Introduction:-
#Cloud computing is a computing paradigm, where a large pool of systems are connected in private or public networks, to provide dynamically scalable infrastructure for application, data and file storage.
With the advent of this technology, the cost of computation, application hosting, content storage and delivery is reduced significantly.#Cloud computing is a practical approach to experience direct cost benefits and it has the potential to transform a data center from a capital-intensive set up to a variable priced environment.
What is Cloud Computing :-
#Cloud computing refers to the use of hosted services, such as data storage, servers, databases, networking, and software over the internet. The data is stored on physical servers, which are maintained by a cloud service provider. Computer system resources, especially data storage and computing power, are available on-demand, without direct management by the user in #Cloud computing.
Cloud Computing Architecture :
Instead of storing files on a storage device or hard drive, a user can save them on cloud, making it possible to access the files from anywhere, as long as they have access to the web. The services hosted on cloud can be broadly divided into infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), platform-as-a-service (PaaS), and software-as-a-service (SaaS). Based on the deployment model, cloud can also be classified as public, private, and hybrid cloud.
Further, cloud can be divided into two different layers, namely, front-end and back-end. The layer with which users interact is called the front-end layer. This layer enables a user to access the data that has been stored in cloud through #Cloud computing software.
The layer made up of software and hardware, i.e., the computers, servers, central servers, and databases, is the back-end layer. This layer is the primary component of cloud and is entirely responsible for storing information securely. To ensure seamless connectivity between devices linked via cloud computing, the central servers use a software called middleware that acts as a bridge between the database and applications.
Types of Cloud Computing :
#Cloud computing can either be classified based on the deployment model or the type of service. Based on the specific deployment model, we can classify cloud as public, private, and hybrid cloud. At the same time, it can be classified as infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), platform-as-a-service (PaaS), and software-as-a-service (SaaS) based on the service the cloud model offers.
Private Cloud
In a private cloud, the computing services are offered over a private IT network for the dedicated use of a single organization. Also termed internal, enterprise, or corporate cloud, a private cloud is usually managed via internal resources and is not accessible to anyone outside the organization. Private #Cloud computing provides all the benefits of a public cloud, such as self-service, scalability, and elasticity, along with additional control, security, and customization.
Private clouds provide a higher level of security through company firewalls and internal hosting to ensure that an organization’s sensitive data is not accessible to third-party providers. The drawback of private cloud, however, is that the organization becomes responsible for all the management and maintenance of the data centers, which can prove to be quite resource-intensive.
Public Cloud
Public cloud refers to computing services offered by third-party providers over the internet. Unlike private cloud, the services on public cloud are available to anyone who wants to use or purchase them. These services could be free or sold on-demand, where users only have to pay per usage for the CPU cycles, storage, or bandwidth they consume.
Public Clouds can help businesses save on purchasing, managing, and maintaining on-premises infrastructure since the cloud service provider is responsible for managing the system. They also offer scalable RAM and flexible bandwidth, making it easier for businesses to scale their storage needs.
Hybrid Cloud
Hybrid cloud uses a combination of public and private cloud features. The “best of both worlds” cloud model allows a shift of workloads between private and public clouds as the computing and cost requirements change. When the demand for computing and processing fluctuates, hybrid Cloud allows businesses to scale their on-premises infrastructure up to the public cloud to handle the overflow while ensuring that no third-party data centers have access to their data.
In a hybrid cloud model, companies only pay for the resources they use temporarily instead of purchasing and maintaining resources that may not be used for an extended period. In short, a hybrid cloud offers the benefits of a public cloud without its security risks.
Infrastructure as a service (IaaS)
Infrastructure as a service or IaaS is a type of #Cloud computing in which a service provider is responsible for providing servers, storage, and networking over a virtual interface. In this service, the user doesn’t need to manage the cloud infrastructure but has control over the storage, operating systems, and deployed applications.
Instead of the user, a third-party vendor hosts the hardware, software, servers, storage, and other infrastructure components. The vendor also hosts the user’s applications and maintains a backup.
Platform as a service (PaaS)
Platform as a service or PaaS is a type of #Cloud computing that provides a development and deployment environment in cloud that allows users to develop and run applications without the complexity of building or maintaining the infrastructure. It provides users with resources to develop cloud-based applications. In this type of service, a user purchases the resources from a vendor on a pay-as-you-go basis and can access them over a secure connection.
