One key point from the NIST Special Publication 800-145, titled “The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing,” is the clarity it brings to the essential characteristics of cloud computing. Specifically, it defines five core attributes that are fundamental to cloud services: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. These characteristics emphasize the flexibility and scalability of cloud computing, providing users the ability to access computing resources as needed without extensive human intervention or management by the provider.
This framework provides a clear and standardized way to evaluate and compare various cloud service offerings, allowing organizations to make more informed decisions when selecting cloud solutions that align with their operational needs. The inclusion of “measured service” is particularly important, as it introduces transparency and accountability, ensuring that both the provider and the consumer can monitor and manage resource usage, which is essential for cost management and ensuring optimal use of resources. This definition is crucial for shaping cloud adoption strategies and understanding how to best leverage cloud technology for various business needs.
Key points: NIST’s definition and importance of cloud computing. Cloud computing has five basic characteristics: on-demand self-service, extensive network access, resource pooling, fast resilience, and measurable services. These features together form the core of cloud computing, enabling it to provide convenient, on-demand network access, as well as computing resources that can be rapidly expanded and reduced. There are three service models: Software as a Service, Platform as a Service, and Infrastructure as a Service, as well as four deployment models: Private Cloud, Community Cloud, Public Cloud, and Hybrid Cloud. These models provide flexible choices for users with different needs to adapt to different business scenarios and security requirements.
Through these definitions and models, we can understand how cloud computing provides users with flexible and scalable computing resources through standardization and abstraction, while reducing management costs and complexity.
In NIST 800 145, a key point is NIST’s definition of cloud computing. NIST defines cloud computing as a model that enables anytime, anywhere access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (such as networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) over the network that can be quickly configured and released and managed with little effort or interaction with service providers. This definition highlights the five essential characteristics of cloud computing: on-demand self-service, extensive network access, resource pooling, fast resilience, and on-demand metered services. Together, these characteristics form the core of cloud computing, making it a model capable of providing flexible, scalable, and cost-effective computing services.
In addition, there are three service models: Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and four deployment models: private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, and hybrid cloud. These models and services provide different use scenarios and deployment options for cloud computing to meet the needs of different organizations and users.Through these definitions and models, we can see the flexibility and diversity of cloud computing, which not only changes the way IT resources are acquired and used, but also provides users with more efficient and cost-effective computing solutions. This model is particularly suitable for scenarios where resources need to be rapidly scaled to meet changing business needs, while also providing users with the convenience of using resources on demand, thereby reducing IT operational costs.
After delving into the NIST 800-145 document, I have a deep understanding of one of the key definitions of cloud computing, namely the five core characteristics of cloud computing: on-demand self-service, extensive network access, resource pooling, fast resilience, and measurable service.
In my opinion, these five characteristics together constitute the unique value proposition of cloud computing. On-demand self-service means that users can obtain the required resources at any time according to their own needs, which greatly improves the efficiency of resource utilization. Extensive network access ensures the popularity and convenience of cloud computing services, and users can access services anytime and anywhere through a variety of terminal devices. Resource pooling integrates different physical and virtual resources to form a unified resource pool, realizing dynamic resource allocation and optimal management. Fast elasticity enables cloud computing services to respond quickly to business changes and meet the unexpected needs of users. Measurable services provide clear metering and billing methods for service providers and users, ensuring transparency and fairness of services.
These five characteristics not only define the basic form of cloud computing, but also lay a solid foundation for its wide application in various industries. In the future, with the continuous progress of technology and the continuous expansion of application scenarios, cloud computing will continue to play its unique advantages and provide strong support for digital transformation and intelligent upgrading.
Essential characteristics that define cloud computing.
These five characteristics serve as the foundation for understanding and distinguishing cloud services from traditional IT models:
1.On-demand self-service: This characteristic highlights the core benefit of cloud computing – the ability for users to access and utilize resources without human intervention. This self-service model empowers users and eliminates the need for manual provisioning, leading to increased agility and efficiency.
2.Broad network access: Cloud services are accessible from anywhere, using any device with network connectivity. This accessibility breaks the traditional geographical restrictions, enabling people to work, study and play anytime and anywhere.
3.Resource pooling: Cloud providers utilize shared resources to serve multiple customers. This pooling allows for efficient resource allocation and utilization, leading to cost savings and improved performance.
4.Rapid elasticity: Cloud resources can be scaled up or down quickly and automatically based on demand. This flexibility enables organizations to respond to changing needs without the burden of managing and provisioning additional hardware.
5.Measured service: Cloud usage is tracked and billed based on actual consumption. This pay-as-you-go model provides cost transparency and eliminates the need for upfront investments in hardware and software.
Understanding these essential characteristics is crucial for both consumers and providers of cloud services. Consumers can use them to evaluate different cloud offerings and determine which ones best meet their needs. Providers can use them to ensure their services align with the core principles of cloud computing and differentiate themselves in the market.
Furthermore, the document emphasizes that these characteristics are interdependent and collectively define cloud computing. This understanding is essential for effectively leveraging cloud services and realizing the full potential of this transformative technology.
One key point: The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing is the five essential characteristics of cloud computing, which define the fundamental properties that distinguish cloud environments from traditional IT infrastructures. These characteristics—on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service—enable organizations to achieve scalability, cost efficiency, and operational flexibility.
Among these, rapid elasticity stands out as a crucial feature, allowing cloud resources to scale up or down automatically based on demand. This capability ensures that organizations only pay for the resources they use, improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Unlike traditional infrastructure, where provisioning new resources can take weeks or months, cloud computing enables near-instantaneous scaling, making it ideal for dynamic workloads such as web applications, data analytics, and AI processing.
