Cloud Computing Vocabulary Quiz
12 multiple-choice questions on cloud computing and IT vocabulary: SaaS, IaaS, PaaS, scalability, latency, virtualisation, bandwidth and data centres. B2 level.
This quiz focuses on how the target vocabulary for Cloud Computing is actually used in context at B2 level, rather than testing bare definitions. Correct answers you will need to identify include terms such as SaaS, IaaS, scalability, latency and virtualisation, each embedded in a full example sentence so you have to judge meaning from context, not just recognise an isolated word.
Working through all 12 questions and checking the explanations in the FAQ below is a quick way to spot any terms you are still unsure of. Revisiting the quiz again after a day or two, rather than only once, is one of the most reliable ways to move new vocabulary from passive recognition into words you can use confidently yourself in speaking and writing.
Keep building your cloud computing vocabulary.
Cloud Computing Vocabulary — FAQ
What is 'cloud computing'?
Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services — servers, storage, databases, networking and software — over the internet rather than on local hardware. Users access resources on demand and pay only for what they use. Major providers include AWS, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud.
What is the difference between SaaS, IaaS and PaaS?
SaaS (Software as a Service) delivers ready-to-use applications over the internet such as Gmail. IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) provides virtualised infrastructure such as servers on demand, like AWS EC2. PaaS (Platform as a Service) offers a platform for developers to build applications without managing the underlying infrastructure, such as Heroku.
What does 'scalability' mean in cloud computing?
Scalability is the ability of a system to increase or decrease its capacity in response to changing demand. Cloud services can add or remove servers quickly without disruption. This contrasts with on-premises infrastructure, where expanding capacity requires purchasing and installing new hardware.
What is 'latency'?
Latency is the time delay between a user's action and the system's response — how long data takes to travel from source to destination. It is influenced by physical distance to the data centre and network congestion. Low latency is critical for real-time applications such as video streaming and online gaming.
What is 'virtualisation'?
Virtualisation creates a virtual version of something physical, such as a server. A single physical server can be divided into multiple virtual machines (VMs), each running its own operating system. Virtualisation is the foundation of cloud computing as it maximises hardware use and offers flexible environments to multiple customers.
What does 'bandwidth' mean?
Bandwidth refers to the maximum amount of data that can be transmitted over a network connection in a given time, measured in Mbps or Gbps. Higher bandwidth means more data can flow simultaneously. Sufficient bandwidth is essential for fast data transfer between users and cloud servers.
What is a 'data centre'?
A data centre is a facility that houses large numbers of computer servers, storage systems and networking equipment. Cloud providers operate vast data centres worldwide. Their geographical location affects latency, data sovereignty and redundancy.
What does 'uptime' mean?
Uptime is the proportion of time a service is operational and available, usually expressed as a percentage. Cloud providers guarantee minimum uptime in service-level agreements (SLAs). The opposite is downtime, when the service is unavailable due to maintenance or outages.
What is a 'public cloud' versus a 'private cloud'?
A public cloud is shared among multiple customers over the internet. A private cloud is dedicated exclusively to one organisation, offering greater control and security. A hybrid cloud combines elements of both, allowing data and applications to move between them.
What is a 'container' in cloud computing?
A container is a lightweight software package that includes everything needed to run an application, ensuring it runs consistently across different environments. Containers are more efficient than VMs as they share the host OS kernel. Docker is the most widely used platform; Kubernetes orchestrates large numbers of containers.