource Pooling: The service provider shares the same huge computing resources (like storage and processing power) among many different people at the same time.2
Easy Scalability: You can easily increase or decrease your storage space or computing power instantly depending on your needs.3
H. Application based question -
Ans - Riya can use cloud storage service such Google Drive to upload her project on 'States of India' and share a link with her teacher online.
