Cloud technology or cloud computing is the delivery of computing services over the Internet or “the cloud.” These computing services include servers, databases, networking, software, storage, analytics and more.
The way this technology works varies based on provider, but it commonly operates with a user-friendly, browser-based dashboard. Some services are designed to work with REST APIs and command-line interface (CLI).
Benefits of Using Cloud Technology
Cloud technology is a convenient and efficient way to organize and share your business’s data. With cloud computing, costs are lower because you won’t have to buy hardware and software or set up and run on-site data centers. You will also save on the cost of electricity for power and cooling. It is also possible that you will not be required to pay IT experts to manage the infrastructure, depending on the solution you choose, saving you a considerable amount of time and effort.
These computing services are also self-service and on-demand allowing for vast amounts of computing resources to be provisioned in minutes. They can also be scaled elastically, meaning the right amount of IT resources can be delivered when needed from a specific geographic location.
The secure data centers that cloud computing services run on are upgraded regularly with the fastest, most efficient computing hardware for top-quality performance. This helps to reduce network latency for applications and allows for greater economies of scale. They are also very reliable, allowing for data to be copied to multiple redundant sites on
the cloud in the provider’s network. This allows for easier and less expensive data backup and disaster recovery.
Versatile Cloud Service Options
The different types of cloud services can be separated into three broad categories including:
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)- This is the most basic of the cloud categories where you rent IT infrastructures such as servers, storage, and networks, from a cloud provider on a pay-as-you-go basis.
- Platform as a Service (PaaS)- This type of service supplies and on-demand environment for the development, delivery, testing, and managing of software applications. PaaS makes it easier for developers to set up web or mobile app by eliminating the need to set up up underlying infrastructure.
- Software as a Service (SaaS)- This is used to deliver software applications over the Internet. This service is on-demand and is typically paid for on a subscription basis. SaaS providers will host and manage both the software application and the underlying infrastructure. They will also handle the maintenance, such as security patching. Users can connect with the application over the Internet on their web browser, tablet, phone, or PC.
Flexible Cloud Deployment Options to Suit Your Business’s Needs
Each type of cloud service can be deployed in three different ways, including:
- Public Cloud- This type of cloud is owned and operated by a third-party service provider and will deliver the computing resources over the internet. All hardware, software, and supporting infrastructure is owned and managed by the provider and accessed by you through a web browser.
- Private Cloud- This type of cloud is exclusively used by a single business or organization. It can be physically located on the company’s on-site data center. All services and infrastructure on the private cloud are maintained on a private network. Companies can pay a third-party provider to host their cloud.
- Hybrid Cloud- This is a combination of public and private clouds connected with technology that allows data and application sharing between the two different clouds. This allows for more flexibility and deployment options for businesses who utilize the hybrid cloud.
Choosing the Best Cloud Services and Deployment Methods for Your Business
CMIT Solutions offers a variety of cloud technology and cloud hosting options. Pittsburgh businesses can benefit greatly from CMIT Solutions’ professional hosting services. We can help you design the perfect cloud solution for your business and can manage your cloud to help you avoid unexpected or unwelcomed surprises and prepare for growth when needed.
Our full-service cloud hosting allows Pittsburgh business owners to rest assured they are getting reliable support and expert management for their virtual data center.