This elasticity, combined with measured service, where resource usage is automatically monitored and optimized, provides a transparent, consumption-based pricing model. It allows businesses to plan their IT spending more effectively while ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently. However, this also raises security and governance concerns, as organizations must implement robust monitoring, access control, and compliance frameworks to prevent unauthorized usage and data exposure in cloud environments.
A key point is the definition of cloud computing and the elaboration of related models. The definition clarifies five essential characteristics, three service models, and four deployment models of cloud computing. These contents provide a clear framework for understanding cloud computing and are of great significance to system planners and other relevant personnel. The essential characteristics reflect the convenient, efficient, and flexible features of cloud computing, which are its advantages. The service models distinguish different levels of service offerings, enabling users to select appropriate services according to their needs. The deployment models, from the perspectives of usage scope and ownership, present multiple options, each with its applicable scenarios. Overall, this definition helps relevant personnel accurately grasp the essence of cloud computing and rationally plan and utilize cloud computing services.
The report details five fundamental characteristics of cloud computing: on-demand self-service, extensive network access, resource pooling, fast elastic scaling, and measurable services. In addition, three service models are defined: Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), as well as four deployment models: private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, and hybrid cloud. These models constitute a simple taxonomy designed to provide a baseline for cloud computing discussions, rather than limiting specific deployments or business operations. The target audience for the report includes system planners, project managers, technical experts, and consumers and providers of cloud computing.
Based on Chapter 4 “Secure Networks” from “Corporate Computer Security” by Raymond R. Panko and Randall Boyle, one key point that struck me is the importance of a multi-faceted approach to securing networks.
The chapter emphasizes that creating secure networks involves more than just preventing unauthorized access; it also includes ensuring network availability, confidentiality, and functionality. Each of these goals requires different strategies and technologies.
For example, to ensure network availability, companies need to protect against denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, which can cripple networks by overwhelming them with traffic. This requires implementing measures such as intrusion detection systems and firewalls that can detect and mitigate such attacks.
Maintaining confidentiality involves preventing unauthorized users from gaining information about the network’s structure, data flowing across it, or protocols used. Encryption plays a critical role here, as it ensures that data is unreadable to eavesdroppers. However, the chapter also notes that encryption alone is not sufficient; access control mechanisms must also be in place to restrict who can access the network and what they can do once they are in.
Functionality, on the other hand, refers to ensuring that the network operates as intended, without being altered or disrupted by attackers. This requires implementing network segmentation, intrusion prevention systems, and other controls to prevent attacks like ARP poisoning that can reroute network traffic or alter its functionality.
Due to the computer crash, the above answer is incorrect. The correct answer is as follows:
Based on the reading of NIST Special Publication 800-145, “The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing,” one key point that stands out to me is the comprehensive and nuanced definition provided for cloud computing.
The NIST definition characterizes cloud computing as a model that enables ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources. These resources can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction. The definition further breaks down cloud computing into five essential characteristics: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service.
What is particularly noteworthy about the NIST definition is its thoroughness and the way it captures the multifaceted nature of cloud computing. By highlighting these five essential characteristics, the definition provides a clear and concise framework for understanding what constitutes cloud computing. Each characteristic serves as a critical aspect of the cloud model, contributing to its flexibility, scalability, and efficiency.
Core Attributes of Cloud Computing：NIST Special Publication 800 – 145 defines five fundamental attributes of cloud computing: on – demand self – service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. These attributes highlight the flexibility and scalability of cloud services, enabling users to access computing resources as required without much provider – side human intervention.
Framework for Evaluation and Decision – making：The publication offers a clear and standardized framework for evaluating and comparing different cloud service offerings. This allows organizations to make more informed decisions when choosing cloud solutions that match their operational requirements.
Significance of “Measured Service”：The “measured service” attribute is of particular importance. It brings transparency and accountability, as both providers and consumers can monitor and manage resource usage. This is essential for cost management and ensuring the optimal utilization of resources, playing a crucial role in shaping cloud adoption strategies and leveraging cloud technology for business needs.
Having studied the NIST 800-145 document, I’ve grasped a crucial aspect of cloud computing’s definition, specifically its five core characteristics: on-demand self-service, extensive network access, resource pooling, fast resilience, and measurable service. These characteristics collectively form the distinctive value of cloud computing. On-demand self-service allows users to acquire resources promptly as per their requirements, enhancing resource utilization efficiency. Extensive network access ensures cloud services are accessible and convenient, enabling users to connect via diverse devices from anywhere. Resource pooling combines physical and virtual resources into a unified pool, facilitating dynamic allocation and optimal management. Fast elasticity enables cloud services to quickly adapt to business fluctuations and meet users’ unforeseen demands. Measurable services offer clear metering and billing, ensuring service transparency and fairness. These five features not only outline the fundamental nature of cloud computing but also serve as a strong basis for its widespread adoption across industries. As technology advances and application scenarios expand, cloud computing will keep leveraging its unique strengths to power digital transformation and intelligent development.
A key point is that cloud computing is defined by NIST as a model enabling on – demand network access to shared, configurable computing resources. It has five essential characteristics (on – demand self – service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service), three service models (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS), and four deployment models (private, community, public, hybrid). This definition serves as a basis for comparing cloud services and deployment strategies, and is useful for system planners, program managers, and technologists involved in cloud computing.
One of the things that struck me the most about this article is the “five essential characteristics of cloud computing.” These characteristics define the core value of cloud computing and are key to the difference between cloud computing and traditional computing models. The details include:
1. On-demand self-service: Users can automatically obtain computing power on demand without human interaction.
2, a wide range of network access: through the network to provide services, support a variety of device access.
3. Resource pooling: Resources are pooled and dynamically allocated to multiple users.
4, fast elasticity: resources can be rapidly expanded or reduced to adapt to changes in demand.
