Cloud, Cloud Computing, Utility computing, Grid Computing

Cloud implies the software, platform and Infrastructure that are vended as a service. These services are accessed distantly using the Internet. The users of cloud can just log on to the network without installing anything. They are not required to pay for hardware, security and maintenance. All this is taken care by service providers.

Cloud computing is a model for distributing IT services in which resources are retrieved using the internet through web based tools and applications at place of direct connection to the server.

Utility computing is the delivery of storage resources and computational resources as a metered service same as to those delivered by a traditional public utility company.

Grid Computing is often confused with cloud computing it is a method of distributed computing model that implements virtual supercomputer that is made up of a cluster of computers engaged to execute very huge tasks.