Cloud services refer to the delivery of computing resources (like storage, processing power, and software applications) over the internet. Instead of owning and maintaining physical servers or software, users can rent or lease these resources from cloud service providers. Cloud services are typically scalable, flexible, and cost-effective, allowing businesses and individuals to access resources as needed.

There are three main types of cloud services:

1. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS):
• Provides virtualized computing resources (e.g., virtual machines, networking, and storage).
• Example: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud.
2. Platform as a Service (PaaS):
• Provides a platform and environment for developers to build, test, and deploy applications without managing the underlying infrastructure.
• Example: Google App Engine, Heroku, Microsoft Azure App Service.
3. Software as a Service (SaaS):
• Delivers fully managed software applications that users can access via the internet, eliminating the need for installation or maintenance.
• Example: Google Workspace (Docs, Gmail), Microsoft Office 365, Salesforce.

Cloud services can also be categorized by deployment models:

• Public Cloud: Resources are shared across different organizations, and services are provided over the internet.
• Private Cloud: Resources are dedicated to a single organization, often hosted on-premises or by a third-party provider.
• Hybrid Cloud: Combines public and private clouds, allowing for greater flexibility and optimization of existing infrastructure.