Let’s start with a basic understanding of the Cloud Computing “value proposition”
“Cloud computing is a model for enabling convenient, on demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction.”
A client recently told me the following regarding his expectations of the Cloud:
Ok – that being said – there are some interesting myths about cloud computing that we want to share with you:
While this may be true to some extent the “pay as you go” model like Amazon EC2 in the long run may offer some cost savings by leveraging shared resources – today’s business requires more rigorous solutions. You can equate this to either buying a car or renting a car. If you simply need a finite amount of resources for a short period of time renting is a good option – however a “private” cloud allows IT managers with complete control of available assets while adhering to all security standards of the organization.
Virtualization provides more efficient utilization of existing resources and improved flexibility – reducing IT complexity, lowering IT costs, and enabling more flexibility in the IT deployment. Virtualization adds a convenient way for end users to request IT services and rapidly deploy the applications that are critical to the success of business.
Actually, the Cloud is the perfect place for mission critical applications. IT managers are looking to cut infrastructure costs, meet growing changes and deliver applications with speed. Without much time and effort Cloud computing can rapidly deliver on the promise of safe, secure and reliable IT resources – not to mention the cost savings.
There are several Cloud computing models, public cloud, private cloud, hybrid cloud – each of which has advantages/disadvantages. I personally suggest the hybrid cloud option. You have much more control and flexibility. I do suggest leveraging the resources of a qualified data center such as www.softlayer.com as well as contracting with a team of qualified engineers – our firm has been using resources in India for engineering support for over 10 years and it has been very successful.