5, measurable services: Resource usage can be monitored and reported to achieve transparent management.
Together, these features constitute the core advantages of cloud computing, enabling the cloud to quickly provide and adjust resources on demand, while achieving efficient use of resources through metering and management. In practice, these features help organizations achieve flexible resource allocation, reduce operating costs, and improve business agility and competitiveness.
Key Point: Comprehensive Definition and Taxonomy
1. Detailed Characteristics, Service Models, and Deployment Models:
– The document provides a detailed definition of cloud computing, outlining five essential characteristics (on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service) that are fundamental to understanding cloud computing.
2. Purpose and Scope:
– The primary purpose of this definition is to facilitate comparisons of cloud services and deployment strategies, and to provide a baseline for discussions on what constitutes cloud computing and how to best use it. This makes it a valuable tool for system planners, program managers, technologists, and other stakeholders adopting cloud computing.
3. Audience and Application:
– The intended audience includes both consumers and providers of cloud services, making it a versatile guide for various stakeholders in the cloud ecosystem. The document emphasizes its applicability to federal agencies but also notes that non-governmental organizations can use it voluntarily.
The NIST definition of cloud computing provides a clear framework for understanding and comparing cloud services and deployment strategies. It emphasizes the importance of essential characteristics such as on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. The service models (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS) and deployment models (private, community, public, hybrid) offer a taxonomy for classifying cloud computing offerings. This publication serves as a foundational reference for federal agencies and other organizations looking to adopt cloud computing in a secure and cost-effective manner.
NIST Special Publication 800 – 145 defines cloud computing, highlighting its five core attributes: on – demand self – service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. These characteristics emphasize cloud computing’s flexibility and scalability, enabling users to access resources as needed with little provider intervention. The “measured service” aspect is crucial for transparency and accountability in resource usage management. Additionally, there are three service models (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS) and four deployment models (private, community, public, hybrid cloud), offering diverse use cases and deployment options to meet various organizational and user needs. Overall, cloud computing changes the way IT resources are acquired and used, providing efficient and cost – effective solutions, especially suitable for scenarios requiring rapid resource scaling and on – demand usage.
one impressive aspect is the clear -cut five essential characyeristics of cloud computing on :demand self,board network access,resource pooling,rapid elasticity,and measured service. these charayeristics precisely define what cloud computing is, guiding organizations in adoption. for example,rapid elasticity allows companies to scale resources up or down ,saving costs.another point is its standardization efforts,which help in ensuring interoperability and portability across different cloud providers.
One key point from the NIST Special Publication 800-145, The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing, is the clear definition of five essential characteristics that distinguish cloud computing from traditional IT infrastructures. These characteristics—on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service—provide the flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency that cloud services offer.
Rapid elasticity stands out as a critical feature, allowing resources to scale up or down automatically based on demand, ensuring organizations only pay for what they use. This is in contrast to traditional infrastructures where provisioning resources can take weeks or months. With cloud computing, resources can be scaled nearly instantly, which is ideal for dynamic workloads such as web applications and AI processing.
The concept of measured service is also crucial, as it introduces a consumption-based pricing model where resource usage is monitored and optimized. This enhances cost-effectiveness and transparency, allowing businesses to better manage IT spending. However, this flexibility brings security and governance challenges, requiring strong monitoring, access control, and compliance measures to prevent unauthorized use and ensure data protection in the cloud.
NIST Special Publication 800-145 provides a clear definition of cloud computing, breaking it down into five essential characteristics (on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service), three service models (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS), and four deployment models (private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, hybrid cloud). This framework offers a foundational understanding of cloud computing, helping users select appropriate services and deployment models based on their needs. It emphasizes the flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency of cloud computing, making it a valuable resource for both consumers and providers.
A key point from the document is the NIST definition of cloud computing, which describes it as a model for enabling ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction.
This model is characterized by five essential features: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service.
Additionally, it outlines three service models (Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)) and four deployment models (private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, and hybrid cloud).
Cloud computing is defined by five essential characteristics: on – demand self – service allowing users to access resources without human help for increased agility, broad network access enabling access from any device anywhere breaking geographical bounds, resource pooling by providers for efficient resource use and cost savings, rapid elasticity to scale resources up or down automatically with demand, and measured service where usage is tracked and billed based on actual consumption; understanding these, which are interdependent, is crucial for both cloud service consumers to evaluate offerings and providers to align services with cloud principles and stand out in the market, as it helps in effectively leveraging cloud services to realize its full potential.
A crucial insight from NIST Special Publication 800 – 145, “The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing,” lies in its elucidation of cloud computing’s essential features. It pinpoints five core attributes central to cloud services: on – demand self – service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. These characteristics underscore the flexibility and scalability inherent in cloud computing. They empower users to obtain computing resources whenever required, with minimal need for human intervention from the provider and without complex management processes.
This framework offers a distinct and standardized approach to assess and contrast different cloud service offerings. It enables organizations to make more well – informed choices when choosing cloud solutions that match their operational requirements. Notably, the “measured service” attribute holds particular significance. It brings transparency and accountability to the forefront, enabling both the provider and the consumer to monitor and manage resource utilization. This is vital for effective cost management and for ensuring resources are used optimally. In essence, this definition plays a critical role in formulating cloud adoption strategies and in grasping how to most effectively utilize cloud technology to meet diverse business demands.
