Fundamentals
of Cloud Computing
1.1 Definition of Cloud Computing,
Characteristics of Cloud computing
1.2 Cloud Deployment
Models(Introduction, advantages and disadvantages) : Public Cloud, Private
Cloud,Community Cloud, Hybrid Cloud
1.3 Cloud Service Models (Function,
advantages,disadvantages) : IaaS, PaaS, SaaS
1.4 Cloud cost benefits
1.5 Architectural and
Infrastructural components ofCloud Computing
1.1 Definition of Cloud Computing,
Characteristics ofCloud computing
Definition of Cloud Computing:
Cloud
computing is the delivery of computing services such as servers, storage,
databases, networking, software, and analytics over the internet (“the cloud”)
to offer faster innovation, flexible resources, and economies of scale. Instead
of owning their own computing infrastructure, users can rent access to anything
from applications to storage from a cloud service provider.
Characteristics of Cloud Computing:
1.
On-Demand Self-Service
○ Users can access resources like
storage and computing power automatically, without human interaction with the
service provider.
2.
Broad Network Access
○ Services are accessible over the
internet from a variety of devices such as laptops, mobile phones, and tablets.
3.
Resource Pooling
○ Cloud providers use a multi-tenant
model to serve multiple customers with dynamically assigned resources.
4.
Rapid Elasticity
○ Resources can be quickly scaled up
or down according to demand.
5.
Measured Service
○ Resource usage is monitored and
reported, providing transparency for both the provider and consumer
(pay-as-you-go model).
6.
Scalability
○ Cloud systems can easily handle
growing workloads and are adaptable to changing needs.
7.
Security
● Cloud platforms typically offer
advanced security features like encryption, identity management, and access
controls.
1.2 Cloud Deployment Models (Introduction,
advantages and disadvantages) : Public Cloud, Private Cloud, Community Cloud, Hybrid Cloud
🌐 Cloud Deployment Models
Cloud
deployment models define how cloud services are made available to users and how
infrastructure is managed.
1. 🌐Public Cloud
Introduction:
A cloud infrastructure available to
the general public or large industry group, owned and managed by a third-party
cloud service provider (e.g., AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud).
A
public cloud provides cloud services (like storage, databases, networks) to the
general public over the internet.
💡 Advantages:
● Cost-effective: Pay-as-you-go
pricing
● No maintenance: Managed by provider
● High scalability and flexibility
● Easy to access from anywhere
❌Disadvantages:
● Less control over data and
infrastructure
● Potential security and privacy risks
● Performance may vary due to shared
resources
🔑 Key Features:
● Open for everyone (public use).
● Services delivered via internet.
● Shared infrastructure (hardware
& network shared among users).
● Can be free or pay-per-use.
🏢 Used By:
Companies/Organizations for:
App
development & testing
File sharing
Email services
Websites
Time & project management
Antivirus services
🌍 Examples:
Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Microsoft Azure
IBM Cloud
Google Cloud Platform
🛠️ Service Example:
Data Analytics
Helps in analyzing large data to make smart business decisions using advanced
tools.
2. Private Cloud
Introduction:
A cloud infrastructure operated
solely for a single organization. It can be managed internally or by a third
party, and hosted either on-premises or externally.
🧩 Private Cloud
● A Private Cloud is owned and used by
a single organization.
● It is also called an internal or
corporate cloud.
● It provides cloud services only
within that organization.
● It uses a private network to keep
data and services secure.
● It offers more control and security
compared to public cloud.
● Can be managed by the organization
itself or a third-party provider (like Microsoft, VMware, etc.).
🔧 Types of Private Cloud:
1.
Internal Private Cloud
○ Managed completely by the
organization.
2.
Managed Private Cloud
○ Managed by a third-party provider,
but for one organization only.
3.
Hosted Private Cloud
○ Hosted and managed by a provider.
The company accesses services as needed.
💡 Advantages of Private
Cloud:
1.
Security – High level of security as it’s used
by a single organization.
2.
Superior Performance – Good network performance due to
internal deployment.
3.
Easy Customization – Resources can be customized easily.
4.
Cost and Efficiency – More efficient for large
organizations.
5.
Highly Private & Secure – Not shared with public, so privacy
is ensured.
6.
More Control – Full control over resources and
hardware.
7.
Enhanced security and privacy
8.
Suitable for sensitive or
mission-critical data
❌
Disadvantages of Private Cloud
1.
Vendor Lock-In – Stuck with one service provider due
to hardware dependencies.
2.
High Priced – Expensive to buy and maintain
hardware.
3.
Restricted Area of Operation – Mostly local, not global.
4.
Limited Scalability – Can’t scale beyond internal resource
limits.
5.
Expensive – Infrastructure, maintenance, and
updates are costly.
Higher cost compared to public cloud
6.
Requires skilled IT staff for setup
and maintenance
7.
