The basics of Cloud Computing

What is Cloud Computing

Cloud computing, simply put, is the use of "computing services" such as servers, storage, databases, and networks over the internet, or the "cloud". Unlike centralised physical computing, cloud computing is flexible, scalable, faster and more sustainable. It is also cost-efficient, as you generally only pay for the computing capacity you use.

Type Clouds

There are different ways to set up a cloud. Because the cloud is very easily accessible, there is often a perception that the cloud is synonymous with 'public'. This is a big misunderstanding. Clouds today are very secure and reliable and you are in control of how much you own. This is why three cloud computing models can be distinguished:

• Public Clouds

Public Cloud are web services that you purchase from an external party, such as Google, Microsoft or Amazon. This cloud provider manages all the hardware, infrastructure and security of the cloud. 

• Private Clouds

A Private Cloud is self-managed by a company or organisation. Computer services are physically available in the company's data centre and the cloud can be accessed via a private network. The hardware and infrastructure and security are the responsibility of the company itself. Often external parties can be hired to manage a private network. 

• Hybrid Clouds

Hybid clouds combine private and public computing services. These are brought together by software that enables the clouds to exchange data. 

Types of Cloud Services

There are an infinite number of cloud services available. Yet the basics of the cloud can be divided into four categories that rely on each other. 

• IaaS

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is the basic cloud service. This means that all the requirements for a solid IT infrastructure, such as storage, servers or networks, are purchased via the Internet from a cloud provider.

• PaaS

Platform as a Service (PaaS) provides developers with an environment, or platform to develop, test, provision and manage software on the Internet. This makes it possible to build applications quickly and efficiently, without worrying about the underlying infrastructure. 

• Serverless

Serverless Computing ensures that you no longer have to worry about the server when creating and hosting software. This applies to both the customer and the developer, making the software easier, faster and cheaper to build. The cloud provider distributes the workload and data of the software in a flexible and scalable way.

• SaaS

Software as a Service is the possibility of offering software as a service via the Internet. This is becoming more and more the norm these days. Users can use the software via the Internet. The provider ensures that the software remains up-to-date and safe. 

Applications

There are endless applications for cloud services, and with new technological developments, more and more forms are being added. Here are a number of frequently used applications:

• Storage and backup of files and data
  Many organisations store files on a cloud storage service. This ensures that you always have sufficient capacity, and can access your data anywhere on any device.

• Testing and building applications:
  By using a development environment in the cloud, it is possible to develop applications cheaper and faster. It is also easy to expand and develop. 
• Media streaming
  Netflix, Spotify and Videoland are all examples of services that make it possible to stream media from the cloud. 
• Creating web applications
  The cloud makes it possible to deploy applications built entirely on the cloud by using cloud services such as containers, Kubernetes.
• Analyse data
  When data flows in your cloud network, it is also possible to analyse this data. Technologies like Machine Learning and A.I. make it possible to gather valuable insights from cloud data traffic.

The video below explains cloud computing clearly and visually once more: