What is cloud computing? Types and applications

The goals of every e-commerce company (regardless of the country in which it is located) should primarily be to increase efficiency, including profit, expenditures, security of its IT systems and scalability. In this case, cloud computing can be helpful, which in recent years (especially during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic) has revolutionized the way data is stored and processed. This allows companies and organisations to rent computing power instead of building their own data centres. But what is cloud computing, and what are its applications? You can read about it in the article below.

Cloud computing – what is it?

If we want to explain cloud computing in the simplest way possible, we can say that it allows you to rent IT infrastructure instead of buying it. In other words, it is a model for delivering IT resources, such as servers, storage, analytics, databases, and software for companies or applications, via the Internet. This allows businesses to benefit from flexible, scalable resources on demand instead of investing in expensive, on-premises data centres.

Main features of cloud computing:

• Scalability – the ability to adapt resources to the user’s current needs.
• Flexibility – access to IT infrastructure without having to buy it.
• Cost reduction – no need to invest in equipment and its maintenance.
• Security – modern mechanisms for data and infrastructure protection.

4 types of cloud computing – pros and cons of each solution

1. Public cloud

A public cloud is a type of cloud that almost everyone uses, but very often unknowingly. It is open and available to all Internet users. Resources are shared by multiple customers, allowing for a lower cost of ownership. An example of such cloud computing is Google Drive.

Advantages:

• Scalability to a large extent,
• No need to invest in infrastructure,
• Global availability.

Disadvantages:

• Less control over your data.
• Possible additional costs associated with increasing computing power.

2. Private Cloud

A private cloud is cloud computing used exclusively by one organisation. Access to the data stored in it is limited. In fact, it can only be used by selected users. This increases the level of security of the files themselves and the use of the cloud. It can be located in the company’s data centre or managed by a third-party provider.

Advantages:

• Full control over resources,
• Increased security,
• Customizable.

Disadvantages:

• Higher cost of living.
• The need to manage infrastructure.

3. Hybrid cloud

A hybrid cloud combines the features of a public and private cloud, enabling organisations to manage data and resources flexibly.

Advantages:

• Optimal use of resources,
• Ability to store sensitive data locally,
• Flexibility in workload management.

Disadvantages:

• Complexity of implementation,
• Although the need to integrate IT systems is worth considering, this does not have to be a disadvantage. Such integrations are primarily aimed at improving the entire company’s or its area’s functioning. This increases process efficiency, which in turn brings savings.

4. Multicloud

Multicloud is a strategy that uses the services of different cloud providers, which avoids lock-in to a single operator.

Advantages:

• Reduction of the risk of failure,
• Ability to choose the best services from different providers,

Disadvantages:

• The complexity of management,
• Higher operating costs.

Applications of cloud computing

Cloud computing is used in many sectors of the economy. Here are the most common scenarios for its use:

• Development and test environments: The cloud allows you to quickly develop and test applications, eliminating the need to invest in expensive hardware.
• Data storage: Companies can store huge amounts of data in the cloud and be sure of its high level of security.
• Data analytics and Big Data: The cloud allows you to process large data sets, supporting business analytics and machine learning.
• Website hosting and e-commerce: Online stores and portals can operate in the cloud, ensuring high availability and speed for users around the world.
• Backup and recovery: Cloud computing allows you to store backups, ensuring data security in case of failure.

ExoOne Cloud – the private cloud for your company

One of the modern cloud solutions available on the market is ExoOne Cloud. It is a proprietary cloud solution from Exorigo Upos that provides companies with an efficient, scalable, and secure IT environment. With it, you can improve your business processes and company operations.

In which business areas will ExoOne Cloud work? These are, m.in, the following:

• Development and test environments,
• Implementation and training systems,
• Creating production copies for testing purposes,
• Support for online stores.

In addition, it is worth mentioning that ExoOne Cloud is, in other words, a budget cloud environment prepared for a specific architecture. Its most important advantages include:

• One-Stop-Shop – comprehensive cloud service in one place.
• 24/7 support – access to IT experts around the clock.
• Dedicated EXO solutions – tailored to the specific needs of customers.
• Operational readiness and security – ensuring high availability and data protection.

ExoOne Cloud also allows you to access tools, apps, and data from anywhere in the world, so you have no limit.