This document provides definitions and discusses advantages of cloud computing and big data. It defines cloud computing as distributed computing over a network that allows programs to run across multiple connected computers. Big data is defined as extremely large and complex datasets that are difficult to process using traditional methods. The document outlines the pros of cloud computing, including better hardware utilization, scalability, usage-based pricing, and no upfront costs. It also discusses challenges like continuously changing workloads and the need for automation, horizontal scaling, and asynchronous task execution in the cloud.