Cloud infrastructure essentially virtualizes computing resources to a cloud that can be accessed remotely. With cloud infrastructure, one single, physical computer does not make up the entire system of resources; instead, virtualized resources work together to provide service on demand.
Because of cloud infrastructure’s flexibility and customizable nature, there are a few different organization models for these resources. The way a cloud is organized, the cloud service deployment option, falls into one of three categories: public, private, or hybrid clouds.
Public cloud
Public cloud models are the most popular model for cloud computing. Public cloud models are a system in which the cloud resources are accessed by users over the internet. Public cloud resources, such as the servers, storage, applications, and all hardware and software, are owned and maintained by a third-party provider and remotely delivered to users. The main feature of a public cloud is that they provide low-cost and highly scalable resources.
Public cloud resources are highly accessible since they only require the use of a web browser to access. Additionally, they are not resource or cost-intensive for the users since many different users are accessing the resources provided by the cloud service provider. Public cloud models are generally used for web-based email and cloud storage solutions, supplement resource requirements, and test and develop software.
The advantages of public cloud models are that it is low cost, low maintenance, highly scalable, and highly flexible. The disadvantages of public cloud are that they offer limited security features and infrastructure control and customization.
Private cloud
A private cloud model is a system in which only one organization can access the cloud resources. It is still a cloud model in that it uses various devices to supply resources, but these devices do not operate with any shared environments. In a private cloud model, resources may be located entirely off-site or on-site, depending on preference. Additionally, because of the privacy of the private cloud, all resources are delivered by a private network.
Private cloud models emphasize control and security for users. The private cloud model is ideal for organizations with very specific resource, IT, or privacy requirements. For example, a private cloud model is best for handling sensitive data, for organizations operating in highly regulated industries, and for very large businesses with specific needs.
The advantages of private cloud infrastructure are that it is highly customizable, private, and the organization has the maximum amount of control over the resources of the three cloud infrastructure models. The disadvantages are that it is less scalable and much more expensive when compared to public cloud models.
Hybrid cloud
A hybrid cloud model is a system in which the cloud resources are delivered in private and public models. In a hybrid cloud system, some resources are dedicated entirely to one organization, while supplemental resources are provided online in a public model.
Hybrid cloud models are a perfect middle-ground for businesses wanting the privacy and control of a private cloud environment and the flexibility of a public cloud model. Hybrid cloud models are most useful for companies that are growing and developing or testing out cloud features. Additionally, hybrid cloud systems allow organizations to invest further in their security when compared to public cloud systems. It is also a good match for organizations that need to deliver varying requirements across their infrastructure.
The advantages of a hybrid cloud are that it gives you more control over what infrastructure is used and when. Additionally, it offers more control over costs as you can reduce or increase features as needed. Finally, it provides more security than just a public cloud environment does.
