What layer is considered the foundation of cloud services?

The infrastructure layer is recognized as the foundation of cloud services because it comprises the fundamental components necessary to deliver cloud computing capabilities. This layer includes physical hardware such as servers, storage devices, and networking equipment, as well as virtualized resources that enable various cloud functionalities.

In cloud computing, the infrastructure layer provides the essential resources that support higher-level services, such as platforms and applications. Without a robust infrastructure, the other layers of cloud services—application, service, and platform—would not function effectively, as they rely on the reliable availability and management of underlying hardware and networking elements. This foundational aspect ensures scalability, performance, and resilience, making the infrastructure layer a critical element in the overall cloud service architecture.

Understanding the role of the infrastructure layer helps users appreciate how cloud services are built and how they can leverage this underlying foundation for their computing needs.