Cloud Computing Demystified: Key Benefits, Models, and Use Cases

Cloud computing refers to the utilization of hosted services; for example, using Google Cloud computing architecture components like:

• Data storage
• Servers
• Databases
• Networking
• Software

These services are accessible remotely via the internet. Using cloud services allows for greater flexibility and scalability than computing only on-premises. Instead of relying on local servers or personal devices, data is stored on physical servers maintained by a cloud service provider (CSP). This model facilitates on-demand access to computing resources, allowing users to take advantage of these services without direct active management.

The structure of cloud computing comprises two main layers: the front end and the back end. The front-end layer is what users interact with to access stored data through various interfaces and applications. The back-end layer consists of the essential hardware and software that store and process data securely, including servers, databases and central servers. Users can access cloud services from any location with an internet connection.

Cloud computing’s evolution started in the 1960s and gained momentum in the early 2000s with the introduction of modern cloud infrastructure. Companies like Amazon Web Services(AWS) pioneered cloud-based storage and computing services. Today, major cloud service providers own and operate extensive data centers, offering high-speed networking and virtualized IT infrastructure that form the backbone of modern cloud computing.

Cost savings is one of the most prominent benefits of cloud computing. By using cloud services, companies can:

• Avoid the substantial expenses associated with buying hardware and software, setting up and running on-site data centers
• Only pay for the services they use, reducing operating costs and enabling scalability
• Prevent overbuilding and overprovisioning of data centers, leading to efficient resource utilization and further cost reduction

Cloud computing helps organizations save money and allocate resources more effectively.

Additionally, cloud computing provides:

• Elastic scaling to ensure that the right amount of resources is available when needed, enhancing operational efficiency
• More accessible data, fostering a more connected and productive work environment

Another critical advantage of cloud computing is its ability to support communication tools. Services like email, messaging and social networking platforms are seamlessly integrated into cloud environments.

The hybrid cloud model offers additional flexibility. Organizations can use public cloud resources for temporary needs while maintaining control over sensitive data in a private cloud.

The three primary deployment models for cloud computing services are public cloud, private cloud and hybrid cloud. Each model presents unique advantages and provides different levels of control, security and resource sharing.

The different cloud models include:

• Public cloud: Services provided over the public internet by third-party providers, accessible to multiple users.
• Private cloud: A dedicated environment designed for a single organization, offering enhanced security and control
• Hybrid cloud: Leverages both public and private cloud features, allows data and applications to be shared between environments and provides flexibility and deployment options.

Public Cloud

Third-party providers own and operate, offering on-demand resources that can be accessed over the Internet. In this model, multiple users access remote servers connected to form a singular network. Large cloud service providers like Microsoft and Amazon host public clouds that can accommodate numerous users simultaneously.

One of the primary benefits of public clouds is that they are maintained by CSPs, so businesses do not have to manage their own IT hardware and networks. Organizations can focus on their core activities while leveraging the scalability and flexibility offered by public cloud services. Plus, public cloud services facilitate IT automation, which unlocks new business agility.

Private Cloud

Private clouds are dedicated environments designated for a single organization, ensuring heightened control and security. This model offers:

• Self-service
• Scalability
• Elasticity
• Control and customization
• Security

Unlike public clouds, the computing resources in a private cloud are used exclusively by a single business or organization. They can be physically located on the company’s onsite data center.

One of the significant advantages of private clouds is the greater stability they offer, as their resources are not shared with other users. This isolation ensures that the performance of the cloud environment is consistent and reliable. Private clouds also provide superior control and security. They are ideal for businesses that handle sensitive data and require stringent compliance with regulatory standards.

Private clouds may be managed and owned by the organization itself. They are often the best choice for companies that need to maintain high levels of data security and management.

Hybrid Cloud

Hybrid clouds combine features of both public and private clouds, facilitating the sharing of data and applications across environments. This model provides flexibility and increased deployment options, making it a popular choice for businesses seeking the best of both worlds.

The hybrid cloud model enables organizations to maintain their private cloud for baseline security while scaling with public cloud services as needed. This approach offers the flexibility to handle varying workloads and provides a balance between cost efficiency and control over sensitive data.

It is important to consider and carefully manage the complexities hybrid cloud can introduce, such as: 

• Self-service
• Governance and compliance
• Resource management
• Financial controls
• Capacity planning

Cloud computing services can be broken down into four categories:

1. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
2. Platform as a Service (PaaS)
3. Software as a Service (SaaS)
4. Serverless computing

Each service type has its own unique features and benefits, which we review below.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

IaaS offers businesses the ability to quickly scale and deploy essential IT infrastructure services as needed. This includes access to:

• Compute
• Storage
• Networking
• Virtualization resources

This model offers the highest level of flexibility and management control over IT resources.

Business can reduce expenses related to IT infrastructure and management through IaaS as the cloud provider takes care of the underlying infrastructure. Users can control the storage, operating systems and deployed applications without worrying about the physical hardware.

