What type of computing shares resources rather than relying on local servers or devices?

Cloud computing is characterized by its ability to share resources over the internet rather than relying on local servers or individual devices. This technology allows for scalable and on-demand access to various services such as storage, processing power, and applications that are hosted off-site in data centers.

Users can access cloud services through various devices without the need for heavy processing or storage capabilities on those devices since the bulk of the computing is done remotely. This model can lead to increased efficiency, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, as organizations can utilize resources based on their current needs without investing in significant local infrastructure.

While distributed computing also involves using multiple systems to accomplish a task, it doesn't specifically denote the shared resource model over the internet characteristic of cloud computing. Grid computing focuses more on leveraging a network of computers to solve large problems collaboratively, whereas virtual computing is primarily about creating virtualized environments or instances. Thus, cloud computing stands out for its resource-sharing feature, which fundamentally reshapes how technology resources are utilized and accessed.