> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://cybersecurity-cloud-and-it-notes.gitbook.io/kyles-cybersecurity-cloud-and-it-gitbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://cybersecurity-cloud-and-it-notes.gitbook.io/kyles-cybersecurity-cloud-and-it-gitbook/aws/certified-cloud-practitioner/intro-to-aws/theory/what-is-aws.md).

# 🌩️ What is AWS

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#### 🌩️ What is AWS?

**AWS (Amazon Web Services)** is the **world's leading cloud platform**. Imagine it as a **super-powered collection of services** that run on "someone else's computer" (the cloud) but with **more flexibility** and **reliability**.

**🚀 Why AWS is Awesome:**

* **Oldest Cloud Player**: Launched **Amazon EC2** in 2006, years ahead of competitors.
* **Market Leader**:
  * 🥇 AWS: **32%** market share
  * 🥈 Microsoft Azure: **19%**
  * 🥉 Google Cloud: **7%**
* **Diverse Service Offerings**: Over **175 services**, covering **data storage, machine learning, databases, security**, and even **satellite control** (yes, really! 🚀 AWS Ground Station).

**💡 Key Benefits of AWS:**

* **Pay-as-you-go Pricing**:
  * Pay only for what you use, even **by the second**.
  * Since 2017, some services are billed **by the millisecond**.
  * Examples:
    * Use a server for **83 seconds**, pay for **83 seconds**.
* **Flexibility & Accessibility**:
  * Choose **where** to run services 🌎.
  * Scale services based on your needs.
  * Easy remote access, without worrying about managing your own server infrastructure.

**💰 Who Uses AWS?**

* **Millions of Customers**, including:
  * Fast-growing startups 🚀
  * Large enterprises 🏢
  * Leading government agencies 🏛️

**📊 AWS Services:**

* From simple file storage to **fully managed satellite ground stations**, AWS has a service for nearly any tech need.
* Examples of popular services:
  * **Amazon EC2**: Virtual server for hosting apps.
  * **AWS Lambda**: Run code without managing servers (billed per millisecond!).

**🤔 Should You Use AWS?**

* AWS is a popular choice if:
  * Your **company uses it**.
  * You like **pay-as-you-go** and **scalability**.
  * You're interested in a **leader** with a broad service range.

AWS continues to **innovate**, making cloud services more accessible and affordable for businesses worldwide. 🌐

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