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Azure

Cloud computing terminology

Explore this glossary of essential terms to deepen your understanding of cloud computing
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Featured cloud terms

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Small language models

What are small language models (SLMs)?

Learn how SLMs help people innovate faster and more efficiently using fewer resources than larger models. Explore SLM use cases and advantages.
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Large language models

What are large language models (LLMs)?

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Machine learning

What is machine learning?

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RAG

What is retrieval-augmented generation (RAG)?

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Cloud terminology

Explore cloud terms with short definitions and links to in-depth articles for further learning. 
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AI

What is AI?

Systems that imitate human intelligence to learn, reason, solve problems, and make decisions.
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AI

AI vs. machine learning

AI performs tasks like reasoning; machine learning uses large datasets to train AI systems.
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AI

What is AI as a service (AIaaS)?

Delivers AI tools and services via the cloud, such as machine learning and computer vision.
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AI

What is face recognition?

Uses AI-powered computer vision to identify or verify individuals by analyzing their facial features.
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AI

What is a GPT?

Neural network models that analyze data and interpret and produce text, images, and sounds. 
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AI

What is cognitive AI?

AI that simulates human thought to analyze data, learn from it, and make decisions.
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AI

What is computer vision?

AI that processes visual data to analyze images, read text, detect faces, and recognize objects.
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AI

What is deep learning?

AI that uses neural networks to learn from large datasets and make predictions.
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AI

What are large language models (LLMs)?

AI systems that use large datasets and machine learning to understand and generate natural language.
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AI

What is machine learning?

Uses algorithms to analyze data, identify patterns, make predictions, and improve over time.
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AI

Machine learning algorithms—the math and logic behind machine learning

Programs that learn from data to find patterns, make predictions, and improve automatically.
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AI

What is model as a service (MaaS)?

Provides cloud access to pre-trained machine learning models to simplify AI app development.
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AI

What is retrieval-augmented generation (RAG)?

Makes AI responses more reliable by retrieving external data to improve accuracy and relevance.
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A person sitting at a desk working on a computer.
AI

What are small language models (SLMs)?

Smaller language models designed to perform specific tasks using fewer resources than larger models.
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