What is one key difference between an ISP and a cloud service provider?

The distinction that an ISP provides bandwidth while a cloud service provider offers more complex services is significant in the context of their primary functions. An Internet Service Provider (ISP) is primarily focused on delivering internet connectivity to customers, which involves providing the necessary bandwidth to access the internet. This service is typically foundational, as it allows users to connect to a variety of other services, including websites, applications, and cloud-based offerings.

On the other hand, a cloud service provider goes beyond just connectivity and offers a range of services that can include data storage, computing power, software applications, and more. These services are often scalable and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses and individuals. This capability enables users to perform complex tasks, leverage big data analytics, and run applications without the need for significant local resources.

This differentiation helps clarify the unique roles each type of provider plays within the broader internet ecosystem, with ISPs serving as the carriers of connectivity and cloud providers functioning as facilitators of advanced digital services.