How does a 'cloud application' primarily operate?

A cloud application primarily operates by running on remote servers that are accessed via the internet. This means that the software is not stored or executed on an individual user's device but rather on powerful servers located in data centers. Users can access these applications from any internet-enabled device, allowing for flexibility and ease of use. This model supports features such as automatic updates, scalability, and collaborative functionalities, since the application and its data are managed in the cloud rather than relying on local storage.

In contrast, other options describe different computing models that do not align with the essence of cloud applications. For example, installing software directly onto a user’s device would refer to traditional software applications, which require manual installation and local storage. Operating without internet connectivity contradicts the fundamental nature of cloud applications, which rely on internet access to function. Lastly, requiring advanced user programming would apply to custom software development rather than the typical use-case scenario for cloud applications, which are generally designed to be user-friendly and accessible to a broad audience without extensive programming knowledge.