The Architecture Behind Cloud Technology

Cloud technology has really become indispensable in the digital age and just like many other things, cloud technology also has its own set of architecture behind it.

You can think of cloud architecture as the components of a cloud computing system and its method of organization. This also includes the relationships between these components.

For those getting started with cloud services, we will explain the intricacies of construction of cloud environments.

What is Cloud Architecture?

Cloud architecture can be defined as the combination of various technological components that make up a cloud system. This usually involves using virtualization technology to put together several resources and share them across a network. Cloud architecture also talks about the relationship between the various components of a cloud system and the benefits they deliver.

Clouds are considered Platforms-as-a-Service (PaaS) and a cloud provider supplies users with both the platform and the underlying IT infrastructure. Architecting a cloud platform requires more than just abstracting a computer’s capabilities from its hardware components, which is how providers create and offer cloud infrastructure to users.

Cloud architecture varies depending on what you’re trying to do but, most clouds requires additional levels of development to incorporate containment, orchestration, application programming interfaces (APIs), routing, security, management and automation software, not to mention, user experience design (UX) is also important in order to create an easy-to-navigate online experience.

Cloud Architecture Concepts

When cloud architects are trying to build their company’s cloud environment, they’re usually structuring it around 4 main concepts, thus allowing end-users to leverage the power of cloud resources.

The first concept is cloud infrastructure. Cloud infrastructure is the computer, storage, and network systems that cloud services run on. This concept takes advantage of virtualization in creating several resources that can be managed with a program.

The second concept is the cloud delivery model. This one includes the front-end and the back-end systems of the cloud platform. Front-end systems gain access to the cloud environment using the internet or a Virtual Private Network (VPN) link with a mobile app, web browser, or client-based software. On the other hand, the back-end includes the various cloud infrastructure resources, applications, and data. Furthermore, the delivery is usually done from several data centers to increase availability and data recovery.

The third concept is the cloud service model. This is the type of service rendered and they include Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS):

• IaaS provides the necessary infrastructure for cloud computing and eliminates the need to purchase servers, storage devices, or networks. Also, the software and applications are managed by the organization.
• PaaS helps in the building, creation, and management of applications. This model offers a computing platform that allows organizations to build upon to create applications or services as a service. This model involves the provision of servers, networks, and storage for hosting applications. The end-user utilizes all these in configuration settings and software deployment.
• SaaS hosts and manages end-user applications. Here, there’s no need to deploy applications and software locally. They are delivered and maintained over the internet and usually need a web interface to be accessed.

The fourth and final concept is the cloud deployment model. This concept talks about the access and governance of the cloud platform. They include private cloud, public cloud, hybrid cloud, and multi-cloud:

• Private cloud architecture is defined as a cloud environment solely dedicated to the end user, usually within the user’s firewall and sometimes on premise.
• Public cloud architecture is a cloud environment created from resources not owned by the end user that can be redistributed to other tenants.
• Hybrid cloud architecture is a multiple cloud environment with some degree of workload portability, orchestration, and management among them.
• Multi-cloud architecture is an IT system that includes more than 1 cloud—public or private—that may or may not be networked together.

The Benefits of Cloud Architecture

Creating a cloud environment through cloud architecture usage can only bring numerous benefits for the company and staff alike.

It will reduce the cost of provisioning since various managed services are virtually provisioned as and when cloud providers require. This removes the procurement and management responsibility and expenses from the heads of the business owners.

Also allowing auto recovery and scaling mechanisms that provide almost uninterrupted access to services over the internet. This leads to better disaster recoverability.

Additionally, all layers of the cloud infrastructure are secured with various security mechanisms like data encryption, patch management, and monitoring policies to keep the cloud secure from malicious attacks.

Last but not least, Overall reduction of effort on the setup and management and setup of an infrastructure for your business.

Conclusion

Cloud technology is always going to be popular from here on out, and what better way to create your own cloud ecosystem by structuring a solid cloud architecture.

Xcidic truly believes in the power of cloud technology. We alongside our partner UpCloud are ready to provide all the things necessary for you to create your dream cloud ecosystem. Visit our website if you are interested!