The cloud is a network of remote servers where applications and databases can be run and accessible via the Internet. With this capability, users do not need to maintain data on local devices; instead, resources can be accessed remotely via the internet from anywhere in the world.
Cloud Computing
There are various ways to define cloud computing. In general, cloud computing is a methodology that facilitates the rapid scalability and high availability of resources.
National Institute of Standards Technology Definition
Cloud computing is a model for enabling ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction.
My Understanding of Cloud Computing
This technology allows computing services to be managed and distributed over the Internet based on demand, eliminating the need for physical servers.
Cloud Participants in Cloud Ecosystem
Multiple individuals contribute to this ecosystem, each with a specific role. The following are some of the participants and their roles:
Cloud Service Providers (CSPs): AWS, Microsoft Azure, GCP, IBM Cloud, and several intermediaries own, operate, and provide cloud infrastructure and services.
Cloud Users (Customers): Several entities, businesses, and individuals use cloud services from CSPs based on their needs, paying based on usage.
Cloud End Users: Individuals or systems engage with applications via the internet without understanding the underlying infrastructure of the cloud.
Cloud Developers: These individuals are architects, engineers, and software developers who are responsible for the development, creation, and maintenance of cloud-based applications.
Cloud Administrators: These individuals are located within the organization and are responsible for the management and monitoring of the organization's cloud resources, which include infrastructure security, optimization, and availability.
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Cloud Auditors: Cloud service providers are evaluated by distinct entities or organizations to verify whether they adhere to privacy, security, and standard protocols.
Working Principles of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing has a complex architecture with both front-end and back-end components that collaborate to distribute resources seamlessly over the Internet.
The front-end client systems provide global access to cloud resources.
Back-end services are provided by the Cloud Provider and include storage, computing, database, and networking components that accommodate user requests.
The front-end serves as an interface for users to engage with the cloud, facilitating the sending of requests over the internet to the back-end infrastructure, which is responsible for the data processing and storage.
In this way, users can interact with powerful computing resources over the internet, following their requirements, without the need to install physical hardware on their end.
Top comments (1)
Great breakdown of cloud computing basics. It’s amazing how the cloud ecosystem has simplified access to powerful resources without the need for heavy local infrastructure. This flexibility and scalability are game-changers for businesses and developers alike.
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