What is one feature that distinguishes a VPC from a standard cloud service?

One distinguishing feature of a Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) is the enhanced security and isolation it provides compared to standard cloud services. A VPC allows users to create a logically isolated section of the cloud, in which they have complete control over their virtual network environment. This includes the ability to define IP address ranges, configure subnets, and set up route tables and network gateways. The isolation from other customers in the cloud ensures that resources and communications within the VPC are not accessible to users of other VPCs, enhancing the security of the data and applications deployed within it.

Additionally, the use of VPCs supports the implementation of custom security measures, such as private subnets and security groups. This level of control and customization is vital for businesses that need to comply with stringent regulatory requirements or that want to maintain tighter security measures than what a shared environment typically offers. The focus on security and isolation is one of the primary reasons organizations choose a VPC over standard cloud services, which provide less granular control and may expose resources to wider access on a shared infrastructure.