ITIL 4 Foundation Practice Exam

What best describes cloud computing?

1. A service delivery model for on-premises resources

2. A model for enabling on-demand network access to shared computing resources

3. A virtual environment for local data storage

4. A framework for enhancing network security

The correct answer is: A model for enabling on-demand network access to shared computing resources

Cloud computing is best described as a model for enabling on-demand network access to shared computing resources. This definition captures the essence of what cloud computing encompasses, highlighting the critical features of resource accessibility and shared usage. In cloud computing, resources such as servers, storage, applications, and services are provided over the internet, facilitating easy and scalable access for users on an as-needed basis. This means that users do not need to invest in and maintain physical infrastructure; instead, they can utilize virtual resources that can be scaled up or down depending on their requirements. Furthermore, the cloud computing model often includes a pay-as-you-go pricing structure, which allows organizations to optimize their costs effectively based on their usage. It supports a wide range of applications, from data storage and processing to complex services like machine learning and AI. By focusing on the on-demand nature and shared access, this description encapsulates the fundamental characteristics of cloud computing, distinguishing it from traditional models that may involve more rigid and local resource management.