PaaS doesn’t require users to manage the underlying infrastructure, i.e., the network, servers, operating systems, or storage, but gives them control over the deployed applications. This allows organizations to focus on the deployment and management of their applications by freeing them of the responsibility of software maintenance, planning, and resource procurement.
Software as a service (SaaS)
SaaS or software as a service allows users to access a vendor’s software on cloud on a subscription basis. In this type of #Cloud computing, users don’t need to install or download applications on their local devices. Instead, the applications are located on a remote cloud network that can be directly accessed through the web or an API.
In the SaaS model, the service provider manages all the hardware, middleware, application software, and security. Also referred to as ‘hosted software’ or ‘on-demand software’, SaaS makes it easy for enterprises to streamline their maintenance and support.
Key Benefits of Cloud Computing
The most important reason why #Cloud computing is growing rapidly is the various benefits it offers. It saves businesses the time and resources required to set up full-fledged physical IT infrastructure. Let’s look at all the benefits cloud offers:
Reduced costs: Maintaining IT systems requires big outlays of capital, something that cloud helps reduce. By using the resources provided by the cloud Provider, businesses avoid the need to purchase expensive infrastructure, substantially reducing their expenditure.
Cloud providers work on the pay-as-you-go model, which means businesses only pay for the services they use, further reducing costs.
Scalability: Cloud allows organizations to grow their users from merely a few to thousands in a very short time.
Depending on the need, a business can scale their storage needs up or down, allowing organizations to be flexible.
Flexibility and collaboration: Since the data on cloud can be accessed directly via the internet, it gives employees the ability to work from anywhere, anytime.
Cloud gives you the freedom to set up your virtual office anywhere you are. It also allows teams to work on a project across locations by giving them access to the same files as third-party vendors.
Business continuity: Cloud safely stores and protects your data in the event of an outage or crisis. This makes it easier to resume work once the systems are up and running again.
Competitive edge: Cloud takes care of various business aspects, such as maintaining the IT infrastructure, licensing software, or training personnel to manage your data. It, therefore, gives you an edge over your competitors since the time and resources you invest are minimal.
Cloud Computing Challenges
Now let’s move on to discuss some challenges of #Cloud computing.
The biggest challenge of #Cloud computing is the security concerns associated with the technology. Although cloud service providers assure you of implementing the best security standards and industry certifications, there’s always a risk while storing your data on cloud.
Downtime: Almost every cloud user will tell you that outages. At times, cloud service providers may get overwhelmed due to the huge number of clients they provide services to each day. This may lead to technical outages, due to which your applications may temporarily experience some downtime.
Internet connection dependency: A user may not be able to access the data on cloud without a good internet connection and a compatible device. Moreover, using public Wi-Fi to access your files could pose a threat if the right security measures are not taken.
Financial commitment: Cloud providers use a pay-as-you-go pricing model. However, businesses need to give a monthly or annual financial commitment for most subscription plans. This needs to be factored into their operating costs.
Security risks: Even if your cloud service provider promises you that they have the most reliable security certifications, there’s always a chance of losing your data. With hackers increasingly targeting cloud storage to gain access to sensitive business data, this might be an even greater concern, for which the appropriate measures need to be taken.
Limited access: A user may have minimal control since the cloud service provider owns and manages the infrastructure. The user would only be able to manage applications and not the backend infrastructure. Crucial tasks, such as firmware management, may not be passed to the user at all. You always have to trust a third-party vendor to ensure security and take care of your data.
Future of Cloud Computing
Cloud adoption is on the rise. According to Gartner, global public cloud services spending is forecast to reach $332.3 billion in 2021, from $270 billion in 2020.
The rise of the cloud has transformed business technology. Cloud applications and services are integrated into many business operations. From managing infrastructure to remote work and software development.
Cloud is no longer used only as a tool. Businesses of every size and industry are using the cloud for a variety of use cases.
Cloud is an integral part of remote working. #Cloud computing has also been the world’s technical response to the COVID-19 crisis.
We have compiled the top 8 cloud trends and predictions.
- Multi Cloud :
Multi-cloud refers to the presence of more than one cloud service (public or private). The service is sourced from different cloud vendors.
Multi-cloud distributes workloads across multiple cloud environments. You can use a private cloud for storing sensitive data. At the same time, host less sensitive workloads on the public cloud.
According to the Accenture Cloud Report, 93% of enterprises have a multi-cloud strategy.
Multi-cloud can significantly enhance security. It focuses on functionality, risk mitigation, and feature acquisition. It increases flexibility and minimizes lock-in.
Multi-cloud infrastructure offers a rich set of cloud options. It has a diverse range of functions. Thereby optimizing returns on cloud investments.