NIST SP 800-145 defines cloud computing as a model enabling ubiquitous, on-demand network access to shared, configurable computing resources that are rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort. The framework outlines five essential characteristics—on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service—to distinguish cloud computing from traditional IT models. It also categorizes cloud services into three models: Software as a Service (SaaS), where users access applications over the internet without managing infrastructure; Platform as a Service (PaaS), which provides tools for deploying custom applications; and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), offering raw computing resources like virtual machines and storage. Additionally, the publication identifies four deployment models: private, community, public (open to the general public), and hybrid (a combination of two or more models). This definition helps organizations evaluate cloud offerings, align them with operational requirements, and address security and compliance considerations by clarifying service ownership, control, and scalability.
One of the things that struck me the most in this article was the “five fundamental characteristics” of cloud computing. These characteristics not only define the core value of cloud computing, but also differentiate cloud computing from traditional computing models, specifically as follows:
On-demand self-service: Users can automatically obtain computing power according to their needs without human intervention. For example, an e-commerce enterprise during the promotion activities, business volume increases sharply, through the cloud computing platform, can independently and quickly increase server resources, improve the processing capacity of the website, in order to cope with a large number of user access requests, to ensure the smooth shopping process, to avoid the phenomenon of delays or crashes. This feature greatly improves the timeliness and autonomy of resource acquisition, allowing enterprises to flexibly respond to business dynamics.
Extensive network access: Provide services over the network and support multiple device access. Whether it is an office computer, smartphone or tablet, users can easily use cloud services as long as they are connected to the network. Take cloud storage service as an example, users can upload important files in the office computer, download and view them at any time and anywhere on the way home through mobile phones after work, breaking the restrictions of devices and regions, realizing seamless connection and convenient sharing of information, and greatly improving the user experience.
Resource pooling: Resources are consolidated in a centralized manner and dynamically allocated to multiple users. A cloud computing provider aggregates a large number of physical and virtual resources, such as servers, storage devices, and network bandwidth, into a resource pool. Different enterprises or users obtain resources from the resource pool based on their service requirements. For example, multiple small enterprises share computing resources on the same cloud platform. During off-peak hours, resources can be flexibly deployed to other users with requirements. In the peak period of business, it can dynamically allocate resources according to the actual needs of each enterprise to maximize the utilization of resources and avoid idle and waste of resources.
Rapid resilience: The ability of resources to expand or shrink rapidly to accommodate changes in demand. In some unexpected cases, such as a hot topic on a social media platform that causes a large number of users to visit at the same time, the platform can increase server resources instantaneously with the help of the fast elasticity of cloud computing to meet users’ access needs. When the heat dissipates, resource allocation can be reduced in time to reduce operating costs. This ability to quickly respond to changes in demand enables enterprises to quickly adjust resource investment and enhance business flexibility and competitiveness in the face of complex and changing market environments.
Measurable services: Resource usage can be monitored and reported for transparent management. Cloud service providers use technologies to monitor users’ resource usage in real time, such as computing resource usage duration, storage capacity, and network bandwidth consumption, and generate detailed reports. Users can get a clear picture of their resource usage, and use the report to control costs and optimize their business. At the same time, it also helps cloud service providers to set reasonable prices and ensure fairness and transparency of services. For example, an enterprise can analyze which business modules consume more resources based on resource usage reports to optimize business processes and improve resource utilization efficiency.
In NIST SP 800-145, “on – demand self – service” is a key feature of cloud computing. It lets users automatically deploy and manage resources based on their needs, without manual interaction with the service provider. This model boosts resource efficiency, speeds up business response, and cuts IT costs, letting businesses focus more on core innovation. Yet, while enjoying these benefits, enterprises must pay attention to security and compliance, devising proper strategies to ensure the safe and effective use of cloud computing resources.
A key point from the reading is the NIST definition of cloud computing, which highlights its essential characteristics: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. This definition emphasizes how cloud computing enables users to access and manage resources (like storage, processing power, and applications) with minimal interaction from service providers. The shift to cloud computing also brings flexibility for users to scale their computing needs efficiently. The five essential characteristics form the foundation for distinguishing cloud services and understanding how businesses can use them effectively, making it a crucial part of modern IT infrastructure.
The NIST Special Publication 800-145 provides an authoritative definition of cloud computing. It describes cloud computing as a model that enables on-demand access to a shared pool of computing resources over a network, characterized by five essential features: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service.
The document also outlines three primary service models: Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), which differ in the level of control and resource utilization they offer to users. Additionally, it defines four deployment models: private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, and hybrid cloud, each catering to different organizational needs and security requirements.
Aimed at system planners, technologists, and cloud service providers and consumers, this publication offers a common framework for discussing, comparing, and deploying cloud computing solutions while emphasizing the flexibility to accommodate various implementation methods.
A key insight from NIST Special Publication 800-145, The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing is its clear framework for understanding the essential characteristics of cloud computing. The publication outlines five fundamental attributes that define cloud services:
On-demand self-service – Users can access computing resources as needed without requiring manual intervention from service providers.
Broad network access – Cloud services are available over the network, ensuring accessibility across various devices and locations.
Resource pooling – Computing resources are dynamically allocated and shared among multiple users to optimize efficiency.
Rapid elasticity – Resources can be scaled up or down quickly to meet fluctuating demands.
Measured service – Resource usage is transparently monitored and billed, allowing for cost efficiency and accountability.
The NIST Special Publication 800-145, “The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing,” highlights the essential characteristics of cloud computing with clarity. It outlines five key attributes of cloud services: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. These attributes underscore the flexibility and scalability of cloud computing, enabling users to access computing resources as required, with minimal manual intervention or provider management.
This framework offers a standardized approach for evaluating and comparing cloud services, aiding organizations in making informed choices that match their operational requirements. The inclusion of “measured service” is especially significant, as it ensures transparency and accountability, allowing both providers and consumers to monitor and manage resource usage effectively. This is vital for cost management and optimal resource utilization. The definition is pivotal for developing cloud adoption strategies and maximizing the benefits of cloud technology for business requirements.
