Understanding Cloud Computing: Types, Models, and Applications
CLOUD COMPUTING
The term cloud refers to a network or the internet. It is a technology that uses remote servers or the internet to store, manage, and access data online rather than local drivers. The data can be anything such as files, images, documents, audio, video, and more. There are several operations that we can do using cloud computing:
- Develop new applications and services.
- Store, backup, and recover data.
- Develop software on demand.
- Analyze data.
- Stream videos and audio.
Characteristics of Cloud Computing
On-demand self-services: The cloud computing services do not require any human administrators; users themselves can provision, monitor, and manage computing resources as needed. Broad network access: Computing services are generally provided over standard networks and heterogeneous devices. Resource pooling: IT resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) are shared across multiple applications and occupants in an uncommitted manner. Multiple clients are provided service from the same physical resource. Multi-tenancy: Cloud computing providers can support multiple tenants (users or organizations) on a single set of shared resources. Security: Cloud providers invest heavily in security measures to protect their users’ data and ensure the privacy of sensitive information.
TYPES OF CLOUD
Public Cloud Public cloud is open to all to store and access information via the Internet using the pay-per-usage method. In public cloud, computing resources are managed and operated by the Cloud Service Provider (CSP). The CSP looks after the supporting infrastructure and ensures that the resources are accessible to and scalable for the users. Due to its open architecture, anyone with an internet connection may use the public cloud, regardless of location or company size. Users can use the CSP’s numerous services, store their data, and run apps. By using a pay-per-usage strategy, customers can be assured that they will only be charged for the resources they actually use, which is a smart financial choice. Private Cloud Private cloud is also known as an internal cloud or corporate cloud. It is used by organizations to build and manage their data centers internally or by a third party. It can be deployed using open-source tools such as OpenStack and Eucalyptus. Hybrid Cloud Hybrid Cloud is a combination of the public cloud and the private cloud. We can say: Hybrid Cloud = Public Cloud + Private Cloud Hybrid cloud is partially secure because the services running on the public cloud can be accessed by anyone, while the services running on a private cloud can be accessed only by the organization’s users. In a hybrid cloud setup, organizations can leverage the benefits of both public and private clouds to create a flexible and scalable computing environment. The public cloud portion allows using cloud services provided by third-party providers, accessible over the Internet.
Cloud Service Models
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
IaaS is also known as Hardware as a Service (HaaS). It is a computing infrastructure managed over the internet. The main advantage of using IaaS is that it helps users avoid the cost and complexity of purchasing and managing physical servers. Resources are available as a service. Services are highly scalable. Dynamic and flexible. GUI and API-based access. Automated administrative tasks.
Platform as a Service (PaaS)
PaaS cloud computing platform is created for the programmer to develop, test, run, and manage applications. Accessible to various users via the same development application. Integrates with web services and databases. Builds on virtualization technology, so resources can easily be scaled up or down as per the organization’s need. Supports multiple languages and frameworks. Provides an ability to “Auto-scale”
Software as a Service (SaaS)
SaaS is also known as “on-demand software”. It is software in which the applications are hosted by a cloud service provider. Users can access these applications with the help of an internet connection and web browser. Managed from a central location. Hosted on a remote server. Accessible over the internet. Users are not responsible for hardware and software updates. Updates are applied automatically. The services are purchased on a pay-as-per-use basis.
Cluster Computing
Cluster computing defines several computers linked on a network and implemented like an individual entity. Each computer linked to the network is known as a node. Cluster computing provides solutions to solve difficult problems by providing faster computational speed and enhanced data integrity. The connected computers implement operations all together, thus generating the impression of a single system (virtual device). This procedure is defined as the transparency of the system.
Grid Computing
Grid Computing can be defined as a network of computers working together to perform a task that would be difficult for a single machine. All machines on that network work under the same protocol to act as a virtual supercomputer. The task that they work on may include analyzing huge datasets or simulating situations that require high computing power. Computers on the network contribute resources like processing power and storage capacity to the network. It is not centralized, as there are no servers required, except the control node, which is just used for controlling and not for processing. Multiple heterogeneous machines, i.e., machines with different Operating Systems, can use a single grid computing network. Tasks can be performed parallelly across various physical locations, and the users don’t have to pay for them (with money).
Distributed Computing
Distributed computing refers to a system where processing and data storage are distributed across multiple devices or systems, rather than being handled by a single central device. In a distributed system, each device or system has its processing capabilities and may also store and manage its data. These devices or systems work together to perform tasks and share resources, with no single device serving as the central hub. One example of a distributed computing system is a cloud computing system, where resources such as computing power, storage, and networking are delivered over the Internet and accessed on demand. In this type of system, users can access and use shared resources through a web browser or other client software.