Cloud computing provides on-demand access to computing resources like servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics and more over the Internet. Key aspects of cloud computing include computation, software, data storage and retrieval. While an internet connection is required, users don't need to know details about the underlying infrastructure. The cloud offers advantages like scalability, low upfront costs and minimal maintenance compared to traditional on-premise systems.

2. Computation

3. Software

4. Data Storage and Retrieval

6. What operating system do they run?

7. Where are the computer resources? Don't Know. Don't Care!

9. Previously the domain of supercomputers costing millions

10. Now available to rent for a few dollars per hour

12. Often described as SaaS or Software as a Service

14. Google Documents

15. MailChimp

16. Zoho business suite

18. Some systems have guaranteed backups

19. Some systems store the data in encrypted form

20. Not to be seen as a hard drive replacement - works best for moderate amounts of data

22. MegaFileUpload

23. Microsoft SkyDrive

24. Amazon AWS simple storage

26. Cloud providers can (and do) break down occasionally http://eu.techcrunch.com/2011/04/21/amazon-ec2-goes-down-taking-with-it-reddit-foursquare-and-quora/

27. Legal and Privacy concerns

29. Most technical aspects are handled by cloud provider

30. You don't need to worry about updating software or licenses.... ever

31. Modest computer and web browser is all you need. Smartphone may even be enough!

33. Typically much cheaper than buying/maintaining traditional hardware/software