What Is Cloud Computing Architecture?
Cloud computing architecture refers to the sub-components required to deploy a Cloud-based service. A typical Cloud architecture includes both software and hardware but is primarily divided into the client interface of the front-end and the back-end supports which hosts the Cloud and delivers the services offered.
Firstly, it is important to understand the Cloud Computing Architecture involves not just data storage and similar Cloud infrastructure basics. An architecture or framework is only required when there is a need to create a Cloud environment for computing data.
So, a Cloud computing architecture involves a Platform as a Service (PaaS) or at least a Software as a Service (SaaS) from the client-end. The services offered however can include the Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), PaaS or SaaS.
The architecture itself is simple and created out of need. It is only the congregation of all components and their capabilities bundled together to create a Cloud and deployed as a platform that can run software applications on top.
Components of a Cloud Computing Architecture
- Client Infrastructure – The graphic user interface that defines how the client interacts with the Cloud. It is how the platform is made available to the user.
- Application – The software or platform providing the suite of software that’s provided.
- Service – Depends on the type of Cloud service offered to the user or client – IaaS, SaaS or PaaS.
- Runtime – Deploys the environment to host the Cloud and its related services.
- Storage – A vital component where all data are stored and categorized for easy sharing, accessibility, and deployment. Storage may be run as separate or integrated databases.
- Infrastructure – The total of hardware and software components which creates the Cloud and provides its computing power.
- Management – The central system which manages all the components and manages the security protocols.
- Security – Vital for safety against unwanted 3rd party intrusions into the Cloud.
- Internet – The medium via which different components interact and collaborate.
Only the Client Infrastructure is the front-end of a Cloud architecture while the remaining compile the back-end.
Types of Cloud Computing Architecture
Cloud computing architecture can vary, but here are the 4 main types:
- Public – The infrastructure and the Cloud created are not owned by the user and deployed for multiple users.
- Private – The Cloud is solely owned by the user, mostly on-premise, in concern and not accessible for others including a user-end firewall.
- Hybrid – Cloud environments with selectively private and public architecture that allows pre-determined accessibility and usage of resources.
- Multi-Cloud – This architecture involves more than one cloud which can be private or public and may even coalesce or collaborate.
Which Cloud Computing Architecture Do You Need?
Whether you are a business or an individual, the Cloud architecture you will need depends on your purpose and the services you require.
For instance, if you need Cloud services for a private app development environment, you should opt for a hybrid Cloud to allow limited but necessary access to another user. On the other hand, if you want to host your E-commerce website, you should opt for a private Cloud offering complete security protocols and zero access.