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Cloud server

Cloud server definition

Cloud server refers to a virtual server that runs in a cloud computing environment. It is built, hosted, and delivered over the internet, and can be accessed remotely. Cloud servers possess similar capabilities and functions as a traditional physical server but are provided to users on a pay-as-you-go or subscription basis.

See also: cloud security posture management, cloud vps, network administrator, data center storage, data center virtualization

Cloud server benefits

  1. 1.Flexibility. A client can always add more resources such as memory or storage, if a need arises.
  2. 2.Cost effectiveness. A person or a company is paying only for the storage they’re using, allowing them to avoid the costs of buying and maintaining physical servers.
  3. 3.Reliability. Many providers offer backup and recovery options, ensuring data safety.
  4. 4.Quick setup. Setting up a cloud server is often faster than buying and installing a physical server.

Cloud server alternatives

  1. 1.Physical server. The client owns the server, but is also responsible for maintenance, updates, and backups. Long-term, owning a physical server can be cheaper than paying for a cloud server on a monthly basis.
  2. 2.Dedicated hosting. The server is located in a data center and managed by a hosting provider that maintains the server. Usually, a client pays the same regardless of the data used.
  3. 3.Shared hosting. The server is managed by a hosting provider, while the client is sharing the server’s resources with other users.