Limited scalability compared to
public cloud
3. Community Cloud
Introduction:
A cloud infrastructure shared by
several organizations with common interests (e.g., security, compliance). It
may be managed internally or by a third party.
✅
Definition:
● Community Cloud is shared by
multiple organizations with similar requirements.
● Can be managed internally or by a
third-party provider.
● Example: GoogleApps for Government, Microsoft Cloud for Government,
AWS GovCloud.
💡 Advantages:
1.
Secure – More secure than public cloud, but
less than private.
2.
Cost Effective – Cost is shared among the
organizations.
3.
Flexible & Scalable – Can adjust resources as per needs of
each member.
4.
Sharing – Multiple organizations can share
cloud infrastructure.
5.
Reliable & Available – Resources are always accessible.
6.
Improved Services – No need to maintain separate IT
systems.
7. Cost sharing among multiple organizations
8.
Better security than public cloud
9.
Collaboration and data sharing among
community members
❌ Disadvantages:
● Costly than Public Cloud.
● Not suitable for all due to
different security or policies.
● Fixed Bandwidth/Data – Shared among
all users.
● High Security Needed – Because data
is centralized.
● Limited control compared to private
cloud
● Slower adoption and setup
4. Hybrid Cloud
Introduction:
A combination of two or more cloud models
(e.g., private + public) that remain unique entities but are integrated for
data and application portability.
● A Hybrid Cloud is a combination of
two or more cloud types – like public, private, or community clouds.
● Each cloud remains separate but is
connected via technology for data and application sharing.
💡 Key Points:
● Mixes the cost-effectiveness of
public cloud and security of private cloud.
● Enables data portability and
flexibility.
● Allows businesses to use off-premise
(third-party) services without risking data exposure.
● Useful for companies that need
scalable and secure cloud solutions.
● Used by a specific group of
organizations with common goals or interests.
● Infrastructure is shared among
organizations with similar requirements.
● Managed internally or by a cloud
provider.
● Supports collaboration, shared
missions, or security needs across organizations.
💡 Advantages:
● Flexibility: Move workloads between clouds
● Cost optimization: Use public cloud for less-sensitive
operations
● Business continuity and disaster
recovery
❌Disadvantages:
● Complex to manage and integrate
● Security and compliance challenges
across platforms
● Possible latency or performance
issues
|
Feature / Aspect |
Public Cloud |
Private Cloud |
Community Cloud |
Hybrid Cloud |
|
Ownership |
Owned & operated by
third-party provider |
Owned by a single organization |
Shared by multiple organizations
with common needs |
Combination of public &
private clouds |
|
Infrastructure
Location |
Off-premises (vendor’s data
center) |
On-premises or hosted by third
party |
On-premises or third party |
Mix of on-premises and cloud
infrastructure |
|
Cost |
Pay-as-you-go, lower upfront cost |
High initial cost; maintained
internally |
Shared cost among organizations |
Moderate; cost-effective based on
usage |
|
Scalability |
Highly scalable |
Limited by in-house infrastructure |
Moderate scalability |
Highly scalable |
|
Security |
Basic to advanced, depends on
vendor |
High (controlled internally) |
Better than public, shared
security policies |
Varies (can be very secure if
managed properly) |
|
Customization |
Limited |
Highly customizable |
Customizable within community
needs |
Customizable in both environments |
|
Maintenance |
Handled by service provider |
Managed internally |
Shared maintenance
responsibilities |
Shared/automated based on setup |
|
Examples |
AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud
Platform |
Bank's private data center,
Internal OpenStack |
Government department clouds,
universities |
AWS + on-premise servers, Azure
Stack, etc. |
|
Best For |
Startups, general workloads,
public websites |
Large enterprises with strict
security needs |
Organizations with shared
goals/compliance |
Organizations needing flexibility
& compliance |
1.3 Cloud Service Models (Function,
advantages, disadvantages) : IaaS, PaaS, SaaS
☁️ Cloud Service Models
Cloud
service models define what level of control and responsibility users have over
the cloud environment.
1. IaaS – Infrastructure as a
Service
Function:
Provides
virtualized computing resources over the internet such as servers, storage, and
networking. Users manage the OS, applications, and data.
Examples:
Amazon EC2,
Microsoft Azure VM, Google Compute Engine
🔹 Definition:
IaaS provides access to fundamental
computing resources such as:
● Physical machines
● Virtual machines
● Virtual storage
● Virtual networks
It
enables organizations to access infrastructure over the internet on a
pay-per-use basis, reducing the cost of owning expensive hardware.
