Cloud Computing Types and Uses.
Definition
Cloud computing
Cloud computing allows businesses to store, process, and access data and applications over the internet instead of installing them on a local machine.
The Cloud is not a magical place in the sky: it's a network of powerful servers stored in global data centres, rented out on-demand.
Analogy
Like borrowing tools from a mega hardware shop, use what you need, return it when you're done.
The Three Main Types of Cloud Services
| Model | What You Get | You Manage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| SaaS | Ready-to-use software | Just your data | General users, quick setup |
| PaaS | Platform for building apps | Your app + your data | Developers, app creators |
| IaaS | Virtual servers & networking | Almost everything | System admins, large organisations |
Software as a Service (SaaS)
- Use the full software in a browser or app, no need to install or update.
- The provider manages everything, updates, security, infrastructure
- Access from anywhere
- Examples:
- Google Docs, Gmail, Google Drive
- Microsoft 365
- Zoom, Canva
- Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce NOW
Analogy
- Like getting a Taxi or Uber from one location to another.
- You don't manage the car or driving or maintenance, you simply get from one place to another.
- For a fee.
Note
You don’t “own” SaaS apps, you’re renting access via a subscription.
Platform as a Service (PaaS)
- You build and deploy your own apps, but the provider manages the platform.
- No server setup, no OS updates
- Focus on writing code, not configuring servers
- Examples:
- Google App Engine
- AWS Elastic Beanstalk
- Firebase (Backend as a Service)
Analogy
- Like renting a car for a trip.
- You don't own it, you don't maintain it, but you are in control of how to drive it and where to go and what routes to take.
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
- You rent virtual hardware, storage, servers, networks, and do everything else yourself.
- Full control and flexibility
- Good for large or complex systems
- Examples:
- AWS EC2
- Microsoft Azure VMs
- Google Compute Engine
- DigitalOcean, Linode
Analogy
Like renting an empty plot of land, build and manage everything from scratch.
Cloud vs Local: Who Owns What?
| Feature | Cloud (SaaS/PaaS/IaaS) | Local Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | You license access | You own a copy |
| Updates | Provider-controlled | You choose when |
| Data control | On shared/remote servers | Fully local |
| Internet needed | Usually yes | Not always |
Note
Cloud apps are convenient, but you don't really “own” them.
Case study
Real-World Case: Nintendo Switch 2 – Ownership or Access?
The Concern:
Leading up to the release date, some reports suggested the Switch 2 may use more cloud-based games, where you stream the game instead of installing it.
The Catch:
- You don’t own the game, you’re licensing access through your Nintendo account.
- If the licence expires, servers shut down, or the game is delisted, you could lose access, even if you paid full price.
Why Gamers Worry:
- No physical copy
- No local install
- Risk of paying full price for something that could vanish
Lesson:
Cloud gaming is convenient, but it highlights the growing gap between owning software and just accessing it temporarily.
Advantages of Cloud Computing
- Scalability: Add/remove resources to match demand
- Cost Savings: No hardware to buy – pay for what you use
- Remote Access: Use services from anywhere
- Automatic Updates: Always have the latest version
- Disaster Recovery: Backups and redundancy built-in
- Collaboration: Work together on live documents from anywhere
Disadvantages of Cloud Computing
- Internet Required: No internet = no access
- Security Risks: Remote data can be hacked or misused
- Less Control: Especially true for SaaS and PaaS
- Ongoing Cost: Subscriptions can add up over time
- Vendor Lock-In: Hard to switch providers once you’re set up
- Ownership Confusion: You may pay a lot but never “own” the software/data
Self review
Checklist:
- I can define SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS clearly.
- I understand how much control each model offers.
- I can compare cloud vs local installation.
- I understand the ownership issues in cloud services.
- I can explain real-world examples (e.g. Nintendo Switch 2, Google Drive, MS365, Google Cloud and Firebase).
- I know key advantages and disadvantages of cloud computing.
