A Beginner’s Guide to Cloud Computing

In a short time, cloud computing has become a major part of every industry. Still, cloud computing is surrounded by much confusion. It is still in the development phases, and whether you are an expert in the field or an amateur, some extra information always helps. Here we will discuss cloud computing, what it is, and what the future holds for this concept.

What is Cloud Computing and How Does It Work?

In early times, companies had to build a whole server room and manage on-site storage. But on-site storage has many loopholes that can potentially harm the entire company. Problems include:

• High cost.
• Data loss threat in case of a power surge.
• Information is only present in one location.
• Moreover, it made it difficult to share work until cloud computing.

Cloud computing is a system that allows storage, development, or sharing platform whenever you like. The complete data is accessible in off-premises cloud servers. Although it may require a high-end internet connection to access, download and upload data, the solution is already present. Most companies already use fiber internet, which is fast, reliable, and good for large-scale work.

Even though its name is Cloud storage, that doesn’t mean it is a floating server somewhere in space. Instead, the cloud servers are maintained and managed by third-party businesses providing cloud services, like traditional hardware. So, when you upload any data to the cloud, it gets stored in local servers operated by the host business, like Amazon or Google. So, yes, it is somewhat similar and old-fashioned, but instead of everyone having to set up a storage room inside a business, now it’s outsourced.

However, as compared to on-site set-upset-up, cloud storage is much cheaper, better, and faster. The first ever cloud computing server was started by Amazon under the name of Amazon AWS. It was the first ever cloud computing service provider, making it very successful, but things change with time. Now it has competitors in the form of Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud. These companies have many data centers across the globe that ensures no matter wherever you are; you have access to your information at your fingertips.

Types of Cloud Computing

Like any other thing, cloud computing also has different models for varying needs. Moreover, the services vary according to the business. So first, we look at the deployment models of cloud computing.

1. Public Cloud

It is managed by third-party service providers that handle all the hardware, software, and support needs. Examples include Amazon AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.

2. Private Cloud

It is managed by the business or organization and is exclusive to only those. Examples include VMware, Dell EMC, and Openstack.

3. Hybrid Cloud

It is a blend of the previous two types. All the settings and applications are movable between private and public clouds and are more flexible with more deployment options.

Now, we look at the types of services available.

1. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

It is an infrastructure service, scalable up and down and controlled over the internet. The service provider manages the settings and applications while you work on the required components.

2. Platform as a Service (PaaS)

It is a good platform-based service that you can purchase from the service provider and avoid managing different software. After purchase, the service provider will handle the rest.

3. Software as a Service (SaaS)

It is a complete server solution that you can purchase and enable connection to cloud-based applications. The service provider will manage the rest of the software and hardware.

4. Serverless Working

Serverless computing is easy to work on without the hassle of managing infrastructure. The service provider handles everything, and you just have to work.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Cloud computing is a great way to manage all your data and business needs easily, but it is not without issues. Here are the benefits and disadvantages of cloud computing.

• Pros
• Gives technology access to every business, no matter how big or small.
• You can focus more on work and less on the management of work.
• Apart from the exceptions like areas with high latency or rural internet, it is easy to maintain, and you can work from anywhere in the world with a stable network.
• Better security and reliability.
• Cons
• You need a stable and fast internet connection to make use of it.
• Less confidentiality of data.
• Less control over settings and maintenance.
• More open to hackers.

The Age of Cloud

Cloud computing created a surge of advancement and cleared issues faced by many businesses. It is an ideal way of storing, managing, and sharing data with multiple devices over the internet.

At first, it was a basic idea that has now developed to be so much more with roots in every niche, including arts, finance, business, education, entertainment, etc. It is a thing of the future that is capable of changing the future of how we work.