One key point from the NIST Special Publication 800-145, titled “The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing,” is the clarity it brings to the essential characteristics of cloud computing. Specifically, it defines five core attributes that are fundamental to cloud services: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. These characteristics emphasize the flexibility and scalability of cloud computing, providing users the ability to access computing resources as needed without extensive human intervention or management by the provider.
This framework provides a clear and standardized way to evaluate and compare various cloud service offerings, allowing organizations to make more informed decisions when selecting cloud solutions that align with their operational needs. The inclusion of “measured service” is particularly important, as it introduces transparency and accountability, ensuring that both the provider and the consumer can monitor and manage resource usage, which is essential for cost management and ensuring optimal use of resources. This definition is crucial for shaping cloud adoption strategies and understanding how to best leverage cloud technology for various business needs.
Key points: NIST’s definition and importance of cloud computing. Cloud computing has five basic characteristics: on-demand self-service, extensive network access, resource pooling, fast resilience, and measurable services. These features together form the core of cloud computing, enabling it to provide convenient, on-demand network access, as well as computing resources that can be rapidly expanded and reduced. There are three service models: Software as a Service, Platform as a Service, and Infrastructure as a Service, as well as four deployment models: Private Cloud, Community Cloud, Public Cloud, and Hybrid Cloud. These models provide flexible choices for users with different needs to adapt to different business scenarios and security requirements.
Through these definitions and models, we can understand how cloud computing provides users with flexible and scalable computing resources through standardization and abstraction, while reducing management costs and complexity.
In NIST 800 145, a key point is NIST’s definition of cloud computing. NIST defines cloud computing as a model that enables anytime, anywhere access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (such as networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) over the network that can be quickly configured and released and managed with little effort or interaction with service providers. This definition highlights the five essential characteristics of cloud computing: on-demand self-service, extensive network access, resource pooling, fast resilience, and on-demand metered services. Together, these characteristics form the core of cloud computing, making it a model capable of providing flexible, scalable, and cost-effective computing services.
In addition, there are three service models: Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and four deployment models: private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, and hybrid cloud. These models and services provide different use scenarios and deployment options for cloud computing to meet the needs of different organizations and users.Through these definitions and models, we can see the flexibility and diversity of cloud computing, which not only changes the way IT resources are acquired and used, but also provides users with more efficient and cost-effective computing solutions. This model is particularly suitable for scenarios where resources need to be rapidly scaled to meet changing business needs, while also providing users with the convenience of using resources on demand, thereby reducing IT operational costs.
After delving into the NIST 800-145 document, I have a deep understanding of one of the key definitions of cloud computing, namely the five core characteristics of cloud computing: on-demand self-service, extensive network access, resource pooling, fast resilience, and measurable service.
In my opinion, these five characteristics together constitute the unique value proposition of cloud computing. On-demand self-service means that users can obtain the required resources at any time according to their own needs, which greatly improves the efficiency of resource utilization. Extensive network access ensures the popularity and convenience of cloud computing services, and users can access services anytime and anywhere through a variety of terminal devices. Resource pooling integrates different physical and virtual resources to form a unified resource pool, realizing dynamic resource allocation and optimal management. Fast elasticity enables cloud computing services to respond quickly to business changes and meet the unexpected needs of users. Measurable services provide clear metering and billing methods for service providers and users, ensuring transparency and fairness of services.
These five characteristics not only define the basic form of cloud computing, but also lay a solid foundation for its wide application in various industries. In the future, with the continuous progress of technology and the continuous expansion of application scenarios, cloud computing will continue to play its unique advantages and provide strong support for digital transformation and intelligent upgrading.
Essential characteristics that define cloud computing.
These five characteristics serve as the foundation for understanding and distinguishing cloud services from traditional IT models:
1.On-demand self-service: This characteristic highlights the core benefit of cloud computing – the ability for users to access and utilize resources without human intervention. This self-service model empowers users and eliminates the need for manual provisioning, leading to increased agility and efficiency.
2.Broad network access: Cloud services are accessible from anywhere, using any device with network connectivity. This accessibility breaks the traditional geographical restrictions, enabling people to work, study and play anytime and anywhere.
3.Resource pooling: Cloud providers utilize shared resources to serve multiple customers. This pooling allows for efficient resource allocation and utilization, leading to cost savings and improved performance.
4.Rapid elasticity: Cloud resources can be scaled up or down quickly and automatically based on demand. This flexibility enables organizations to respond to changing needs without the burden of managing and provisioning additional hardware.
5.Measured service: Cloud usage is tracked and billed based on actual consumption. This pay-as-you-go model provides cost transparency and eliminates the need for upfront investments in hardware and software.
Understanding these essential characteristics is crucial for both consumers and providers of cloud services. Consumers can use them to evaluate different cloud offerings and determine which ones best meet their needs. Providers can use them to ensure their services align with the core principles of cloud computing and differentiate themselves in the market.
Furthermore, the document emphasizes that these characteristics are interdependent and collectively define cloud computing. This understanding is essential for effectively leveraging cloud services and realizing the full potential of this transformative technology.
One key point: The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing is the five essential characteristics of cloud computing, which define the fundamental properties that distinguish cloud environments from traditional IT infrastructures. These characteristics—on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service—enable organizations to achieve scalability, cost efficiency, and operational flexibility.
Among these, rapid elasticity stands out as a crucial feature, allowing cloud resources to scale up or down automatically based on demand. This capability ensures that organizations only pay for the resources they use, improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Unlike traditional infrastructure, where provisioning new resources can take weeks or months, cloud computing enables near-instantaneous scaling, making it ideal for dynamic workloads such as web applications, data analytics, and AI processing.
