Cloud computing is often the best option for businesses of all sizes. There are many advantages to moving to the cloud, such as reducing costs and improving efficiency.
A cloud deployment model is a conceptual framework that describes the relationship between the infrastructure and the end-user. It is often defined as the place where the deployment will take place.
Each cloud deployment model has its own unique characteristics, and it is important that you select one that fits your organization’s needs.
What is cloud computing
Cloud computing is a technology that uses remote servers on the internet to store, manage, and access data online rather than local drives. The data can be anything such as files, images, documents, audio, video, and more. Where we can use it:
- Developing new applications and services
- Storage, back up, and recovery of data
- Hosting blogs and websites
- Delivery of software on demand
- Analysis of data
- Streaming videos and audios
The cloud is built on the basis of several physical servers that work in a single system. These servers are divided into virtual machines (VM). We know that a physical server has a processor, RAM, data storage, etc. But the server, which we cannot "touch with our hands," has a different principle of operation. A server in the cloud is not limited by the parameters of the physical components. You can increase the RAM or decrease the power of the processor cores at any time. Why is that? There is safety in numbers. VMs use the resources of several servers at the same time.
Therefore, clouds are ideally suited for corporate tasks. On their basis, databases, postal services, online stores, and even company management systems are deployed.
What captivates cloud computing:
- High availability – you only need the Internet, regardless of time zones and geographic location
- Agility – providers are responsible for hardware and software updates
- Variability of user access and permissions
- Comprehensive service and support
Cloud computing deployment models
We will be looking at the four cloud deployment models that are available. These include public cloud, private cloud, hybrid cloud, and community cloud.
Public cloud
Public cloud deployments are usually housed on public servers that are accessible over the internet or through VPN service. The hardware and software used in these facilities are typically owned by the service owner. This saves a huge amount of money for companies that do not want to buy their own application server, storage, CPU, OS, database and etc.
Another benefit of this deployment is that it eliminates the need for additional staff members to maintain and service components. It also allows you to easily expand and add new services without having to hire more people.
Most of all, public clouds are used for file-sharing, e-mail services, application development, and testings.
There are a few drawbacks to using public cloud storage though. One of them is the possibility that your data will be shared with other companies. So, it has to require certification.
➕ Pros:
Easy to manage. It eliminates the need for you and your team to regularly attend to the maintenance of the system.
Cost. The way services are billed is that you pay for what you use, and then regulate when it needed.
Reliability and performance. There is no limit to the number of users. And the location of users is independent because its services are delivered through the internet.
➖ Cons:
Control. In the event of a failed cloud platform, you would not be able to maintain continuity of operations.
Security. Your data is shared for big amount of users.
Private cloud
Although there are some similar technical details between public and privately-owned cloud platforms, the ownership of these services is the most crucial difference. If you are not authorized to use the platform, then you will not be able to access it.
A company can choose to have its own private cloud platform or run it on-premise. Another thing that makes a private cloud run smoothly is that it's maintained by the staff of the company. This ensures that the systems are designed and operated according to the company's specifications.
Private cloud deployments are used for medical companies, banking institutions, and organizations with state guidelines for data use control. Medical records and other sensitive data can’t go public, right?
➕ Pros:
Control. Fewer people having access to the admin tools and configuration of your private cloud will give you more control.
Customization. If you have a compelling reason to develop a new feature, you can easily deploy it in-house.
Security. You can easily integrate as many security services as your business needs. Two-factor Authentication is easily the most secure method of cloud security.
➖ Cons:
Team. To take advantage of the power of the private cloud, you need the right skills of developers, security experts, DevOps and etc.
Cost. Most companies can't afford to set up their own cloud infrastructure. Even with the most advanced technology, the cost of running a private cloud is still expensive.
Hybrid cloud
Hybrid cloud deployment models are often formed by taking the best of both worlds – private and public cloud deployment models. They combine various aspects of a company's requirements into a single, unified cloud solution. For example, the public cloud can be used to store sensitive data, while the private cloud can be used to store user functions.
➕ Pros:
Flexibility. One of the best features of the cloud type is that it's very flexible. You can select the parts of it that you would like to integrate into your solution.
Scalability. You can regulate the functionality with the demand of users.
➖ Cons:
Data silos. They are the places where all of your collected data lies. Having the proper separation of these silos can help ensure that all of your data is properly allocated.
Cost. Hybrid cloud delivery models are not as expensive as they may seem, but they are also prone to spending too much. There is a risk of spending too much if you choose incorrect cloud services.
Community cloud
This deployment model supports multi-organizations sharing a common cloud environment. For example, universities share computing resources with the police force. Access to a community cloud environment is typically restricted to unauthorized members.
➕ Pros:
Cost. It is cost-effective because of sharing the cloud with several organizations or communities.
Collaboration. It is suitable to share resources, infrastructure, and other features among various organizations and members.
➖ Cons:
Limitations. There is a fixed amount of data storage is shared among all members. Also, not every organization is suitable to use it.
Security. Security features are better than public cloud but are not good as private capabilities.
Comparison of 4 cloud deployment models
Here is a table to demonstrate the difference between public, private, hybrid, and community cloud delivery models:
To sum up
The selection of the right cloud deployment model is an important step in the right direction. There are many factors to consider when choosing a cloud solution.
In order to successfully deploy and manage your own cloud infrastructure, you should be aware of the various types of cloud computing and the pros and cons of each deployment model.
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