1. Please identify and explain the three service models of Cloud Computing?

The Software as a Service (SaaS) is a capability that is provided to the consumer to use the provider’s applications on a cloud infrastructure. The second service model is the Platform as a Service (SaaS) that provides the consumer with the capability of accessing consumer-created applications using tools provider by the provider. The Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is a capability provided to the consumer to process, store, or use computing resources. The consumer is also allowed networking access.

2. Articulate or explain at least two distributed computing models?

Telecommunication networks are examples of distributed computing models, and may be used to integrate telephone networks with cellular networks, or wireless sensor networks. Another example of distributive computing models is that of the World Wide Web and peer to peer network such as a workstation model using a network of personal workstations.

3. Explain the concept of Client/Server computing, it's strengths and weaknesses, citing one typical scenario in which it is used?

Client server computing refers to the architecture comprised of one powerful server which provides information to other subordinate work stations. Its main strength is that it has centralized control, and it leads to easier management of information. Back-up and recovery of information is also easier. Its weakness lies in the fact that it may result in the congestion of the network due to multiple requests from clients. It is also very expensive to install and manage it. It is applicable in scenarios such as airline applications and bank organizations where the system must run without stopping.

4. Identify and explain at least two Client/Server variations?

The 2-tier variations divide the logic between the client and the server. Examples of such applications include file servers and database servers that have stored procedures. The other type is the 3-tier client/server variation, where the logic is situated in the middle tier, and it is separated from the user interface and the data.

5. Please explain the concept of "thin clients", citing it's strengths, weaknesses and at least one common use scenario?

Thin clients are the desktop interfaces that are seen by a person running the application. They are a step beyond the network computers, and they do not download operating systems or applications from the server but instead, they run them locally. It is also easy to make changes without having to initiate change from every desktop. On the downside, stronger servers are needed, and they have poor response times. It can be used in a business setting with many workstations.

6. Please explain the concept of "thick clients", citing it's strengths, weaknesses and at least once

Thick clients are the nodes attached to the networks that have their own memory, processor, and storage devices. They are beneficial when high intensive applications are required, and their application is utilized when making animated films due to the requirement of high network bandwidth. However, they are expensive to install and maintain. They also require the installation of large servers, which may be rendered redundant with time, therefore giving higher costs than benefits.

7. Explain the concept of Peer-to-Peer, P2P, computing, it's strengths and weaknesses, citing one typical scenario in which it used?

Peer-to-peer computing distributes workloads among various workers. All the peers are equally privileged, and they form a network of nodes. Its advantage is it is easy to install, and all the peers. It is also more reliable as there is no centrality of functions. On the downside, it is challenging to administer due to decentralization, and data recovery is difficult. A typical scenario of a peer-to-peer is M-commerce applications with real-time functions.