This elasticity, combined with measured service, where resource usage is automatically monitored and optimized, provides a transparent, consumption-based pricing model. It allows businesses to plan their IT spending more effectively while ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently. However, this also raises security and governance concerns, as organizations must implement robust monitoring, access control, and compliance frameworks to prevent unauthorized usage and data exposure in cloud environments.
A key point is the definition of cloud computing and the elaboration of related models. The definition clarifies five essential characteristics, three service models, and four deployment models of cloud computing. These contents provide a clear framework for understanding cloud computing and are of great significance to system planners and other relevant personnel. The essential characteristics reflect the convenient, efficient, and flexible features of cloud computing, which are its advantages. The service models distinguish different levels of service offerings, enabling users to select appropriate services according to their needs. The deployment models, from the perspectives of usage scope and ownership, present multiple options, each with its applicable scenarios. Overall, this definition helps relevant personnel accurately grasp the essence of cloud computing and rationally plan and utilize cloud computing services.
The report details five fundamental characteristics of cloud computing: on-demand self-service, extensive network access, resource pooling, fast elastic scaling, and measurable services. In addition, three service models are defined: Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), as well as four deployment models: private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, and hybrid cloud. These models constitute a simple taxonomy designed to provide a baseline for cloud computing discussions, rather than limiting specific deployments or business operations. The target audience for the report includes system planners, project managers, technical experts, and consumers and providers of cloud computing.
Based on Chapter 4 “Secure Networks” from “Corporate Computer Security” by Raymond R. Panko and Randall Boyle, one key point that struck me is the importance of a multi-faceted approach to securing networks.
The chapter emphasizes that creating secure networks involves more than just preventing unauthorized access; it also includes ensuring network availability, confidentiality, and functionality. Each of these goals requires different strategies and technologies.
For example, to ensure network availability, companies need to protect against denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, which can cripple networks by overwhelming them with traffic. This requires implementing measures such as intrusion detection systems and firewalls that can detect and mitigate such attacks.
Maintaining confidentiality involves preventing unauthorized users from gaining information about the network’s structure, data flowing across it, or protocols used. Encryption plays a critical role here, as it ensures that data is unreadable to eavesdroppers. However, the chapter also notes that encryption alone is not sufficient; access control mechanisms must also be in place to restrict who can access the network and what they can do once they are in.
Functionality, on the other hand, refers to ensuring that the network operates as intended, without being altered or disrupted by attackers. This requires implementing network segmentation, intrusion prevention systems, and other controls to prevent attacks like ARP poisoning that can reroute network traffic or alter its functionality.
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Based on the reading of NIST Special Publication 800-145, “The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing,” one key point that stands out to me is the comprehensive and nuanced definition provided for cloud computing.
The NIST definition characterizes cloud computing as a model that enables ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources. These resources can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction. The definition further breaks down cloud computing into five essential characteristics: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service.
What is particularly noteworthy about the NIST definition is its thoroughness and the way it captures the multifaceted nature of cloud computing. By highlighting these five essential characteristics, the definition provides a clear and concise framework for understanding what constitutes cloud computing. Each characteristic serves as a critical aspect of the cloud model, contributing to its flexibility, scalability, and efficiency.
Core Attributes of Cloud Computing：NIST Special Publication 800 – 145 defines five fundamental attributes of cloud computing: on – demand self – service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. These attributes highlight the flexibility and scalability of cloud services, enabling users to access computing resources as required without much provider – side human intervention.
Framework for Evaluation and Decision – making：The publication offers a clear and standardized framework for evaluating and comparing different cloud service offerings. This allows organizations to make more informed decisions when choosing cloud solutions that match their operational requirements.
Significance of “Measured Service”：The “measured service” attribute is of particular importance. It brings transparency and accountability, as both providers and consumers can monitor and manage resource usage. This is essential for cost management and ensuring the optimal utilization of resources, playing a crucial role in shaping cloud adoption strategies and leveraging cloud technology for business needs.
Having studied the NIST 800-145 document, I’ve grasped a crucial aspect of cloud computing’s definition, specifically its five core characteristics: on-demand self-service, extensive network access, resource pooling, fast resilience, and measurable service. These characteristics collectively form the distinctive value of cloud computing. On-demand self-service allows users to acquire resources promptly as per their requirements, enhancing resource utilization efficiency. Extensive network access ensures cloud services are accessible and convenient, enabling users to connect via diverse devices from anywhere. Resource pooling combines physical and virtual resources into a unified pool, facilitating dynamic allocation and optimal management. Fast elasticity enables cloud services to quickly adapt to business fluctuations and meet users’ unforeseen demands. Measurable services offer clear metering and billing, ensuring service transparency and fairness. These five features not only outline the fundamental nature of cloud computing but also serve as a strong basis for its widespread adoption across industries. As technology advances and application scenarios expand, cloud computing will keep leveraging its unique strengths to power digital transformation and intelligent development.
A key point is that cloud computing is defined by NIST as a model enabling on – demand network access to shared, configurable computing resources. It has five essential characteristics (on – demand self – service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service), three service models (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS), and four deployment models (private, community, public, hybrid). This definition serves as a basis for comparing cloud services and deployment strategies, and is useful for system planners, program managers, and technologists involved in cloud computing.
One of the things that struck me the most about this article is the “five essential characteristics of cloud computing.” These characteristics define the core value of cloud computing and are key to the difference between cloud computing and traditional computing models. The details include:
1. On-demand self-service: Users can automatically obtain computing power on demand without human interaction.
2, a wide range of network access: through the network to provide services, support a variety of device access.
3. Resource pooling: Resources are pooled and dynamically allocated to multiple users.
4, fast elasticity: resources can be rapidly expanded or reduced to adapt to changes in demand.
