Cloud computing is a modern form of advanced information system that has developed with the proliferation of the Internet, broadband access networks and high-speed processors, and it is continuing to spread. Cloud computing enables users to use IT resources, such as processors and storage, through the network, by simply paying a fee and without needing to own servers. Running costs are reduced because resources can be used on-demand only as needed. Since hardware provisioning is not necessary, software development and launching new services can be done quickly. Cloud computing also drives innovation in information systems. For example, cloud computing has made it easy to build cluster systems using virtual machines, which has led to the development of scalable data stores such as object storage and key-value stores. Cloud computing also led to the development of software defined networks and software defined storage, to respond rapidly to the requirements of users and applications. In this paper, the benefits of cloud computing are reviewed and technologies supporting it and new technologies arising from it are outlined. Directions for cloud computing in the future are also discussed.