Cloud Computing

What is the cloud?

Cloud computing is a model for enabling ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access
to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage,
applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal
management effort or service provider interaction.
Cloud is the Internet, and cloud computing describes software and services that run through
the Internet (or an intranet) rather than on private servers and hard drives.
How cloud computing works
Cloud computing differs from traditional IT hosting services in that the consumer (whether
that’s a business, organization, or individual user) generally doesn’t own the infrastructure
needed to support the programs or applications they use.
Instead, those elements are owned and operated by a third party, and the end-user pays only
for the services they use. In other words, cloud computing is an on-demand, utility-based
model of computing.
Characteristics of cloud computing
On-demand self-service
Users can access computing services via the cloud when they need to without interaction
from the service provider. The computing services should be fully on-demand so that users
have control and agility to meet their evolving needs.
Broad network access
Cloud computing services are widely available via the network through users’ preferred tools
(e.g., laptops, desktops, smartphones, etc.).
Resource pooling
One of the most attractive elements of cloud computing is the pooling of resources to deliver
computing services at scale. Resources, such as storage, memory, processing, and network
bandwidth, are pooled and assigned to multiple consumers based on demand.
Rapid elasticity
Successful resource allocation requires elasticity. Resources must be assigned accurately and
quickly with the ability to absorb significant increases and decreases in demand without
service interruption or quality degradation.
Measured service
Following the utility model, cloud computing services are measured and metered. This
measurement allows the service provider (and consumer) to track usage and gauge costs
according to their demand on resources.
Cloud service models
Cloud solutions come in three primary service models: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS),
Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS).

IaaS
IaaS gives users access to storage, networking, servers, and other computing resources via the
cloud. While the user is still responsible for managing their applications, data, middleware,
etc., IaaS provides automated and scalable environments that provide a high degree of control
and flexibility for the user.
For example, many businesses use IaaS to support workload spikes during busy seasons (like
holidays).
Popular IaaS providers include:
 Amazon Web Services (AWS)
 Microsoft Azure
 Google Compute Engine (GCE), the IaaS component of Google Cloud
Platform (GCP)
PaaS
This service layer is primarily geared towards developers and operations professionals.
Service providers rent out cloud-based platforms for users to develop and deliver
applications. In other words, PaaS provides a framework that makes it easier and more
efficient to build, customize, and deploy applications.
SaaS
Cloud application services are the most well-known of the cloud service models. The
software is hosted, packaged, and delivered by a third party through the Internet (typically on
a browser-based interface). By delivering the software application over the Internet,
enterprises can offload the costs of management and maintenance to the vendor(s).
Popular SaaS options include email and customer relationship management software.
Types of cloud computing
There are three main cloud service options: private, public, and hybrid clouds. Each has its
own advantages and disadvantages and which one you (or your business) choose will depend
on your data as well as the level of security and management you need.
Public
A public cloud is probably the most commonly understood cloud computing option. This is
where all the services and supporting infrastructure are managed off-site over the Internet and
shared across multiple users (or tenants).
A good example of a public cloud at the individual consumer level is a streaming service like
Netflix or Hulu. Users subscribe to the service through an individual account but access the
same services across the platform through the Internet.
The advantage of using a public cloud is the increased efficiency and subsequent cost-
effectiveness from shared resources. Public clouds are typically cheaper than private and
hybrid cloud solutions (as well as traditional on-premise computing) because they rely on
economies of scale. Users don’t have to pay for services they aren’t using and don’t have to
worry about managing and maintaining the physical infrastructure.
Private
A private cloud provides IT services through the Internet or a private network to select users,
rather than to the general public. Instead of having multiple tenants, like a public cloud does,
a private cloud typically has only one tenant. All the data is protected behind a firewall. This
is a popular choice for many businesses who want the agility of the cloud with greater
customization and security.
Private clouds can reside on-site or off-site. The distinguishing feature is the single, private
tenant who maintains greater control over the IT services. Private clouds are popular choices
for organizations who have high priorities on security and compliance.
Hybrid
A hybrid cloud environment combines both private and public cloud elements to varying
degrees. Despite operating independently, the clouds in a hybrid environment communicate
over an encrypted connection and allow for the portability of data and applications.
This is an increasingly popular cloud solution because it allows organizations greater
flexibility to meet their IT needs.
Benefits of using the cloud for your business
There are many potential advantages to adopting cloud-based solutions for your business.
Depending on your business and data needs, migrating to a cloud environment can result in
the following benefits:
Cost savings
Although the initial price tag for migrating to the cloud can give some businesses sticker
shock, there are attractive opportunities for ROI and cost savings. Operating on the cloud
typically means adopting a pay-as-you-go model, which means you no longer have to pay for
IT you’re not using (whether that’s storage, bandwidth, etc.).
Plus, cloud solutions are particularly affordable for smaller businesses who don’t have the
capital to build out and manage their own IT infrastructures. Greater efficiencies and
economies of scale mean more money in your pocket in the long run.
Reliability
A managed cloud platform is generally much more reliable than an in-house IT infrastructure,
with fewer instances of downtime or service interruptions. Most providers offer 24/7 support
and over 99.9% availability.
With backups for their backups, you can rest assured your data and applications will be
available whenever you need them.
Mobility
The cloud brings a level of portability unheard of with traditional IT delivery. By managing
your data and software on the cloud, employees can access necessary information and
communicate with each other whenever and wherever they want from their laptop,
smartphone, or other Internet-connected devices.
Cloud-based solutions open up opportunities for more remote work and higher productivity
and efficiency as everyone is assured access to the same updated information at the touch of a
button.