5, measurable services: Resource usage can be monitored and reported to achieve transparent management.
Together, these features constitute the core advantages of cloud computing, enabling the cloud to quickly provide and adjust resources on demand, while achieving efficient use of resources through metering and management. In practice, these features help organizations achieve flexible resource allocation, reduce operating costs, and improve business agility and competitiveness.
Key Point: Comprehensive Definition and Taxonomy
1. Detailed Characteristics, Service Models, and Deployment Models:
– The document provides a detailed definition of cloud computing, outlining five essential characteristics (on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service) that are fundamental to understanding cloud computing.
2. Purpose and Scope:
– The primary purpose of this definition is to facilitate comparisons of cloud services and deployment strategies, and to provide a baseline for discussions on what constitutes cloud computing and how to best use it. This makes it a valuable tool for system planners, program managers, technologists, and other stakeholders adopting cloud computing.
3. Audience and Application:
– The intended audience includes both consumers and providers of cloud services, making it a versatile guide for various stakeholders in the cloud ecosystem. The document emphasizes its applicability to federal agencies but also notes that non-governmental organizations can use it voluntarily.
The NIST definition of cloud computing provides a clear framework for understanding and comparing cloud services and deployment strategies. It emphasizes the importance of essential characteristics such as on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. The service models (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS) and deployment models (private, community, public, hybrid) offer a taxonomy for classifying cloud computing offerings. This publication serves as a foundational reference for federal agencies and other organizations looking to adopt cloud computing in a secure and cost-effective manner.
NIST Special Publication 800 – 145 defines cloud computing, highlighting its five core attributes: on – demand self – service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. These characteristics emphasize cloud computing’s flexibility and scalability, enabling users to access resources as needed with little provider intervention. The “measured service” aspect is crucial for transparency and accountability in resource usage management. Additionally, there are three service models (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS) and four deployment models (private, community, public, hybrid cloud), offering diverse use cases and deployment options to meet various organizational and user needs. Overall, cloud computing changes the way IT resources are acquired and used, providing efficient and cost – effective solutions, especially suitable for scenarios requiring rapid resource scaling and on – demand usage.
one impressive aspect is the clear -cut five essential characyeristics of cloud computing on :demand self,board network access,resource pooling,rapid elasticity,and measured service. these charayeristics precisely define what cloud computing is, guiding organizations in adoption. for example,rapid elasticity allows companies to scale resources up or down ,saving costs.another point is its standardization efforts,which help in ensuring interoperability and portability across different cloud providers.
One key point from the NIST Special Publication 800-145, The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing, is the clear definition of five essential characteristics that distinguish cloud computing from traditional IT infrastructures. These characteristics—on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service—provide the flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency that cloud services offer.
Rapid elasticity stands out as a critical feature, allowing resources to scale up or down automatically based on demand, ensuring organizations only pay for what they use. This is in contrast to traditional infrastructures where provisioning resources can take weeks or months. With cloud computing, resources can be scaled nearly instantly, which is ideal for dynamic workloads such as web applications and AI processing.
The concept of measured service is also crucial, as it introduces a consumption-based pricing model where resource usage is monitored and optimized. This enhances cost-effectiveness and transparency, allowing businesses to better manage IT spending. However, this flexibility brings security and governance challenges, requiring strong monitoring, access control, and compliance measures to prevent unauthorized use and ensure data protection in the cloud.
NIST Special Publication 800-145 provides a clear definition of cloud computing, breaking it down into five essential characteristics (on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service), three service models (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS), and four deployment models (private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, hybrid cloud). This framework offers a foundational understanding of cloud computing, helping users select appropriate services and deployment models based on their needs. It emphasizes the flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency of cloud computing, making it a valuable resource for both consumers and providers.
A key point from the document is the NIST definition of cloud computing, which describes it as a model for enabling ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction.
This model is characterized by five essential features: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service.
Additionally, it outlines three service models (Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)) and four deployment models (private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, and hybrid cloud).
Cloud computing is defined by five essential characteristics: on – demand self – service allowing users to access resources without human help for increased agility, broad network access enabling access from any device anywhere breaking geographical bounds, resource pooling by providers for efficient resource use and cost savings, rapid elasticity to scale resources up or down automatically with demand, and measured service where usage is tracked and billed based on actual consumption; understanding these, which are interdependent, is crucial for both cloud service consumers to evaluate offerings and providers to align services with cloud principles and stand out in the market, as it helps in effectively leveraging cloud services to realize its full potential.
A crucial insight from NIST Special Publication 800 – 145, “The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing,” lies in its elucidation of cloud computing’s essential features. It pinpoints five core attributes central to cloud services: on – demand self – service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. These characteristics underscore the flexibility and scalability inherent in cloud computing. They empower users to obtain computing resources whenever required, with minimal need for human intervention from the provider and without complex management processes.
This framework offers a distinct and standardized approach to assess and contrast different cloud service offerings. It enables organizations to make more well – informed choices when choosing cloud solutions that match their operational requirements. Notably, the “measured service” attribute holds particular significance. It brings transparency and accountability to the forefront, enabling both the provider and the consumer to monitor and manage resource utilization. This is vital for effective cost management and for ensuring resources are used optimally. In essence, this definition plays a critical role in formulating cloud adoption strategies and in grasping how to most effectively utilize cloud technology to meet diverse business demands.
NIST SP 800-145 defines cloud computing as a model enabling ubiquitous, on-demand network access to shared, configurable computing resources that are rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort. The framework outlines five essential characteristics—on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service—to distinguish cloud computing from traditional IT models. It also categorizes cloud services into three models: Software as a Service (SaaS), where users access applications over the internet without managing infrastructure; Platform as a Service (PaaS), which provides tools for deploying custom applications; and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), offering raw computing resources like virtual machines and storage. Additionally, the publication identifies four deployment models: private, community, public (open to the general public), and hybrid (a combination of two or more models). This definition helps organizations evaluate cloud offerings, align them with operational requirements, and address security and compliance considerations by clarifying service ownership, control, and scalability.
