This document provides an introduction to cloud computing, including its history, characteristics, deployment models, service models, components, and advantages and disadvantages. Cloud computing allows for shared computing resources and data storage over the internet. It originated in the 1960s and became popular with Amazon Web Services in 2006. The main deployment models are private, public, and hybrid clouds. The three main service models are Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). The advantages include flexibility, scalability, and cost savings, while the disadvantages include security, vendor lock-in, and increased vulnerability.