Why can't we agree on the definition of Cloud Computing?

…will the cloud computing discussion devolve into tireless rhetoric? Can't we all just get along?

One of the biggest hindrances that could very well be preventing cloud computing from moving forward (in terms of development and public dissemination) is the lack of public accord with regards to what actually defines cloud computing. Sure, there are esteemed published research documents and reports (like those from Gartner for example) that have put forth solid, compelling definitions for cloud computing and its related terms, but that seems to have done little to stem the tide of discord. The fact remains, many of the most important and visible cloud computing terms are sometimes used interchangeably; which is disparaging, because often times these terms have entirely different meanings.

A great example (which perfectly illustrates the typical misunderstanding(s)), is the dual functioning term, 'virtualization' as it applies to cloud computing. A large number of individuals have taken to applying a loose interpretation of this term; even using it as a substitute for 'cloud computing'. The loose description of virtualization would be something to the effect of, 'running a virtual system from a remote location'. On its face, this sounds exactly like what cloud computing does; and in some ways it is. However, virtualization actually refers to creating virtualized, server-based copies of hardware, application or other software which are then fed to the user via the net. In other words, virtualization is a number of individual processes, not just an end result.

There is also a great amount of confusion concerning the application of SaaS (software as a service), IaaS (infrastructure as a service), and PaaS (Platform as a Service). This disorientation is linked to the use of these terms via both 'provider services' as well as 'technology stack description'.

• SaaS, IaaS, PaaS - As a provider service -
  • SaaS - A complete cloud computing solution encompassing every possible layer, from the hardware running the network, to the software / applications running in the foreground.
  • IaaS - This service level would provide the applications, virtualization(s), runtime environment, operating system, as well as other critical function elements. It may even be paired up with certain hardware elements that might be offered via a sole provider or a third-party vendor.
  • PaaS - Encompasses everything that's considered to be hardware or network related. Access to local hardware stack(s) and servers is what a company is usually offering when they put together a PaaS package.

• SaaS, IaaS, PaaS - As a technology stack description -
  • SaaS - The foreground - The literal elements that the user interacts with and sometimes manually manipulates comprises what's in the foreground of a cloud computing environment.
  • IaaS - The middle ground - Everything in the middle ground is there to ensure that communication between the foreground and background is seamless, efficient and self-correcting.
  • PaaS - The background - Without dedicated and expertly maintained hardware, cloud computing would be an afterthought. The hardware that runs a cloud network is what PaaS is all about.

These are just a few examples of the divisiveness amongst the cloud computing crowd. It could be said that around every corner there is currently some kind of misunderstanding about a cloud computing term or terms.

An official panel or congress needs to be held at some point in the near future to solidly define the terms and parameters of cloud computing once and for all. Once this is done, developers (as well as users) will be able to ensure cross compatibility / usability for everything that is produced hereafter. When working in a highly scientific environment like computing, programming and networking, you must have all of your terminology clearly defined in order to progress. As with any other scientific endeavor, future advancement is usually built upon the triumphs of the past. So if cloud computing is to take the next step, it will need to put a few triumphs under its belt first.