Optimizing IT Costs with Cloud Computing: A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

Cloud computing helps businesses save money and work more efficiently by using online services instead of buying expensive hardware. Big cloud providers like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP) offer flexible, pay-as-you-go options. This means companies only pay for what they use.This study compares these three platforms to understand how they manage costs. It looks at their pricing models, resource usage, and tools for automation. While cloud services can cut costs and improve performance, there are also challenges like hidden fees, being locked into one provider, and poor cost tracking.To solve these issues, the study suggests using multi-cloud or hybrid systems, following FinOps (financial operations) practices, and using AI tools to monitor and manage spending.