# public cloud

CEFR B2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/public-cloud
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a type of online storage and computing service that many different people and companies share. You access it over the internet, and a provider like Google or Amazon manages the hardware.

For teachers: a computing model where services and infrastructure are hosted by a third-party provider and shared across multiple organisations via the public internet. It contrasts with private clouds, which are dedicated to a single user or entity.

## Examples

- Our company stores its website files on a public cloud.
- Small startups often prefer the public cloud because it allows them to scale their computing power without buying expensive servers.
- While the public cloud offers significant cost advantages and flexibility, highly regulated industries must carefully evaluate the security implications of storing sensitive data on shared infrastructure.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.