For some time now, “the cloud” has been a trending topic—but what really is the cloud? A large number of companies already consider cloud computing in their strategies, while many others still have serious doubts about it due to a lack of understanding.

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What is the Cloud?

When we talk about “the cloud,” we are specifically referring to cloud computing. Cloud computing is a set of IT services delivered over a network such as the internet, allowing on-demand access to computing system resources. This means that capabilities like data storage or computing power are available without the need for direct management by the user.

The term is generally used to describe data centers accessible from anywhere through any internet-connected device. This enables the delivery of virtualized technology services that are often highly automated and can adapt relatively easily to variable demand.

The key benefits of a cloud environment include cost reduction, higher availability guarantees, and lower exposure to vulnerabilities. In exchange, whenever cloud services are not managed by the company itself, the common model is pay-per-use, which has become popular in recent years.

With this general framework in mind, to answer the initial question, it’s important to note that the concept of cloud is broad. In most cases, when we talk about a cloud service, we are referring (though not always) to Software as a Service (SaaS): a software distribution model in which applications are hosted by the service provider and made available over the internet. This eliminates the need to host software on the company’s own servers and usually includes the benefit of constant product updates.

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Types of Cloud

Although widely used, companies usually have three main questions about the cloud:

1. What is it?
2. What types of cloud exist?
3. Which is the best option for each case?

Having answered the first, let’s move on to the next two.

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Public Cloud

This cloud ecosystem is managed by third parties outside the company. The organization’s data is stored on the cloud provider’s servers, but only the company itself (and not other clients) can access it. In addition to storing the data, the cloud provider also manages the service and maintains the infrastructure.

This type of cloud can be useful for businesses of all sizes since, with the pay-per-use model, companies can scale services as needed—starting small and growing when required.

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Private Cloud

This is a dedicated cloud environment where both hardware and software are reserved for a single company. Security is enhanced thanks to greater control over risks, and the environment can be customized to meet specific business needs.

Private clouds are typically used by large enterprises that require high levels of security or must comply with strict regulations (for example, when handling sensitive data).

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Hybrid Cloud

As its name suggests, the hybrid cloud combines the advantages of both public and private models. It is used when a company needs additional resources beyond what its private cloud or local infrastructure can handle, extending workloads into a public cloud. For example, during a temporary workload spike, capacity can be increased without making a permanent infrastructure investment.

The main advantage is flexibility: by maintaining a private infrastructure, companies can still rely on the security and control of a private model, while leveraging the scalability and cost-saving benefits of the public cloud’s pay-per-use model.