What does "cloud computing" mean in technical terms?

Cloud computing refers to the practice of storing and accessing data over the internet instead of relying on local servers or physical storage devices. In technical terms, it involves using remote servers hosted on the internet to manage, store, and process data. This allows users to access their data and applications from any device with internet connectivity, providing greater flexibility, scalability, and efficiency.

By leveraging cloud services, organizations can reduce costs associated with maintaining physical infrastructure, enhance collaboration by enabling real-time sharing of data, and improve data security with centralized backup and recovery solutions. This model supports a variety of services, including software as a service (SaaS), infrastructure as a service (IaaS), and platform as a service (PaaS), which address a range of business needs.

Choosing the remaining options reflects a more traditional approach to data management that does not utilize the advantages offered by cloud computing. Local servers, physical storage, and downloading software to local machines lack the agility and comprehensive accessibility that cloud computing provides. These methods often lead to higher costs and more difficulties in data management and collaboration when compared to cloud-based solutions.