What is cloud computing?

Simply put, cloud computing is a form of computing in which the user accesses any computing resource remotely through a simple client, which in most cases is a web browser. This resource could be a software application or an operating system or remotely located hardware. Cloud computing is a manifestation of the desire to optimize the use of shared computing resources by creating an infrastructure that lets you use the computing power, storage, and network optimally and pay for only what you use.