What is Cloud Computing? The Basics You Need to Know
Last week, while returning from Akwanga with my family, I was reading abbreviations on billboards and quizzing my little brother on their full meanings. He got every single one right until I asked him what IaaS meant, and he couldn’t answer. That was when it dawned on me that a large amount of people are barely informed about cloud computing concepts. If you’re one of those people, then this article is for you!
So, what does the cloud mean?
Contrary to what many people think, the cloud isn’t some mystical data floating in the sky. It’s essentially a device, called a server, that stores data and can be accessed with an internet connection. A data center is a physical facility where a collection of these servers are kept and managed. So basically, the cloud is just another computer that isn’t yours!
Now What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is the ability to access computing services (like storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, e.t.c) ON DEMAND. “On demand” means that as long as you have access to an internet, you can store, access, and retrieve your data, applications, files, images, etc., whenever you want, within seconds.
So with cloud, There are different deployment models, which determines exactly how you want your data to be stored.
If you want to keep your data private and have full control over the device, physical configuration, and security, the Private Cloud model is the best choice. In this model, You buy, own and manage the device.
But what If you prefer to host your data on the cloud without having to deal with physical configurations and the higi haga of managing cooling, internet, and safety of your device? In this case you opt for a Public Cloud. This means you are patronizing a cloud service provider (like Google Cloud Platform, AWS, or Microsoft Azure) that manages the entire backend bruhaha, while you focus on hosting your applications and handling some little user interface stuff.
Your third option combines both private and public clouds. You may want to host sensitive data on your physical device while hosting less critical applications on a public cloud. This deployment model is called the Hybrid Cloud. It could be more expensive but offers flexibility.
Next, let’s talk about the different cloud service models. What kind of service do you want to host on the cloud?
If you need to host a software like a streaming platform, a gaming app or an email service, go for the Software as a Service (SaaS). This model lets you host software in the cloud without managing any underlying hardware or configuration. You need no prior technical knowledge. Examples include Netflix, Gmail, Microsoft Office 365, e.t.c.
In a case where you need a platform to host something like a website, and still have the tools to build, run, edit, test, and manage your applications, choose the Platform as a Service (PaaS). This service is popular among developers. Think of it like using Wix, Wordpress or Squarespace to build a website; you get all the tools you need without worrying about the underlying infrastructure.
The Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) however comes to play when you need computing resources over the internet. Just like you purchase your laptop based on specifications like the CPU processing speed, RAM size, storage size, and then decide on a preferred operating system (like Windows or Linux), subscribing to an IaaS is the same. You provide your preferred specification and a virtual machine is created for you. For a more relatable example, consider how Dropbox and OneDrive store your files; they use IaaS to provide the storage and compute power behind their services.
For a clearer analogy of these three service models, let’s use the concept of building a house:
- IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): This is like having a piece of land for your building. You purchase your building materials, tools, figure out the design, construction and furnishing yourself .
- PaaS (Platform as a Service): In this case, imagine having a building carcass (a pre-built structure with a roof and basic framework). With this foundation, you can build upon it, adding doors, windows, electrical wiring, and customizing the interior to your needs.
- SaaS (Software as a Service): With SaaS, you are purchasing an already built and furnished house. You don’t need to worry about building anything; you just move in and enjoy your home!
I hope this explanation gives you a clear insight into cloud computing. If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask!
Love as always,
Benazir.
