Cloud Computing is a general term used to describe a new class of network based computing that takes place over the Internet,
basically a step on from Utility Computing
a collection/group of integrated and networked hardware, software and Internet infrastructure (called a platform).
Using the Internet for communication and transport provides hardware, software and networking services to clients
These platforms hide the complexity and details of the underlying infrastructure from users and applications by providing very simple graphical interface or API (Applications Programming Interface).