Cloud server
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
- Flexibility. A client can always add more resources such as memory or storage, if a need arises.
- 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.
- Reliability. Many providers offer backup and recovery options, ensuring data safety.
- Quick setup. Setting up a cloud server is often faster than buying and installing a physical server.
Cloud server alternatives
- 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.
- 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.
- Shared hosting. The server is managed by a hosting provider, while the client is sharing the server’s resources with other users.