The most talked-about
term currently in the IT industry is cloud computing. Everyone is thinking
about cloud computing from different perspectives. Some emphasize the cost
benefits associated with it, while others are still cautious about security and
privacy. It has become extremely important to understand the key
defining features of cloud computing.
In cloud computing,
resources are pooled to serve a large number of customers. Cloud computing uses
multi-tenancy where different resources are dynamically allocated and
de-allocated according to demand. From the user’s end, it is not possible to
know where the resource actually resides.
The resource allocation
should be elastic, in the sense that it should change appropriately and quickly
with the demand. If on a particular day the demand increases several times,
then the system should be elastic enough to meet that additional need, and
should return to the normal level when the demand decreases.
Cloud computing is based on self-service and on-demand service models.
It should allow the user to interact with the cloud to perform tasks like
building, deploying, managing, and scheduling. The user should be able to
access computing capabilities as and when they are needed and without any
interaction from the cloud-service provider. This would help users to be in
control, bringing agility in their work, and to make better decisions on the
current and future needs.
Cloud computing does not
have any upfront cost. It is completely based on usage. The user is billed
based on the amount of resources they use. This helps the user to track their
usage and ultimately help to reduce cost. Cloud computing must provide means to
capture, monitor, and control usage information for accurate billing. The
information gathered should be transparent and readily available to the
customer. This is necessary to make the customer realize the cost benefits that
cloud computing brings.
Cloud computing must
assure the best service level for users. Services outlined in the service-level
agreements must include guarantees on round-the-clock availability, adequate
resources, performance, and bandwidth. Any compromise on these guarantees could
prove fatal for customers.
The decision to switch
to cloud computing should not be based on the hype in the industry. A good
understanding of the technology enables the user to make smarter decisions.
Knowing all the features will empower the business users to understand and
negotiate with the service providers in a proactive manner.
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