Cloud computing is the hottest topic in IT. It is virtually impossible to read a trade publication or
attend an IT conference and not be overwhelmed by discussions of the advantages and benefits
of cloud computing. In spite of all of the interest, there is still considerable confusion and
disagreement within the IT industry about the definition of cloud computing. The Cloud
Computing Journal, for example, published an article that included 21 definitions of cloud
computing. 1
Though there is confusion about the definition, the goal of cloud computing is quite clear – to
achieve an order of magnitude improvement in the cost-effective, elastic provisioning and
delivery of IT services.