cloud computing basics notes

Cloud Computing Basics Notes

Introduction

Cloud computing is a model of delivering computing services over the internet, where resources such as servers, storage, databases, software, and applications are provided as a service to users on-demand. This approach allows users to access and use computing resources without the need to manage and maintain physical infrastructure.

Key Characteristics

• On-Demand Self-Service**: Users can provision and de-provision resources as needed, without requiring human intervention.
• Broad Network Access**: Resources are accessed over the internet or a private network, from any device, anywhere in the world.
• Multitenancy**: The cloud infrastructure is shared among multiple users, with each user’s resources isolated from others.

• Rapid Elasticity**: Resources can be quickly scaled up or down to match changing business needs.

• Metered Pricing**: Users pay only for the resources they use, rather than a fixed cost for a dedicated infrastructure.

Cloud Service Models

There are three main cloud service models:

• IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service)**: Provides virtualized computing resources, such as servers, storage, and networking.

• PaaS (Platform as a Service)**: Offers a complete platform for developing, running, and managing applications, including tools, libraries, and infrastructure.

• SaaS (Software as a Service)**: Delivers software applications over the internet, eliminating the need for users to install, configure, and maintain software on their own devices.

Cloud Deployment Models

There are four main cloud deployment models:

• Public Cloud**: A cloud infrastructure provided by a third-party provider, available to the general public.
• Private Cloud**: A cloud infrastructure provisioned and managed within an organization’s own premises, for exclusive use by that organization.
• Hybrid

  Cloud**: A combination of public and private cloud infrastructure, allowing data and applications to be shared between the two.

• Community Cloud**: A cloud infrastructure shared among multiple organizations with similar interests or goals.

Benefits of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing offers numerous benefits, including:

• Increased flexibility and scalability**: Resources can be quickly scaled up or down to match changing business needs.
• Improved reliability and availability**: Cloud providers typically offer high uptime and redundancy, ensuring that applications and data are always available.
• Reduced capital and operational expenses**: Users only pay for the resources they use, rather than a fixed cost for a dedicated infrastructure.
• Enhanced collaboration and productivity**: Cloud-based applications and services enable real-time collaboration and communication among team members, regardless of location.