Introduction to Cloud Computing

Introduction to Cloud Computing

• Cloud computing provides a means to access applications as utilities over the internet
• Users can create, configure, and customize applications online
• Users can access database resources via the internet from anywhere as needed, without managing the resources themselves

What is Cloud?

• Cloud refers to a network or the internet
• A cloud is something located at a remote location
• Cloud services can be delivered on public networks (e.g., WAN, LAN) or private networks (e.g., VPN)
• Applications like email, web conferencing, and CRM are examples of cloud-based services

What is Cloud Computing?

• Cloud computing involves manipulating, configuring, and accessing applications online
• Cloud computing offers online data storage, infrastructure, and applications
• Cloud computing combines software and hardware-based computing resources delivered as a network service

Cloud Computing Architecture

• Cloud computing architecture connects users with storage, application, and infrastructure components through a cloud

Basic Concepts

• Deployment Models categorize how a cloud is accessed (Public, Private, Hybrid, Community)
• Service Models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS) describe different cloud service types

Deployment Models

• Deployment models define cloud accessibility, specifying the location of the cloud
• Cloud access can be public, private, hybrid, or community

Public Cloud

• Public clouds are accessible to the general public
• They often have a lower level of security compared to other cloud types

Private Cloud

• Private clouds are accessible to a specific organization
• They offer increased security due to their private nature

Community Cloud

• Community clouds are accessible to a group of organizations
• They share resources and infrastructure within the group

Hybrid Cloud

• Hybrid clouds combine features of public and private clouds
• Critical activities are typically performed using a private cloud, while non-critical activities are performed using a public cloud

Service Models

• Service Models are reference models for Cloud Computing
• They categorize cloud computing into three categories: IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

• IaaS delivers technology infrastructure as an on-demand, scalable service
• Provides fundamental resources like physical machines, virtual machines, and virtual storage
• Typically billed based on usage
• Usually a multi-tenant, virtualized environment
• Can be combined with managed services for OS and application support

Platform as a Service (PaaS)

• PaaS provides a runtime environment for applications, along with development and deployment tools
• Offers facilities for the complete lifecycle of building and delivering web applications
• Applications are typically developed considering the specific platform
• Multi-tenant environments are common
• Highly scalable multi-tier architecture is a key feature

Software as a Service (SaaS)

• SaaS allows users to access software applications as a service
• It’s a software delivery methodology for licensed multi-tenant access to software and its functionalities through a web-based service
• Typically billed based on usage
• Usually a multi-tenant environment
• Highly scalable architectures are common

Advantages of Cloud Computing

• Lower computer costs
• Improved performance
• Reduced software costs
• Instant software updates
• Improved document compatibility
• Unlimited storage capacity
• Increased data reliability
• Universal document access
• Latest version availability
• Easier group collaboration
• Device independence

Disadvantages of Cloud Computing

• Requires a constant internet connection
• Does not work well with low-speed connections
• Features might be limited
• Can be slow
• Stored data might be lost
• Confidentiality issues for stored data

Cloud Storage

• Create an account using a username and password
• Content is stored in the cloud linked to the account
• Access content from any computer with Wi-Fi

Downloading for Storage

• Download a cloud-based app to your computer
• The app resides on your computer
• Save files using the app
• The app synchronizes with the cloud when connected to the internet
• Access the cloud from any internet connection