Cloud computing is a model for enabling ubiquitous, 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. It allows users to access technology-based services from anywhere without purchasing software licenses or hardware. Some key characteristics of cloud computing include resources being remotely hosted, services being available from anywhere via the internet, and resources being provided on a utility computing basis where users pay for only what they use.