One of the things that struck me the most in this article was the “five fundamental characteristics” of cloud computing. These characteristics not only define the core value of cloud computing, but also differentiate cloud computing from traditional computing models, specifically as follows:
On-demand self-service: Users can automatically obtain computing power according to their needs without human intervention. For example, an e-commerce enterprise during the promotion activities, business volume increases sharply, through the cloud computing platform, can independently and quickly increase server resources, improve the processing capacity of the website, in order to cope with a large number of user access requests, to ensure the smooth shopping process, to avoid the phenomenon of delays or crashes. This feature greatly improves the timeliness and autonomy of resource acquisition, allowing enterprises to flexibly respond to business dynamics.
Extensive network access: Provide services over the network and support multiple device access. Whether it is an office computer, smartphone or tablet, users can easily use cloud services as long as they are connected to the network. Take cloud storage service as an example, users can upload important files in the office computer, download and view them at any time and anywhere on the way home through mobile phones after work, breaking the restrictions of devices and regions, realizing seamless connection and convenient sharing of information, and greatly improving the user experience.
Resource pooling: Resources are consolidated in a centralized manner and dynamically allocated to multiple users. A cloud computing provider aggregates a large number of physical and virtual resources, such as servers, storage devices, and network bandwidth, into a resource pool. Different enterprises or users obtain resources from the resource pool based on their service requirements. For example, multiple small enterprises share computing resources on the same cloud platform. During off-peak hours, resources can be flexibly deployed to other users with requirements. In the peak period of business, it can dynamically allocate resources according to the actual needs of each enterprise to maximize the utilization of resources and avoid idle and waste of resources.
Rapid resilience: The ability of resources to expand or shrink rapidly to accommodate changes in demand. In some unexpected cases, such as a hot topic on a social media platform that causes a large number of users to visit at the same time, the platform can increase server resources instantaneously with the help of the fast elasticity of cloud computing to meet users’ access needs. When the heat dissipates, resource allocation can be reduced in time to reduce operating costs. This ability to quickly respond to changes in demand enables enterprises to quickly adjust resource investment and enhance business flexibility and competitiveness in the face of complex and changing market environments.
Measurable services: Resource usage can be monitored and reported for transparent management. Cloud service providers use technologies to monitor users’ resource usage in real time, such as computing resource usage duration, storage capacity, and network bandwidth consumption, and generate detailed reports. Users can get a clear picture of their resource usage, and use the report to control costs and optimize their business. At the same time, it also helps cloud service providers to set reasonable prices and ensure fairness and transparency of services. For example, an enterprise can analyze which business modules consume more resources based on resource usage reports to optimize business processes and improve resource utilization efficiency.
In NIST SP 800-145, “on – demand self – service” is a key feature of cloud computing. It lets users automatically deploy and manage resources based on their needs, without manual interaction with the service provider. This model boosts resource efficiency, speeds up business response, and cuts IT costs, letting businesses focus more on core innovation. Yet, while enjoying these benefits, enterprises must pay attention to security and compliance, devising proper strategies to ensure the safe and effective use of cloud computing resources.
A key point from the reading is the NIST definition of cloud computing, which highlights its essential characteristics: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. This definition emphasizes how cloud computing enables users to access and manage resources (like storage, processing power, and applications) with minimal interaction from service providers. The shift to cloud computing also brings flexibility for users to scale their computing needs efficiently. The five essential characteristics form the foundation for distinguishing cloud services and understanding how businesses can use them effectively, making it a crucial part of modern IT infrastructure.
The NIST Special Publication 800-145 provides an authoritative definition of cloud computing. It describes cloud computing as a model that enables on-demand access to a shared pool of computing resources over a network, characterized by five essential features: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service.
The document also outlines three primary service models: Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), which differ in the level of control and resource utilization they offer to users. Additionally, it defines four deployment models: private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, and hybrid cloud, each catering to different organizational needs and security requirements.
Aimed at system planners, technologists, and cloud service providers and consumers, this publication offers a common framework for discussing, comparing, and deploying cloud computing solutions while emphasizing the flexibility to accommodate various implementation methods.
A key insight from NIST Special Publication 800-145, The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing is its clear framework for understanding the essential characteristics of cloud computing. The publication outlines five fundamental attributes that define cloud services:
On-demand self-service – Users can access computing resources as needed without requiring manual intervention from service providers.
Broad network access – Cloud services are available over the network, ensuring accessibility across various devices and locations.
Resource pooling – Computing resources are dynamically allocated and shared among multiple users to optimize efficiency.
Rapid elasticity – Resources can be scaled up or down quickly to meet fluctuating demands.
Measured service – Resource usage is transparently monitored and billed, allowing for cost efficiency and accountability.
The NIST Special Publication 800-145, “The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing,” highlights the essential characteristics of cloud computing with clarity. It outlines five key attributes of cloud services: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. These attributes underscore the flexibility and scalability of cloud computing, enabling users to access computing resources as required, with minimal manual intervention or provider management.
This framework offers a standardized approach for evaluating and comparing cloud services, aiding organizations in making informed choices that match their operational requirements. The inclusion of “measured service” is especially significant, as it ensures transparency and accountability, allowing both providers and consumers to monitor and manage resource usage effectively. This is vital for cost management and optimal resource utilization. The definition is pivotal for developing cloud adoption strategies and maximizing the benefits of cloud technology for business requirements.