The terms hybrid computing and cloud computing have been in
the news for some time but, for many people, they are confusing and ambiguous
terms. So what is hybrid cloud computing?
In very simple terms it is when an organization uses both
the public cloud and their private cloud to do their computing. This needs
further explanation before this concept can be properly understood.
The Public and
Private Cloud
In cloud computing, the term cloud is a metaphor for the
internet, so cloud computing is computing using computers linked though an
internet connection, utilizing shared computing resources.
The public cloud is cloud computing where a company uses a
third-party vendor to supply computing services in the form of servers,
software applications, and data storage over the internet. Another form of
public cloud computing is where a service provider provides a service to the
public, for example, social networking services.
A key aspect of the public cloud is that it is available to
the public who share the resources provided by the vendor.
A private cloud is similar to the public cloud, except that
it is run privately for use by an organization and is behind that
organization's firewall. It has many of the same features, but the essential
difference is that the resources are owned and controlled by the company. Some
companies choose this solution because of security concerns.
What Is Hybrid
Cloud Computing?
If your operation is large, and you use both your own
network of interconnected servers and those of a third party web-based service
provider so that your applications and data are spread over these servers, you
are performing hybrid cloud computing, as, your computing and, specifically
your data, is shared between the private and public cloud.
Another form of hybrid computing is cloud storage, where a
company would store critical data in their private cloud and other data in the
public cloud.
Management of the
Hybrid Cloud
The hybrid cloud is a great concept, freeing critical
resources and providing flexible off-site resources that can meet short term
needs.
However, if it is to function efficiently, it is important
that the cloud is properly mapped out, that a database of all critical
parameters is maintained, and that you have a management strategy in place to
administer change control, data security, fault monitoring, and resource
management.
Another consideration is the availability of, and access
to, essential critical applications and data. This can be achieved by ensuring
that critical information is stored within the company's private cloud so that
access is unaffected should external network issues affect access to their
public cloud
What Is Hybrid Cloud
Computing All About?
A common use of the hybrid cloud is to expand your data
storage capability without the purchase of additional hardware. This is
especially useful if your need is transient or temporary, such as for a product
launch, political campaign, or major project. This is often called cloud
bursting, where applications move from the private cloud to the public cloud to
take advantage of additional computing resources available in the public cloud.
Another reason for hybrid computing is cost, as instead of
purchasing more servers for your internal data center, it may be more cost
effective to use the servers of a cloud service provider, such as AWS or
Rackspace.
Companies and organizations with global operations can use
hybrid cloud computing to provide their operations with readily available and
reasonably secure access, taking advantage of the internet's resilience.
Users of Hybrid
Computing
Hybrid computing is a growth industry and Gartner predicts
that by 2017, 50% of enterprises will adopt it. In many ways, hybrid cloud
computing offers the best solution for large and diverse organizations.
Bit by Bit can provide the resources and expertise to make
your move to the cloud a success, if you would like to learn more, please contact
me at 800.860.5831 x190
