What is the dominant model of cloud computing?

The service-based model is the correct answer because it fully captures the core concept of cloud computing, which revolves around delivering services, such as storage, processing power, and applications, over the internet. This model allows users to access resources on-demand without having to manage the underlying infrastructure, placing a significant emphasis on flexibility and scalability.

In this model, different types of cloud services are available, such as Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS), each catering to varying needs of users and organizations. This service-oriented approach promotes efficiency and reduces the need for physical hardware, making it more practical for businesses to adopt and integrate into their operations.

The other models mentioned do not align with the primary framework of cloud computing. The hardware-based model focuses on physical infrastructure ownership and management, which contradicts the very nature of cloud services. The network-based model emphasizes connectivity and communication protocols rather than the service delivery aspect, and the software-based model highlights applications over service-oriented architecture, missing the broader context of services that cloud computing offers.