What type of computing is cloud computing categorized under?

Cloud computing is categorized as a type of distributed computing because it operates on the principle of utilizing multiple interconnected computing resources, often distributed across various locations, to provide services over the internet. In distributed computing, tasks are performed across multiple machines that collaborate to process data and execute applications, and cloud computing exemplifies this by allowing users to access and utilize these resources on demand.

The essence of cloud computing lies in its ability to leverage a network of servers that handle storage, processing, and data management, thus enabling scalability and flexibility for users. This characteristic of distributing tasks and resources aligns perfectly with the distributed computing model, which is fundamental to how cloud services function.

While concepts such as grid computing and parallel computing exist within the broader context of distributed systems, cloud computing specifically encapsulates the dynamic allocation and sharing of resources across the network, making it a direct descendant of distributed computing principles.