1.0 Prerequisite: What is Cloud Computing?

1. What is Cloud Computing?

Definition

Cloud computing is a way to access computing services like storage, databases, and processing power over the internet, instead of owning and managing physical hardware.

Source: AWS

Key Features of Cloud Computing

Feature Description
On-Demand Self-Service Users can provision resources like storage or compute power whenever they need.
Access to the Network Resources are available over the internet and can be accessed from any location.
Resource Pooling Multiple users share resources, but each user’s data remains isolated and secure.
Elasticity Automatically scale resources up or down based on your needs.
Resource Usage Monitored/Billed You only pay for what you use, and usage is tracked automatically.

Cloud Deployment Models

There are three main ways cloud services can be deployed:

  • Public Cloud: Services are offered over the internet and shared among many customers. This is the most common model, with providers like AWS offering resources to anyone who needs them.
  • Private Cloud: A cloud that is used by a single organization. It offers more control and security but can be more expensive to maintain.
  • Hybrid Cloud: Combines public and private clouds, allowing data and applications to move between them. This gives flexibility to keep sensitive data private while still using public cloud resources for other tasks.

Cloud Service Models:

  • Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): IaaS gives you the most control. You manage things like virtual machines, storage, and networks, but the provider handles the physical hardware.
    • E.g. AWS EC2 lets you rent virtual servers, where you control the setup while AWS handles the hardware.
  • Platform as a Service (PaaS): PaaS allows you to focus on building and running applications without managing the underlying infrastructure. The platform takes care of things like servers and databases.
    • E.g. Google App Engine lets you upload your app code, and Google manages the servers and scaling for you.
  • Software as a Service (SaaS): SaaS provides fully-built applications that you can access over the internet. The provider handles everything, and you just use the app.
    • E.g. Gmail lets you send emails without worrying about the servers or storage, Google handles everything.

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