An architectural model for computing in which computing resources are made available to the user on an as needed basis. The goal of utility computing model is to maximize the efficient use of computing resources and minimize associated costs. Utility computing is enabled by storage virtualization, server virtualization, grid computing and automated infrastructure/service provisioning. Utility Computing is also referred to as On-Demand Computing.
a service provisioning model in which a service provider makes computing resources and infrastructure management available to the customer as needed ( on-demand computing), and charges them based on metered usage rather than a flat rate.
See "On-Demand" computing. IBM has attempted to dominate this market by naming its market offering "The Next Utility". Buying information technology is supposed to be as easy as flipping a switch.
A pay as you go model of computing. This allows companies to know how much they are Spending on IT resource from month to month. As needs change IT resources can be added and subtracted.
A pay-as-you-go model of computing. Instead of paying for computer resources to handle the peak load at all times, you pay only for the computing you use; analogous to an electric utility.
Utility computing is a business model whereby computer resources are provided on an on-demand and pay-per-use basis.