Cloud Computing: A Quick Overview

Cloud computing changes the way we approach IT by providing a wide range of computing resources such as servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics and artificial intelligence over the internet. This in turn means that innovation is quicker allowing for variable resource management and reduced cost. You will only pay for what you use thus reducing operating costs making it more efficient to work.

The benefits of cloud computing:

Cost savings

 Elimination of hardware and software costs: no need to spend on physical infrastructure or maintain data centers hence minimize capital expenditure.

Payment flexibility: Efficiently managing costs by paying only for what they consume in terms of services.

Speed and flexibility

Ease of set up: compute resources can be deployed almost instantly with just a few clicks enabling businesses to expand capacity in response to demand peaks and save money when there are troughs.

On-demand access: modify capacity requirements without long-term planning.

Internet reach worldwide

Scalable services: Customized computer power, storage, and bandwidth may be increased or decreased according to needs.

Worldwide availability: Allows the company to look at different global locations where they can use these computer resources from.

Increased productivity

Less manual IT work: reduce routine IT management tasks leaving time for teams to focus on strategic objectives.

Better Performance

State of the Art Technology: Works on top quality infrastructure and data centers which results in high performance and efficiency.

Reliability

Backup and Recovery: Simplifies disaster recovery with redundant data storage across multiple locations.

Strong Security

Comprehensive Security Measures: Many providers offer advanced security protocols and compliance features.

Cloud Deployment Models

Public Cloud

Third-Party Management: Services are hosted by external providers and accessed over the internet. Example; Microsoft Azure.

Private Cloud

Exclusive Use: Resources are dedicated to a single organization, either hosted internally or by a third party. Offers greater control and security.

Hybrid Cloud

Combination of Public and Private Clouds: Integrates public and private clouds to allow data and applications to move between them, enhancing flexibility and optimizing resources.

Cloud Service Types

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

Basic Infrastructure Rental: Rent essential IT resources like servers and storage based on pay-as-you-go model.

Platform as a Service (PaaS)

Development Platform: Provides an environment for creating, testing, and managing applications without dealing with underlying infrastructure.

Software as a Service (SaaS)

On-demand delivery of software: Just access the software applications via the internet; all maintenance and upgrades are taken care of by the provider.

Serverless Computing

Function-Based Computing: Building and deploying of application features without managing servers. The provider is managing the infrastructure and scaling.