Cloud Computing Glossary

Using someone else's computers over the internet instead of buying and maintaining your own hardware. Like renting a car instead of buying one.

Companies that own massive computer centers and rent out computing power. Think of them as tech landlords.

A fake computer that runs inside a real computer. It's like having multiple phones running on one device.

Amazon Web Services - Amazon's cloud computing platform that provides over 200 different services. Like a massive digital toolbox for building online applications.

Elastic Compute Cloud - Amazon's service for renting virtual computers in the cloud. Like renting a computer by the hour instead of buying one.

AWS's serverless computing service that runs your code without managing servers. Like having a helper who appears whenever you need them to do a specific task. The cross-cloud equivalents are Azure Functions (Azure), Cloud Functions / Cloud Run (GCP), and Oracle Functions (OCI).

Microsoft's cloud computing platform offering hundreds of services for building, deploying, and managing applications. Like Microsoft's version of a digital toolbox.

Google's cloud computing services that help you build, deploy, and scale applications using Google's infrastructure. Like using Google's massive computer network for your projects.

Running code without managing servers yourself - the cloud provider handles all the server management. Like ordering takeout instead of cooking at home.

Cloud services available over the internet to anyone who wants to use them, shared among multiple organizations. Like renting an apartment in a building where multiple tenants share infrastructure.

Cloud infrastructure dedicated exclusively to one organization, offering more control and security. Like owning your own private building instead of renting shared space.

Using both private (on-premises) and public cloud services together. Like having both a home kitchen and ordering takeout - using the best option for each situation.

Temporarily shifting workloads from private cloud to public cloud during peak demand periods. Like a restaurant opening an outdoor patio when they're too busy to handle customers inside.

AWS platform service that handles deployment and management of web applications. Like having a personal assistant handle all the technical setup while you focus on your code.

Automatically adjusting the number of servers based on demand. Like a restaurant that opens more tables during busy hours and closes them when it's quiet.

Azure platform for hosting web applications, REST APIs, and mobile backends. Like renting a fully-furnished office space where you can immediately start working without setup.

Google Cloud's platform for building and hosting web applications without managing servers. Like renting a fully-managed restaurant kitchen where you just need to provide the recipes.

Azure serverless compute service that runs code in response to events. Like having a helper that automatically does specific tasks whenever certain things happen.

Google's mobile and web application development platform with real-time database and hosting. Like having a complete backend service that handles all server-side needs for mobile apps.

Using services from multiple cloud providers to avoid vendor lock-in and optimize performance. Like shopping at different stores to get the best deals and products.

Building applications using cloud services that automatically manage servers and scaling. Like focusing on cooking while someone else handles the kitchen management.

Oracle Cloud Infrastructure - Oracle's comprehensive cloud platform offering compute, storage, networking, and database services. Like Oracle's complete digital toolkit for building and running applications.

AWS managed service for securely connecting IoT devices to the cloud, with features for device authentication, message routing, and device shadow state management. Like a central command center that manages billions of device connections and routes their messages to appropriate cloud services.

AWS IoT Edge runtime that extends cloud capabilities to local devices, enabling them to act locally on data while still using the cloud for management and analytics. Like having a local manager at each location who can make immediate decisions while still reporting to headquarters.

Azure's managed cloud service for bi-directional communication between IoT applications and devices, with built-in device identity registry and security features. Like a sophisticated switchboard operator that manages millions of simultaneous device conversations securely.

Azure service that deploys cloud workloads to run on IoT devices locally, enabling artificial intelligence and analytics at the edge. Like having a mini data center at each location that can process data instantly without waiting for cloud connectivity.

Google Cloud's fully managed service for securely connecting and managing IoT devices at scale. Note: Google Cloud deprecated this service in August 2023, recommending migration to partner solutions or third-party IoT platforms. Like a postal service that closed down, directing customers to alternative delivery services.

Oracle Cloud's IoT platform service for connecting, analyzing, and integrating device data with enterprise applications and databases. Like a specialized bridge that connects factory floor devices directly to your business systems and Oracle databases.

Cloud-based virtual representation of an IoT device that stores its last known state and desired future state, enabling applications to interact with devices even when they're offline. Like leaving a note for someone who's away, so they know what to do when they return.

Google Cloud's serverless compute service that runs code in response to events. Like having helpers that automatically spring into action when specific things happen. It is GCP's equivalent of AWS Lambda for event-driven serverless functions.

Google Cloud's serverless platform for running containerized applications that scales automatically, including to zero. Like having a hosting service that adjusts resources based on demand. Alongside Cloud Functions, it serves as GCP's equivalent of AWS Lambda for flexible serverless compute.

Google Cloud's fully managed cron job scheduler for automating tasks. Like having a reliable alarm clock that triggers your cloud operations on a schedule.

Having backup copies or duplicate systems that can take over if the primary one fails. Like having a spare tire in your car or a backup power generator.

Ability of a system to continue operating properly even when some components fail. Like a plane that can fly safely even if one engine stops working.

