Cloud Computing Notes
1. Introduction to Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is a distributed computing system that enables on-demand access to
computing resources such as servers, storage, databases, networking, software, and
analytics over the internet. It follows a pay-as-you-go model, reducing infrastructure costs
and providing scalability and flexibility.
2. Definition and Need for Cloud Computing
Definition: Cloud computing is an internet-based computing model where shared resources,
software, and information are provided to computers and devices on demand.
Need:
• Scalability: Easily scale up or down based on workload demands.
• Cost Efficiency: Pay only for what you use, reducing capital expenditure.
• Global Accessibility: Access from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Rapid Deployment: Quickly launch applications without complex setup.
• Disaster Recovery: Data replication ensures minimal downtime and data loss.
• Focus on Core Business: Reduces infrastructure management overhead.
• Innovation & Experimentation: Enables testing new ideas with minimal risk.
3. Characteristics of Cloud Computing
• On-Demand Self-Service: Users can provision computing resources without human
intervention.
• Broad Network Access: Resources are accessible over the internet from multiple devices.
• Resource Pooling: Multiple users share pooled computing resources dynamically.
• Rapid Elasticity: Resources can scale automatically based on demand.
• Measured Service: Users pay based on their actual consumption.
4. Types of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing can be classified based on deployment models and service models.
A. Deployment Models
• Public Cloud: Services available to the general public via third-party providers (e.g., AWS,
Google Cloud).
• Private Cloud: Dedicated infrastructure for a single organization, ensuring greater security
and control.
• Hybrid Cloud: A combination of public and private clouds, allowing workload distribution.
• Community Cloud: Shared infrastructure among organizations with common interests
(e.g., government, healthcare).
B. Service Models
• Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Provides virtualized computing resources such as VMs,
storage, and networking (e.g., AWS EC2).
• Platform as a Service (PaaS): Provides a platform for developing, running, and managing
applications (e.g., Google App Engine).
• Software as a Service (SaaS): Delivers software applications over the internet (e.g., Google
Drive, Microsoft Office 365).
• Business Process as a Service (BPaaS): Automates and manages business operations (e.g.,
payroll processing).
5. Virtualization in Cloud Computing
Virtualization enables multiple virtual environments on a single physical hardware by using
a hypervisor.
Types of Virtualization:
• Server Virtualization: Multiple virtual servers run on a single physical server.
• Storage Virtualization: Storage resources are combined and managed as a single entity.
• Network Virtualization: Virtual networks are created within a physical network.
• Desktop Virtualization: User desktops are hosted on centralized servers.
• Application Virtualization: Applications run independently of the underlying OS.
6. Cloud Security and Challenges
• Security Concerns: Data breaches, identity theft, compliance issues.
• Downtime Risks: Dependence on internet connectivity can cause service interruptions.
• Vendor Lock-in: Difficulty in migrating services between cloud providers.
• Data Privacy: Compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).
7. Future Trends in Cloud Computing
• Edge Computing: Data processing closer to the source to reduce latency.
• AI & Machine Learning: Cloud platforms integrating AI services for automation.
• Serverless Computing: Developers can deploy code without managing infrastructure.
• Quantum Computing: Cloud-based quantum computing is emerging for complex problem-
solving.
