What is cloud computing? Learn about the advantages of the cloud!

According to EY research, at least 64% of companies have already implemented cloud solutions. But what is the cloud really? What is the reason for the popularity of the cloud? Is cloud infrastructure (IaaS) a better solution than keeping everything in-house (the so-called on-premises model)? These are the questions we will try to answer in this text. We invite you to join us!

Let’s start with the basics. Not so long ago, software (along with IT infrastructure) was “on-premise.” The enterprise kept it installed on the devices used by employees. This meant that each program had to be purchased and installed on a computer – only then could it be used. This business model has its advantages, but also quite a few disadvantages. First, this solution puts a strain on computers and other devices. Each program consumes disk space and slows down the device. Accessibility to such software is also hindered. To be able to work on it, you need to have with you the computer on which it is installed.

And here is the second approach – the applications and programs you use are stored within the so-called cloud services. Let’s talk a little more about this.

What is and how does cloud computing work? Definition and advantages of cloud computing

The cloud is a service (or IT model) in which all your applications are stored not in-house, but on external servers (often scattered around the world – so-called virtual machines) that you rent for your use. It doesn’t matter what operating system you have. With cloud computing, you don’t have to download anything to your computer, you don’t have to install or deploy anything – the programs you need are available via a web browser. The IT infrastructure (e.g. server room, databases, data center, i.e. data center and disk space) is provided by the service provider – the cloud provider. In other words, you rent all the computing power and resources you need to work from the company providing the cloud platform. You don’t have to worry about regular updates, security, and backups – you get it all “bundled”. A great example of such a model in practice is Google Drive, among others. Sounds good?

Types of cloud computing and cloud services

The cloud is divided into two main types (a third model – hybrid cloud – is also possible):

1. Public cloud: you rent space (including storage and computing power) with other companies (of course, you can have “your” cloud space, but you don’t have exclusive access to cloud services). The public cloud offers more savings compared to the private cloud.
2. Private cloud: you rent the space you need on an exclusive basis. The private cloud offers a higher level of security and safety and more flexibility, but it is also more expensive than the public cloud.

Of course, both types of cloud can be easily scaled according to the needs of the company. In both, you can process the same information, share the same files and manage the same applications.

Cloud types

There are several models in which the cloud works. The most popular are:

1. IaaS: Infrastructure as a Service. Under the cloud, you gain needed access to IT resources, including disk space and computing power.
2. PaaS: Platform as a Service. You gain network access to software and hardware tools.
3. SaaS: Software as a Service. The cloud allows you to use the software of your choice (like the aforementioned Google Drive).

Cloud service providers

On the market, you will find many providers offering cloud computing services. The majority of such providers give you not only access to cloud data and the tools you need but also access to the interface that manages everything. The most important cloud providers today are:

• Amazon AWS
• Microsoft Azure
• Google Cloud Platform

Do you want to know more about what cloud computing services look like? Or maybe you just want to learn more about cloud computing services? In either case, we invite you to contact us. Da Vinci Studio’s team will help you choose the optimal solution and access the necessary computing resources.