ID Number: G00225972



Defining Cloud Computing
9 January 2012
 
Kyle Hilgendorf   Drue Reeves   Bob Blakley  

Cloud computing's on-demand, pay-as-you-go service model is transforming IT from massive, cumbersome, internal cost centers into agile, reactive, external services that are used not merely as business tools, but as the medium by which business is conducted. Unfortunately, marketing hype, unclear return on investment, and difficult risk/benefit analysis continue to hinder cloud adoption. Organizations that best understand cloud computing can take advantage of its strengths and mitigate its risks. In this management initiative, Gartner clarifies the discussion by defining cloud computing and its characteristics, architectural model, benefits, and shortcomings.





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Table of Contents

Contents
  • Synopsis
  • Analysis
    • Cloud Computing Benefits and Risks
    • Recommendations
  • Conclusion
  • Recommended Reading
Tables
Table 1.
Cloud Computing Benefits and Risks
Figures
Figure 1.
Three Tiers of Services Offered by the Cloud Architecture
Figure 2.
Cloud Deployment Models
Figure 3.
Cloud Services Value Chain Layer 1
Figure 4.
Cloud Services Value Chain Layer 2
Figure 5.
Cloud Services Value Chain Layer 3




Document History:
 
Defining Cloud Computing
9 January 2012
  
Defining Cloud Computing
25 March 2010
  




© 2012 Gartner, Inc. and/or its Affiliates. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction and distribution of this publication in any form without prior written permission is forbidden. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Gartner disclaims all warranties as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of such information. Although Gartner's research may discuss legal issues related to the information technology business, Gartner does not provide legal advice or services and its research should not be construed or used as such. Gartner shall have no liability for errors, omissions or inadequacies in the information contained herein or for interpretations thereof. The opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice.




Resource Id: 1891414