Description: The scaling factor is a numerical value that determines the degree of scaling applied to resources in cloud infrastructure. This concept is fundamental in resource management, as it allows for adjusting the capacity of services according to demand. In the context of cloud computing platforms, the scaling factor is used to define how many instances of a resource should be created or removed based on current needs. This not only optimizes resource usage but also helps control costs, as instances can be reduced during low-demand periods and increased when greater capacity is required. The scaling factor can be dynamic, automatically adjusting to performance metrics, or manual, where developers set scaling parameters at their discretion. Effective implementation of this factor is crucial to ensure that applications remain available and respond appropriately to traffic fluctuations, thereby improving end-user experience and operational efficiency.