CLOUD COMPUTING: Definition, Types, Pros, Cons & PDF (Detailed 2023 Guide)

The impact of the internet can never be over-emphasized in our world today. For smooth and effective running of any enterprise is grossly dependant on the use of the computer. Establishments are in need of where to store their data and information, and an easier way to go about the administration of the firm. Hence, the limitation of human strength and available space has forced man to resort to other alternatives. Thus, the need for cloud computing. In this article we shall consider could computing definition, types, disadvantages and lots more.

Definition of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services including, storage, databases, development tools, networking capabilities, software, analytics, and intelligence over the Internet (“the cloud”) to offer faster innovation, flexible resources, and economies of scale. Another simpler definition of cloud computing is the delivery of different services through the Internet. These resources include tools and applications like data storage, servers, databases, networking, and software.

Overview

Cloud computing is named as such because the information being accessed is found remotely in the cloud or internet space. Consequently, companies that provide various types of cloud computing services enable users to store files and applications on remote servers and then access all the data via the Internet. Furthermore, this means the user is not required to be in a specific place to gain access to it, allowing the user to work remotely.

It takes all the heavy lifting involved in crunching and processing data away from the device you carry around or sit and work at. Also, it moves all of that work to huge computer clusters far away in cyberspace (definition of cloud computing explained it better). Rather than keeping files on a proprietary hard drive or local storage device, cloud-based storage makes it possible to save them to a remote database. As long as an electronic device has access to the web, it has access to the data and the software programs to run it.

Types of Cloud Computing

From the above definition of cloud computing, one can deduce the vastness of the topic. Hence, we shall consider its breakdown now. There are three types of cloud computing: public, private, and hybrid. Each type requires a different level of management from the customer and provides a different level of security.

Public cloud:

This is the classic cloud computing model, where users can access a large pool of power over the internet. One of the significant benefits here is the ability to rapidly scale a service. The cloud computing suppliers have vast amounts of computing power, which they share out between a large number of customers the ‘multi-tenant architecture. The global market for public cloud computing has grown rapidly over the past few years, and analysts forecast that this trend will continue. Among all the three types of cloud computing, this is the most widely used.

Many enterprises are moving portions of their computing infrastructure to the public cloud because public cloud services are elastic and readily scalable, flexibly adjusting to meet changing workload demands. Others like the promise of greater efficiency and fewer wasted resources since customers pay only for what they use. Still, others seek to reduce spending on hardware and on-premises infrastructures.

Private cloud :

The private cloud allows organizations to benefit from some of the advantages of the public cloud. But, without the concerns about relinquishing control over data and services because it is tucked away behind the corporate firewall. Companies can control exactly where their data is being held and can build the infrastructure in the way they want. To give developers access to a pool of computing power that scales on-demand without putting security at risk. However, that additional security comes at a cost, as few companies will have the scale of AWS, Microsoft or Google. Which means they will not be able to create the same economies of scale. Still, for companies that require additional security, the private cloud may be a useful stepping stone. Helping them to understand cloud services or rebuild internal applications for the cloud, before shifting them into the public cloud.

Hybrid cloud :

A hybrid cloud is perhaps where everyone is in reality: a bit of this, a bit of that. Some data in the public cloud, some projects in a private cloud, multiple vendors and different levels of cloud usage. According to research by TechRepublic, the main reasons for choosing a hybrid cloud include disaster recovery planning and the desire to avoid hardware costs when expanding their existing data centre.

• Infographic: Companies are turning to hybrid cloud to save money
• What does ‘hybrid cloud’ mean? It depends on whom you ask
• Managing the multi-cloud: It’s complicated.

Continuing the discussion of cloud computing, let’s explore its advantages in depth, particularly in relation to data security, cost savings, and scalability—highlighting the benefits associated with cloud hosting.

Advantages of Cloud Computing 

A glance at the definition of cloud computing will tell one that many advantages abound. Cloud-based software offers companies from all sectors a number of benefits, including the ability to use software from any device either via a native app or a browser. As a result, users can carry their files and settings over to other devices in a completely seamless manner.

Cloud computing is far more than just accessing files on multiple devices. With cloud computing services, users can check their email on any computer. And even store files using services such as Dropbox and Google Drive. The services also make it possible for users to back up their music, files, and photos. Thus, ensuring those files are immediately available in the event of a hard drive crash.

It also offers big businesses huge cost-saving potential. Before the cloud became a viable alternative, companies were required to purchase, construct, and maintain costly information management technology. Companies can swap costly server centers and IT departments for fast Internet connections, where employees interact with the cloud online to complete their tasks.