A system's ability to recover quickly from failures and continue operating under adverse conditions. Like a boxer who gets knocked down but gets back up and keeps fighting.

Automatically switching to a backup system when the primary system fails. Like a backup generator kicking in instantly when the power goes out.

Returning operations to the primary system after it has been restored. Like moving back home after evacuation when it's safe to return.

Backup system that's fully running and ready to take over instantly if the primary system fails. Like having a second pilot ready to take the controls immediately.

Backup system that's partially running and can take over quickly but not instantly. Like having a car engine that's warmed up but not fully running.

Backup system that's not running and requires manual setup to activate. Like spare equipment in storage that needs installation before use.

Architecture where multiple systems run simultaneously and share the workload. Like having two engines powering one plane at the same time.

Architecture where one system actively handles traffic while backup systems wait on standby. Like having a backup quarterback ready to enter the game if needed.

Disaster Recovery Site - alternate location where operations can continue if the primary site becomes unavailable. Like a backup office ready to use if your main building is damaged.

Oracle's virtual machine service providing scalable compute resources. Like renting a powerful computer in Oracle's data center that you can configure for any workload.

Oracle's serverless compute service for running code without managing servers. Like having helpers that automatically appear to do specific tasks when needed.

Using someone else's computers over the internet for specific tasks instead of doing everything on your own device. Like renting specialized equipment instead of buying it.

Applications that run on cloud servers instead of entirely on your device. Like using a tool that exists in a workshop you can visit anytime, rather than owning the tool yourself.

Automatically keeping your files updated and identical across all your devices through the cloud. Like having magic filing cabinets that instantly copy changes to all your other cabinets.

Accessing your files, programs, or computer from a different location using the internet. Like being able to use your home computer while you're at the office.

The ability to automatically get more computing power when needed and less when not needed. Like a restaurant that can instantly add more tables during busy times and remove them when quiet.

The ability to dynamically and automatically adjust cloud resources up or down based on actual demand in real-time. Like a balloon that expands and contracts based on how much air you put in.

Using the same service or accessing the same files from different devices like phones, tablets, and computers. Like having keys that work on all your doors.

How consistently a cloud service stays available and working properly. Like how dependable your electricity or water service is at home.

Different cloud services working together seamlessly to create a better user experience. Like having all your home appliances connected and coordinated.

Infrastructure as a Service - renting basic computing resources like servers and storage from cloud providers. Like leasing an empty warehouse where you bring your own equipment and setup.

Platform as a Service - cloud platform that provides development tools and infrastructure so you can focus on building applications. Like renting a fully equipped kitchen where you just cook without worrying about maintaining appliances.

Software as a Service - using software applications over the internet without installing them on your computer. Like using Netflix instead of buying DVDs - you access the service, not own the software.

Function as a Service - running individual code functions in the cloud without managing servers. Like hiring a specialist to perform one specific task only when needed.

Managing and provisioning cloud infrastructure using code files instead of manual configuration. Like having a recipe that automatically builds your entire kitchen setup.

A geographic location where cloud providers have data centers. Like different cities where a company has branch offices - you choose the one closest to your customers.

Isolated data centers within a cloud region that provide backup and redundancy. Like having multiple bank branches in the same city - if one has problems, others keep working.

GCP managed build service that can both compile code and orchestrate deployment workflows. Like a versatile automation system that can handle the entire journey from source code to running application.

GCP service for advanced deployment orchestration with support for progressive rollouts and approval gates. Like a sophisticated deployment manager that carefully rolls out changes with safety checks.

Microsoft Azure's unified CI/CD platform that combines build execution and deployment orchestration in one YAML-based service. Like an all-in-one automation suite that handles everything from code compilation to production deployment.

Oracle Cloud's managed build service for automated code compilation, testing, and artifact creation. Like a quality control station that ensures code is properly built and tested before deployment.

Oracle Cloud's deployment orchestration service supporting automated deployments with rolling updates, blue-green strategies, and approval gates. Like a deployment coordinator that safely manages how new versions reach production.

Moving applications, data, or infrastructure from one environment to another, such as from on-premises servers to the cloud or between cloud providers. Like relocating a business to a new building while keeping everything running.

Spare cloud computing capacity available at steep discounts (up to 90% off) but can be reclaimed with short notice. Like flying standby for much cheaper tickets, but you might get bumped.

Cloud computing capacity purchased in advance at discounted rates in exchange for a commitment period (1-3 years). Like signing a long-term lease for lower monthly rent.

Flexible pricing model offering discounts in exchange for consistent usage commitment, without being tied to specific instance types. Like a gym membership that works at any location in the chain.

The process of updating legacy applications and infrastructure to take advantage of cloud-native technologies and practices. Like renovating an old building with modern amenities.

A comprehensive suite of cloud services from a single provider that enables building, deploying, and managing applications. Like a complete toolkit for building in the cloud.

Adjusting cloud resources to match actual usage needs, eliminating waste from over-provisioned or under-utilized resources. Like switching from a large apartment to one that fits your actual living needs.

