Guide to Cloud Computing Architectures

Guide to Cloud Computing Architectures

Technology evolves every day, and the last decade has seen a massive transformation that has brought about cost-efficient and streamlined operations in businesses. The rise in popularity of cloud computing technology is at the crux of digitization, a game-changer for businesses of all sizes and specialties.

Thanks to cloud computing, businesses can scale and achieve resilience through distributed processing, horizontal scaling, and automation in failed component replacement. The architectures have also taken a concise duration to mature and be availed to address the dynamic IT needs.

This short read covers the main components and types of cloud computing architectures available for organizations.

The Primary Elements of Cloud Computing

NIST offers the following five main characteristics of cloud computing infrastructure:

• Resource pooling – Cloud computing architectures pool computing resources in a multi-tenant system to serve multiple clients. Different virtual and physical resources are dynamically assigned based on customer demand.
• On-demand self-service – Cloud computing lets ordinary users provision network resources, storage, and computing capabilities as required without the help of support personnel.
• Broad network access – Users can access vital resources via standard network mechanisms for mobile devices and web platforms.
• Rapidly elastic – The main objectives of cloud computing are flexibility, agility, and the freedom to access vital resources on a global scale.
• Measured services – Cloud solutions facilitate management and optimization of subscribed resources via metering.

Types of Cloud Computing Architectures

Here are the available types of cloud computing architectures:

Private Cloud

This cloud infrastructure is ideal for the storage of sensitive data. The private cloud serves a single user and functions with firewall protection. Notably, in-house private clouds are suitable for organizations bound by strict regulatory requirements or dynamic business models. Only authorized users can access and utilize the computing resources, and the architecture offers security and controls.

Public Cloud

Public cloud solutions comprise both services and infrastructure shared among the provider’s clients. The available capacity is in vast amounts, so scalability is relatively more straightforward. The infrastructure is best suited for collaborative projects since you can test applications in a public cloud then finalize production in a private cloud. The public cloud landscape has a flexible cost structure and is ideal for non-sensitive data storage since they serve multiple customers in a shared infrastructure.

Hybrid Cloud

This architecture combines the best capabilities of private and public clouds. The two environments portray seamless interaction, and the data and applications move efficiently across.

A hybrid configuration simplifies the scalability of on-premise resources into off-premise infrastructure. This allows you to improve the way you respond to changing workflow demands and shifting business dynamics. You’ll also avoid potential threats by storing all your sensitive data in the private cloud.

Multi-Cloud 

If one public cloud solution can’t address all your computing needs, you can shift the multi-cloud architecture. The attributes are similar to those of the hybrid cloud, but it’s more complex since it combines a private cloud service with several public cloud solutions.

Typically, IT infrastructure comprises vast public cloud services from different vendors, and you can easily access the clouds via a single software-defined network. A multi-cloud system may have private clouds, but they are more isolated from their public counterparts. This cloud computing architecture is ideal if you wish to accommodate contrasting demands within your organization’s internal departments.

The Bottom Line

Your choice of cloud computing solution for your business depends on your technology service and business requirements. However, beginning the transition to cloud computing is no easy feat. Planning and designing the change can be challenging since much of the diligence is on your side.

Partnering with an experienced service provider like Schilling IT will help you make the proper selection and get the most from your cloud computing architecture. Reach out to us today for expert support as you transition to cloud computing.