This document provides an overview of cloud databases. It defines a cloud database as a database that runs on cloud computing platforms and is accessed as a service. There are two primary methods to run databases in the cloud: using virtual machine images or database-as-a-service (DBaaS). DBaaS allows users to avoid installing and maintaining databases themselves. The document outlines the architecture of cloud databases and characteristics like high availability. It lists advantages such as low cost, easy access to data from anywhere, and simple data sharing. Security issues with cloud databases are also noted.