Which of the following is a primary advantage of using cloud-based integration solutions?

The primary advantage of using cloud-based integration solutions lies in their scalability and flexibility in resource management. Cloud services allow organizations to easily scale their resources up or down based on their needs without the burden of managing physical infrastructure. This elasticity means that businesses can efficiently respond to changing demands, such as fluctuating workloads or growth, by provisioning additional resources as required.

Furthermore, cloud solutions typically offer a variety of integration tools and services that can be accessed without the need for significant changes to local environments. This flexibility enables organizations to adopt new technologies and processes more readily, facilitating innovation and improved business agility.

In contrast, the other options highlight disadvantages or limitations associated with traditional on-premises solutions or incorrect perceptions of cloud offerings. Increased cost for infrastructure maintenance does not align with the benefits of cloud services, which often reduce the burden of maintenance. Dependency on local hardware and limited access to services are also contrary to the core benefits of cloud-based solutions, which are designed to leverage the internet to provide greater accessibility and reduce reliance on local systems.