Which of the following is NOT a benefit of using cloud computing?

The correct answer highlights a key distinction between cloud computing and traditional computing models. One of the primary benefits of cloud computing is its ability to operate independently of traditional hardware dependency. In cloud environments, resources such as servers, storage, and applications are provided over the internet, allowing organizations to access and utilize them without being tied to physical infrastructure. This flexibility enables businesses to focus on their core operations instead of managing and maintaining hardware.

In contrast, traditional computing often involves significant investment in physical servers and infrastructure, which can limit scalability and increase overall costs. The benefits of scalability, cost efficiency, and accessibility are hallmarks of cloud services, allowing organizations to quickly adjust their resources according to demand, save on upfront capital expenses, and provide access to applications and data from virtually anywhere with an internet connection.

Thus, the option that emphasizes traditional hardware dependency does not align with the advantages of cloud computing, making it the correct response.