Cloud Computing (Glossary)

Cloud computing is a fundamental term in the areas of digital transformation, big data, smart data and artificial intelligence.

In cloud computing, IT resources such as servers, storage space, or programmes are no longer operated on your own computer or in your company's own data centre. Instead, these services are used via the internet from specialised providers, known as cloud providers. This means: you have flexible access to computing power, storage, or software via an online connection, without having to worry about maintenance, updates, or security yourself.

A simple example: Previously, companies had to install expensive software on every computer for each employee. With cloud computing, one login is sufficient for everyone, and the software runs with the provider in the cloud. This way, companies save costs on hardware, benefit from regular updates, and can grant employees access regardless of their location.

Thanks to cloud computing, processes can be digitised more quickly, large volumes of data processed and new business models implemented. It is an engine for innovation and brings companies flexibility, scalability and efficiency.