Cloud Computing AWS #1: Introduction & EC2 Instance Creation (via console) Quiz

Explore fundamental concepts of cloud computing, types of cloud services, and the practical steps to create your first EC2 instance using AWS. Learn distinctions between service models and best practices for getting started.

1. Cloud Computing Basics

   What is a key characteristic of cloud computing as defined by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)?

   1. On-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources
   2. Mandatory use of private cloud environments
   3. Access only via dedicated hardware
   4. Permanent allocation of resources to each user

   Explanation: Cloud computing allows users to access resources on-demand and share them efficiently, which is emphasized in the NIST definition. Mandatory private clouds are only one type, not required. Resources are not permanently allocated; elasticity is core. Access is not limited to dedicated hardware; virtualization is central.

2. Types of Cloud Service Models

   Which service model provides fundamental resources such as virtual servers, storage, and networking?

   1. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
   2. Platform as a Service (PaaS)
   3. Software as a Service (SaaS)
   4. Business as a Service (BaaS)

   Explanation: IaaS offers basic computing, storage, and networking building blocks. PaaS focuses on platforms for deploying applications, SaaS delivers ready-to-use software, and BaaS is not a commonly recognized cloud service model.

3. Categories of Cloud Deployment

   Which deployment model describes a cloud that combines public and private cloud features?

   1. Hybrid cloud
   2. Private cloud
   3. Public cloud
   4. Distributed cloud

   Explanation: Hybrid cloud blends features of both public and private clouds, allowing data or applications to move between them. Public and private clouds are distinct types, and distributed cloud is not a standard deployment model in this context.

4. EC2 Instance Creation Steps

   What must you provide when signing up to create a new account to launch your first EC2 instance in the AWS Management Console?

   1. Login credentials, contact details, payment information, identity verification, and support plan selection
   2. A pre-existing cloud project
   3. Hardware configuration only
   4. Public IP address of the local network

   Explanation: Creating an AWS account involves entering credentials, contact and payment details, confirming identity, and choosing a support plan. Hardware configuration and cloud project are set up within the account. Public IP is not required for account creation.

5. AWS EC2 Best Practices

   After setting up a new AWS account and launching resources, what is a recommended step to monitor future costs?

   1. Set up a billing alarm
   2. Delete the root user account
   3. Disable security groups
   4. Increase instance size immediately

   Explanation: Setting a billing alarm helps track and control spending as resources are used. Increasing instance size can increase costs rather than monitor them. Disabling security groups weakens security, and deleting the root user is not recommended.