The cloud structure allows individuals to save storage space on their desktops or laptops. It also lets users upgrade software more quickly. Because software companies can offer their products via the web rather than through more traditional, tangible methods involving discs or flash drives. For example, Adobe customers can access applications in its Creative Cloud through an Internet-based subscription.⁸ This allows users to download new versions and fixes to their programs easily.

As its generally known that all things that have advantages also possess disadvantages, cloud computing is not an exception to that law. Thus, we shall consider the disadvantages of cloud computing.

Disadvantages of Cloud Computing

With all of the speed, efficiencies, and innovations that come with it, there are, naturally risks. Those natural risks are the things considered as the disadvantages of cloud computing

Security has always been a big concern with the cloud. Especially when it comes to sensitive medical records and financial information. While regulations force its services to shore up their security and compliance measures, it remains an ongoing issue. Encryption protects vital information, but if that encryption key is lost, the data disappears. Servers maintained by cloud computing companies may fall victim to natural disasters, internal bugs, and power outages, too.

As with any technology, there is a learning curve for both employees and managers. But with many individuals accessing and manipulating information through a single portal, inadvertent mistakes can transfer across an entire system. this the most complied disadvantages of cloud computing.

Cost Computing Migration Costs

For start-ups who plan to run all their systems in the cloud getting started is pretty simple. But for the majority of companies, it is not so simple. With existing applications and data, they need to work out which systems are best left running as they, and which to start moving them to cloud infrastructure. This is a potentially risky and expensive move, and migrating to the cloud could cost companies more if they underestimate the scale of such projects.

A survey of 500 businesses that were early cloud adopters found that the need to rewrite applications to optimize them for the cloud was one of the biggest costs. Especially if the apps were complex or customized. A third of those surveyed said cited high fees for passing data between systems as a challenge in moving their mission-critical applications.

The report by Forrester also found that the skills required for migration are both difficult and expensive to find. Hence, even when organizations could find the right people, they risked having them stolen away by cloud computing vendors. One-third of those surveyed said their software database license costs drastically increased if they moved applications.

How does cloud computing enhance data security?

Cloud computing providers use advanced security measures to protect data stored in the cloud. These measures include encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular software updates to fix security vulnerabilities. By storing data in the cloud, businesses can also reduce the risk of data loss due to hardware failure, theft, or other physical threats.

Can cloud computing save money for businesses?

Yes, cloud computing can save money for businesses. By using cloud services, businesses can reduce or eliminate the costs of hardware, software, and IT personnel, as well as energy costs for powering and cooling server rooms. Additionally, businesses only pay for the cloud services they use, which can reduce overall IT costs compared to traditional on-premise IT systems.

What are the top cloud computing providers?

The top cloud computing providers include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), IBM Cloud, and Oracle Cloud.

What are the key factors to consider when choosing a cloud computing provider?

When choosing a cloud computing provider, key factors to consider include: security and privacy, reliability, scalability, cost, support, and flexibility. Businesses should also consider the specific needs of their organization and choose a provider that offers the right mix of services and features to meet those needs.

What is cloud migration and how does it work?

Cloud migration is the process of moving data, applications, and other business assets from an on-premise IT system to the cloud. Cloud migration typically involves planning, testing, and executing the transfer of data and applications to the cloud. Once the migration is complete, businesses can start taking advantage of the benefits of cloud computing, such as improved scalability and security.

Can cloud computing support big data and analytics?

Yes, cloud computing can support big data and analytics. By using cloud services, businesses can store and process large amounts of data at scale, without having to invest in expensive hardware and IT infrastructure. Additionally, cloud computing provides access to powerful analytics tools and services, making it easier for businesses to gain insights from big data.

What are the future trends in cloud computing?

The future trends in cloud computing include increased use of artificial intelligence and machine learning, increased adoption of multi-cloud strategies, continued growth in edge computing, and increased emphasis on security and privacy. As technology evolves and cloud computing becomes more widespread, businesses can expect to see continued innovation and growth in the cloud computing industry.

Cloud Computing PDF

Let us take a look at the available Pdf books we have here.

1. Implementing Cloud Storage with OpenStack Swift: Design, implement, and successfully manage your own
2. Cloud Security: A Comprehensive Guide to Secure
3. OpenStack Cloud Computing Cookbook, 3rd Edition: Over 110 effective recipes to help you build
4. Big-Data Analytics and Cloud Computing
5. Secure Cloud Computing

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