The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing

http://csrc.nist.gov/groups/SNS/cloud-computing/
Authors: Peter Mell and Tim Grance
Version 15, 10-7-09
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National Institute of Standards and Technology, Information Technology Laboratory

Note 1: Cloud computing is still an evolving paradigm. Its definitions, use cases, underlying technologies, issues, risks, and benefits will be refined in a spirited debate by the public and private sectors. These definitions, attributes, and characteristics will evolve and change over time. 

Note 2: The cloud computing industry represents a large ecosystem of many models, vendors, and market niches. This definition attempts to encompass all of the various cloud approaches.

Definition of Cloud Computing:   Cloud computing is a model for enabling 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.

     The game has changed ... no longer are the days that require you to get caught up in an endless cycle of expensive software upgrades and frequent tech support.  Cloud computing offers a better way to communicate, store and share data, access applications and generally enhance all forms of internet-based, electronic communications.  Organizations trust all types of sensitive and critical data to 3rd parties, but are often hesitant to move their data to the cloud.  This is to be expected with any new technology and I support and encourage any effort to stay informed on these matters.  The ATS research page is devoted to the collection of information, links and documents that can offer insight into key areas of operating in the cloud.