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Cloud Solutions Guide​

Cloud Solutions Guide​

What is cloud computing?

Cloud computing is the on-demand availability of computer system resources like applications, storage and processing power. It relies on the sharing of resources to achieve coherent and collaborative results.

These cloud services are delivered to users by hosting providers who manage their customers cloud infrastructure. Large cloud implementations often have instances spanning across multiple data center locations.

Many cloud solutions are offered on a pay-as-you-go basis allowing users to easily scale up while only paying for the resources they use.
cloud infrastructure virtualization

Primary Types of Cloud Computing

There are three primary types of cloud computing services.
Each type provides different features that offer varying levels of control, flexibility, and management.

Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)

With SaaS, you get a fully functional product that is operated and maintained by the service provider. When you use a SaaS product, you can forget about managing the underlying infrastructure or keeping up with service maintenance. All you have to consider is how you are going to use that specific piece of software.

Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS)

PaaS allows users the freedom to focus on the deployment and management of their apps. This is because the entire underlying infrastructure is managed and maintained by a service provider.  As a result, you can operate your hosted applications and cloud resources more efficiently.

Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)​

The cloud’s fundamental building blocks are found in IaaS. It provides users access to data and storage space, virtual or dedicated hardware, and networking functionality. With IaaS you have the most flexibility and administrative control over your IT resources. It most closely resembles the enterprise (on-premises) networks that many developers and IT teams are accustomed to working with.

Cloud Deployment Models

Public

A third-party service provider oversees a public cloud and is in charge of data center maintenance. SaaS is an example.

Pros:
No overhead maintenance costs or tech staff necessary to operate, and faster deployment.

Cons:
Some are concerned about security since there is less control at the corporate level.

Private

A private cloud is housed within a business network or data center behind a firewall. IaaS and PaaS exist here.

Pros:
Easily expand existing infrastructure, and provide increased security controls.

Cons:
Shifts the responsibility for maintaining resources and upgrade costs.

Hybrid

Hybrid clouds include elements of public and private clouds. This model offers the most flexibility overall.

Pros:
Seamless combinations of public and private services, and more features to choose from.

Cons:
Due to the complexity can be difficult to implement and manage over time.

Benefits of Cloud Computing

Cost Effective

Utilizing the cloud eliminates the need for physical networks and other costly equipment, which greatly reduces the cost burden.

Improved Performance

Because resources are “pooled” there is a major boost to performance. Your services will always run at peak optimal levels.

Rapid Elasticity

You can scale cloud resources up or down to instantly grow and shrink capacity as your business needs change.

Increased Security

Centralized data control results in improved security and protection. Monitoring and oversight is much easier and effective.

Better User Experience

On-demand tools empower users to be more productive. Overall, cloud services allow them to work and complete tasks more effectively.

High Availability

Because all information is stored online, cloud computing services can be accessed anywhere anytime, with just the click of a button.

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