How does cloud computing primarily differ from traditional computing?

Cloud computing primarily differs from traditional computing in that it is service-based rather than product-based. In cloud computing, resources and services are provided over the internet, allowing users to access them on-demand without needing to purchase and maintain physical hardware or software. This model enables flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, as users can pay only for what they consume.

Traditional computing often involves the purchase of physical servers, storage devices, and software licenses that require upfront investment and ongoing maintenance. In contrast, cloud services allow organizations to shift from a capital expenditure model to an operational expenditure model by subscribing to services as needed. This fundamental shift to a service-based model empowers businesses to innovate and scale quickly in response to changing demands without the burden of managing infrastructure directly.

The other options inaccurately represent the nature of cloud computing. For instance, cloud computing is not more focused on hardware; rather, it abstracts hardware and allows users to access services via the internet. Instead of requiring more on-premises resources, cloud computing typically reduces the need for them. Finally, it does not operate independently of the internet; the cloud environment fundamentally relies on internet connectivity to deliver its services.