Platform as a Service (PaaS)

Platform as a Service (PaaS) provides an on-demand environment for:

• Developing
• Testing
• Delivering
• Managing software applications

This kind of service offers all the hardware and software resources needed for application development without the complexity of managing the underlying infrastructure.

By offering tools for continuous integration and continuous delivery, a PaaS model of service helps businesses speed up their development processes. Developers can focus on writing code and deploying applications while the cloud provider handles the infrastructure (including hardware and operating systems).

Software as a Service (SaaS)

With Software as a Service (SaaS), there is no need for installations or ongoing maintenance as the applications are provided through the internet via a subscription model. Users can access the vendor’s software without worrying about the underlying infrastructure. They are often used for business management tasks through Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems.

Serverless Computing

In serverless computing, resources are provided as per real-time demand. This execution model is part of cloud computing and eliminates the need for developers to manage infrastructure.

The adoption of serverless computing is growing rapidly, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 23.17% globally by 2029. Serverless computing helps businesses streamline their operations and reduce infrastructure management overhead.

Cloud Security Considerations

As organizations increasingly migrate their operations into public or private clouds, the question of security emerges as a critical concern.

Cloud security involves understanding shared responsibilities, data access rights and the implementation of robust authentication and monitoring practices. Reputable cloud providers offer advanced security features, automatic maintenance and centralized management to strengthen companies' security posture. Securing your cloud environments builds a foundation of digital trust that is critical in today’s business world.

Cloud Use Cases and Applications

Cloud computing encompasses a broad spectrum of use cases such as:

• Data storage in the cloud is appealing due to its accessibility and scalability; users can access and edit files from any device with an internet connection.
• Big data analytics benefit from the pay-as-you-go pricing model in the cloud, making it more affordable for businesses to analyze large data sets.
• Disaster recovery features offered by cloud providers help prevent data loss in emergencies. Additionally, cloud-based backup and archiving solutions enhance data security and allow scheduling and encryption of backups.
• Application development is enhanced and facilitated by cloud computing. Cloud computing supports new innovations by providing tools for continuous integration and continuous delivery, facilitating software testing and development.
• Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) allows remote worker productivity and easy deployment of applications and services to remote clients.

SUSE, a global leader in open source and cloud native infrastructure management software, offers a comprehensive suite of cloud solutions designed to empower businesses in their transition to the cloud. These solutions help with:

• Kubernetes management
• Virtualization
• Storage
• Container security

These solutions cater to the diverse needs of modern businesses, ensuring they can leverage the full potential of cloud computing.

SUSE Rancher Prime is a powerful tool for managing containerized environments, so businesses can securely deploy, run and manage cloud native workloads anywhere. SUSE Rancher Prime includes capabilities for virtualization cloud native storage, and zero trust container security

SUSE also works closely with cloud service providers, offering joint solutions to provide high-performance cloud computing. For more than a decade, SUSE has helped thousands of customers move enterprise workloads to the cloud, in partnerships with Microsoft Azure, AWS and Google Cloud

These SUSE products and partnerships highlight the company’s commitment to providing secure, scalable and efficient cloud solutions. By leveraging SUSE’s cloud offerings, businesses can achieve their IT goals while maintaining high-security standards and operational efficiency.

Why Choose SUSE

SUSE’s cloud solutions are built on the principles of flexibility, scalability and security. They provide enterprises with the tools they need to innovate and grow in the digital landscape.

SUSE solutions are engineered to support a wide range of workloads and applications, offering businesses the agility to adapt to market demands rapidly.

To protect against emerging threats, SUSE regularly releases security updates and patches, ensuring cloud environments remain secure.

By leveraging SUSE’s 30+ years of expertise, businesses can seamlessly harness the power of cloud computing to innovate everywhere.

What is cloud computing?

Cloud computing is the on-demand delivery of IT resources over the internet, allowing access to data storage, servers, databases, networking and software without active user management.

How does a public cloud differ from a private cloud?

A public cloud is provided by a cloud service provider over the public internet, while a private cloud is a dedicated environment for a single organization, offering better security and control. This difference gives organizations the flexibility to choose the type of cloud that best fits their needs.

What are the benefits of using IaaS?

Using Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) provides on-demand access to IT infrastructure services, offering flexibility and cost savings by eliminating the need to manage physical hardware.

Why is cloud security important?

Cloud security is important because it helps protect data and applications hosted in the cloud by implementing strong authentication and monitoring practices to mitigate risks. It also involves understanding shared responsibilities.

What cloud solutions does SUSE offer?

SUSE offers a range of cloud solutions including Harvester, Longhorn, NeuVector Prime and Rancher Prime for virtualization, storage, container security and Kubernetes management. SUSE works in close partnership with AWS, Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure to empower organizations’ adoption of cloud computing.