What document outlines specific metrics and minimum performance provided by a cloud provider?

The correct choice is the Service Level Agreement (SLA). An SLA is a formal document between a cloud service provider and its customers that defines specific metrics related to the quality of service, availability, and performance that the provider commits to delivering. It outlines expectations regarding service uptime, response times, and support availability, ensuring that both parties understand the required standards for service performance.

An SLA plays a crucial role in managing customer expectations and provides a basis for accountability and measurable performance. If service levels are not met, the SLA often stipulates remedies or penalties for the provider, thereby establishing a framework of mutual obligation.

Other choices, while relevant in their contexts, do not fulfill the specific role of documenting performance metrics. An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is primarily associated with securing communications over a computer network. A benchmark typically refers to a standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed, often in a performance testing context but not specifically tied to contractual obligations. A baseline is a starting point for measurement that provides the standard for comparison but does not represent a documented agreement of service expectations.