Extra Notes - Cloud Computing

What is cloud computing : it is a service provided with virtualization. Virtualization refers to using virtual electronic services by an organization to remove ocation dependency , enabling users to connect , interact via networks .

he group of networked elements providing services need not be individually addressed or managed by users; instead, the entire provider-managed suite of hardware and software can be thought of as an amorphous cloud.(Wikipedia)

a) Infrastructure as a service - Provides virtualisation for a business A third party provider host virtually all the resources required by a company – that is software, hardware, server’s storage and other elements of infrastructure The third party will handle all maintenance, back up recovery etc. Effectively a small company can outsource its entire computing provision to a cloud provider Some discussion on advantages about not needing expensive people, machines etc or discussion about over reliance on third party etc

b) Platform as a service - Provides an environment that allows developers to build applications and services Might be a point and click development environment where key components have already been built (almost off the shelf) These services are managed by the cloud provider. Usually a subscription service Advantage – company does not have to purchase an infrastructure, using existing pre-build apps should increase security. Disadvantages – reliance on third party code, reliance on cloud provider etc

c) Software as a service - Removes the need for an internal data centre A third party hosts the data, and performs all the associated backup and recovery. May be a pay as you go style contract Allows the ability to upscale or downscale depending on requirements Does not required expensive on expensive highly trained individuals But does rely on the third party provider

Extra - Mobile "backend" as a service (MBaaS)

backend as a service (BaaS), web app and mobile app developers are provided with a way to link their applications to cloud storage and cloud computing services with application programming interfaces (APIs) exposed to their applications and custom software development kits (SDKs). Services include user management, push notifications, integration with social networking services^[78] and more. (Wikipedia)