While “cloud computing” is a popular buzz word right now, many small business owners may be unclear as to the cloud options available to them. Here are some basic definitions:
Public Cloud
With a public cloud, users from varying locations access the cloud via the Internet, typically in a pay-as-you-go format. This model makes public cloud a highly scalable, instantly accessible solution for enterprises and individuals needing to back up their data.
Security vulnerabilities can be a drawback of some public cloud providers, whose users may be submitting unencrypted data across the Internet without fully knowing where that data may be stored. Before opting for a public cloud solution, users should make sure they understand their provider’s security policies.
Private Cloud
Unlike public cloud, which serves a variety of unrelated customers, private cloud involves a single enterprise utilizing a shared, private, in-house network. Sometimes referred to as “internal cloud,” private clouds typically market themselves for their higher levels of security and reliability.
Private clouds offer IT managers more control over their data and infrastructure, making it simpler to ensure compliance with government regulations. However, private clouds can be more expensive than public ones, as they require on-site IT infrastructure and staff to maintain.
Hybrid Cloud
With a hybrid cloud, IT managers opt for either private or public cloud for various types of computing as they choose. For example, sensitive client files may be backed up in a private cloud while general, everyday computing is done in a public cloud. This is thought to provide a good balance between the security and customization of a private cloud and the simplicity and affordability of a public cloud.
So, what type of cloud computing is most popular?
According to a recent study from NetworkWorld, private cloud is currently the most readily adopted with public and hybrid cloud essentially tied for second, although all three are predicted to show increased implementation over the next 18 months. Of the three cloud options, smaller businesses (less than 1000 employees) were more likely to opt for public cloud than larger enterprises.
What does this mean? Although private cloud is currently the most popular form of cloud computing, IT managers and business owners are certainly concerned about scalability and flexibility when it comes to their data. Although private cloud will remain a good option for some enterprises, public and hybrid options will give many companies a simpler, more affordable solution.
Source: NetworkWorld