2. Advanced Security :
Innovation in cloud environments eliminates security risks.
Cloud is integrating security with AI and Machine learning. It helps automate the process of threat detection and prevention.
Machine learning helps analyze global data points in cloud-based transactions. AI attacks indicators that are more accurate in time & function.
Cloud of the future is going to be more robust and resilient. By 2022, at least 95% of cloud security failure will be the customer’s fault.
Cloud security will become intelligent, automated, and reliable. It will be driven by advances in AI, machine learning, and quantum computing.
3. Edge Computing Over Data Centre :
A McKinsey study claims that 127 new IoT devices connect to the internet every second. This impacts the way data centers are built. Companies now need data centers closer to the data source.
This need has given rise to edge computing.
Large vendors, including IBM, Dell, and Intel, are doubling on the edge solutions. Gartner states that 5.6 billion IoT devices have utilized edge computing for processing data.
Edge computing is essential for offering a distributed computing model. It is an emerging cloud trend that stores data locally. It lets you store data closer to the user instead of on a central server.
Edge computing provides enhanced performance with higher bandwidth availability. Benefits include quick insights and maximum efficiency.
It can manage massive data generated from IoT devices. With 5G, its speed is improved drastically.
4. IoT (Internet of Things) :
One of the leading #Cloud computing trends is the rise of IoT platforms.
#Cloud computing and IoT are very closely termed technologies as one provides the other a platform for success.
Gartner states that the number of connected things in use is up to 25 billion in 2021. A rise from 14.2 billion in 2019.
An IoT platform is a cloud-enabling platform. IoT in the cloud acts as a mediator. It is used for the development and deployment of applications.
IoT is a self-management technology. It allows smart device management.
It collects data with a remote device configuration. It also sends out real-time alerts to troubleshoot.
IoT supports different protocols to deliver smart predictions through monitoring.
High performance to interact and connect is what makes IoT a #Cloud computing trend.
5. Expansion of Data Storage Capacities :
The demand for cloud data storage will keep growing in the coming years. As a result, the future of #Cloud computing leads to a massive increase in data storage capacities.
The two most important attributes of cloud storage are price and speed.
Cloud storage will be faster. Data centers will have a larger storage capacity.
Cloud providers will implement data security frameworks. They will remove storage tiers for fast and easy access.
In the future, cloud storage will move toward edge computing.
Due to higher competition, data centers will be offered at a lower price. Low-cost data storage will introduce more opportunities for innovation.
6. Artificial Intelligence :
One of the most popular #Cloud computing trends to look forward to is AI.
By 2025, the global market value of AI is estimated to surpass 89 billion dollars annually. It means that organizations that don’t embrace this trend will lag.
#Cloud computing increases the impact and scope of AI. AI enables smooth workflows and increased efficiency. AI powers #Cloud computing by managing data and providing insights.
AI with cloud services gets businesses the most out of both services.
Investing in AI requires technical skill, computing power, and massive capital. However, via cloud solutions, AI technology is implemented without a huge investment.
7. Serverless Computing :
Serverless was among the top five fastest-growing Platform as a Service (PaaS). The demand for serverless computing is expected to grow by 25% from 2021 and 2026.
Serverless architecture allows companies to develop and run applications without having to manage the physical servers.
Cloud service providers will do all the scaling, maintenance, and upgrading.
For example, AWS offers serverless architecture. Your application still runs on their servers, but AWS does all the server management.
Serverless infrastructures scale fast. Its pricing model is based on usage. You spend only on the cloud services you need.
Companies can adopt a hybrid cloud with serverless platforms.
Serverless is a boon for developers of all kinds. It provides an easy way to create systems and applications.
8. Container and Kubernetes :
The trend of containers will continue to grow as cloud-specific apps are developed. Gartner predicts that, by 2022, more than 75% of organizations will be running containerized applications.
Containers are a faster path to better #Cloud computing applications.
It enables applications to increase developer velocity. Containers bring a greater level of consistency regardless of the infrastructure.
It makes Kubernetes a standard for running containerized applications at scale.
Container-based, cloud-native apps by Kubernetes offer attributes that build stacks of modern IT infrastructure.
Conclusion :-
As the cloud continues to grow, it will shape the future of business tech and provide many benefits.
Growth in cloud spending can be attributed to emerging technologies such as AI, edge computing, and containers.
Businesses seeking growth need to be prepared to embrace the future. It is important to be updated with the latest development in cloud technology.