The process of determining the cloud resources needed to meet current and future workload demands while optimizing costs. Like planning how much food to buy for a growing family, capacity planning involves analyzing usage patterns, forecasting growth, and ensuring enough compute, storage, and network resources are available without over-provisioning. Cloud providers offer tools like AWS Compute Optimizer, Azure Advisor, GCP Recommender, and OCI Cloud Advisor to help right-size resources.

A cloud service that lets you communicate with orbiting satellites to collect, process, and downlink data — without building your own satellite dish infrastructure. Like renting a radio tower that can talk to space, ground station services handle the complex antennas and signal processing so you can focus on using the data. AWS Ground Station provides on-demand access to satellite antennas at locations worldwide, Azure Orbital Ground Station connects to spacecraft and satellite constellations, and specialized providers offer similar capabilities for Earth observation, weather monitoring, and communications.

Cloud services and platforms that enable building augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences by providing the compute power, 3D rendering, spatial anchoring, and content delivery needed for immersive applications. Like having a movie studio's special effects department available on demand, these services handle the heavy processing of overlaying digital content onto the real world or creating fully virtual environments. AWS offers Amazon Sumerian for AR/VR creation, Azure provides Spatial Anchors and Remote Rendering for mixed reality, and various cloud-based tools support building immersive training, retail, and entertainment applications.

Cloud-based services for developing, simulating, testing, and managing robotic applications at scale. Like giving robots a brain in the cloud, these platforms offload heavy computation such as machine learning inference, path planning, and fleet management to powerful cloud servers while robots execute tasks locally. AWS RoboMaker provides simulation environments and ROS (Robot Operating System) support, Azure offers cloud-connected robotics through IoT Hub and Digital Twins, and GCP provides AI and ML services commonly integrated with robotic systems for navigation, object recognition, and decision-making.

A managed service that lets organizations create and distribute curated portfolios of approved cloud resources, applications, and configurations that users can deploy through a self-service portal. Like a company's internal app store with pre-approved items, service catalogs ensure teams can quickly provision resources that meet organizational standards for security, compliance, and cost. AWS Service Catalog lets admins define CloudFormation-based products, Azure offers Managed Applications for marketplace distribution, GCP provides Service Catalog for organizing cloud resources, and OCI has its own service marketplace for standardized deployments.

A cloud messaging service that delivers real-time alerts and messages directly to users' mobile devices, web browsers, or applications — even when the app isn't actively open. Like a digital tap on the shoulder, push notifications enable apps to re-engage users with timely, relevant information. AWS offers Amazon SNS (Simple Notification Service) for mobile push, Azure provides Notification Hubs, GCP has Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM), and OCI supports notifications through its Notification Service. These platforms handle device registration, message routing, platform-specific formatting (iOS, Android, web), and delivery tracking at massive scale.

Technology that lets you access and control a computer from another location over the internet. Like having a virtual window into another computer where you can see its screen and control its mouse and keyboard from anywhere. Cloud services like AWS WorkSpaces, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Google Cloud Workstations provide fully managed remote desktops that employees can access from any device.

An AWS infrastructure offering that embeds compute and storage services directly inside telecom providers' 5G networks. Like having a mini data center built right into the cell tower, Wavelength eliminates the extra network hops between 5G devices and cloud services, delivering single-digit millisecond latencies for applications that need instant response times. It extends familiar AWS services (EC2, EBS, VPC) to the edge of the 5G network so developers can build ultra-low-latency applications using the same APIs and tools they already know.

The maximum amount of traffic or demand a system experiences during its busiest period. Like a highway during rush hour — everyone is trying to use the road at the same time, and without enough lanes, things slow to a crawl. Cloud systems use auto scaling to handle peak loads without crashing.

A physical server exclusively reserved for a single customer, with no resources shared with other users. Like renting an entire house instead of sharing an apartment — you get all the space, power, and privacy to yourself. Dedicated servers offer maximum performance and security for workloads that can't share hardware with other tenants.

A service that hosts websites made of pre-built HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files without needing a traditional server. Like putting up a billboard — the content is ready-made and displayed as-is, making it incredibly fast and cheap to serve.

A browser-based command line terminal that comes pre-loaded with cloud management tools, letting you manage cloud resources directly from your web browser without installing anything on your computer. Like having a fully-equipped workshop that appears anywhere you open your laptop.

An automated cloud service that uses machine learning to identify unusual spikes or unexpected changes in your cloud spending. Like having a smart credit card alert that notices when your spending pattern suddenly changes — it catches runaway costs before they become huge bills.

OCI's serverless compute service for running event-driven functions without managing infrastructure. Based on the open-source Fn Project, it is OCI's equivalent of AWS Lambda, Azure Functions, and GCP Cloud Functions.

Computer systems where components run across multiple networked machines but appear as a single coherent system. The backbone of modern cloud architecture — handling challenges like network partitions, consistency, and fault tolerance. The CAP theorem states that distributed systems can only guarantee two of: Consistency, Availability, and Partition tolerance.