🔹 Services
Provided by IaaS:
1. Access to virtual networks and load
balancers
2. Virtual servers provisioning
3. Cloud storage for data
4. Services like IP addresses,
firewalls, software bundles
🔹
Characteristics of IaaS:
● Easy to scale resources up or down
as needed
● Functions like renting virtual
computers/storage in the cloud
● Provides control over OS, apps, and
development frameworks
● Examples: AWS, Microsoft Azure,
Google Compute Engine, IBM SmartCloud, Rackspace
🔹 Advantages of
IaaS:
1. Location Independence
Access infrastructure from anywhere,
anytime.
2. Scalable and Flexible
Resources can be increased/decreased
based on business needs.
3. Access to Resources
Users get access to all necessary
hardware resources online.
4. Pay Per Use
Pay only for what you actually use.
5. Saves Time and Cost
No need for maintenance; reduces
operational burden.
6. Full control over infrastructure
7. Scalable and flexible
8. Pay-as-you-go pricing
🔹 Disadvantages:
1. Requires technical expertise to
manage
2. Users are responsible for
maintenance of OS and apps
3. Security is partly user-managed
2. PaaS – Platform as a Service
🔹 Definition:
PaaS
offers a runtime environment along with development and deployment tools to
help developers build, test, and deploy applications without managing
infrastructure.
Function:
Provides a
platform with tools and services for developers to build, test, and deploy
applications. The provider manages the infrastructure and runtime environment.
Examples:
Google App
Engine, Microsoft Azure App Service, Heroku
🔹 Key Features
of PaaS:
● Developers can write code and deploy
directly to the platform.
● Vendors manage infrastructure
(servers, storage, middleware, networking).
● Accessed over the internet using a
pay-per-use model.
● Mainly used for web application
development.
🔹
Characteristics of PaaS:
● Provides a browser-based development
environment.
● Offers built-in security,
scalability, and web service interfaces.
● Includes tools for workflow,
approval processes, and business rules.
● Easily integrates with other apps on
the same platform.
● Offers Web services interfaces for
external connectivity.
🔹 Benefits of
PaaS:
● No need to manage infrastructure
(hardware/software/networking).
● Quick and easy application
development and deployment.
● Ideal for developers and
small/medium enterprises.
● Simplifies development and
deployment
● No need to manage infrastructure
● Scales automatically
🔹 Disadvantages:
● Less control over environment
● Limited to supported languages and
frameworks
● Vendor lock-in risk
3. 💻 Software as a Service
(SaaS)
✅
Definition:
● SaaS provides software applications
as a service over the Internet.
● The software is hosted on a server
and accessed by users through a web browser or app interface.
💡 Key Points:
● No need to install the software on
your own device.
● Managed by third-party vendors.
● Examples: Google Docs, Zoom,
Microsoft 365, Dropbox.
Function:
Delivers
software applications over the internet. Users access them via web browsers;
providers manage everything (infrastructure, platform, and application).
Examples: Google Workspace, Microsoft 365,
Dropbox, Salesforce
🔹 Types of PaaS:
1. Public PaaS:
○ Allows developers to build
applications without managing infrastructure.
○ Infrastructure is managed by
third-party providers.
2. Private PaaS:
○ Hosted within a private data center.
○ Provides more control but has
restrictions.
3. Hybrid PaaS:
○ Combines features of both public and
private PaaS.
4. Mobile PaaS (mPaaS):
○ Supports mobile app development.
○ Offers IDE for building,
configuring, and deploying mobile apps.
5. Communications PaaS (cPaaS):
Cloud-based communication APIs for voice, video, messaging, etc.
6. Open PaaS:
○ Open-source platform for building
web apps like calendars, contacts, etc.
✅
Advantages of PaaS:
1. Simple and Easy:
○ Easy solution for coding and
programming.
2. Fast and Flexible Tools:
Faster app development and deployment.
3. Scalable:
○ Resources can be scaled up/down as
needed.
4. Low Cost:
○ No infrastructure costs for running
the application.
5. Development Options:
○ Build applications for multiple
platforms (mobile, web, etc.).
6.
No installation or maintenance
required
7.
Accessible from any device with
internet
❌
Disadvantages of PaaS:
1. Lack of Portability:
○ Applications may not be easily
migrated across platforms.
2. Security Risks:
○ Despite security measures,
cloud-hosted apps may be vulnerable to data theft or unauthorized access.
3. Limited customization
4.
Requires constant internet connection
1.4 Cloud cost benefits
💰 Cloud Cost Benefits
Cloud
computing offers several cost-saving advantages for individuals, businesses,
and organizations. Here are the main cost-related benefits:
✅
1. No Capital Expenditure (CapEx)
● Traditional IT requires buying
servers, storage, and networking equipment.
● Cloud allows you to avoid these
upfront investments by using pay-as-you-go pricing.
✅
2. Pay-as-You-Go Pricing
● You only pay for the resources
(compute, storage, bandwidth) you use.
● No need to overbuy hardware “just in
case.”
✅
3. Scalability Saves Cost
● Easily scale up or down based on
demand.
● Avoid costs of over-provisioning or
under-utilizing resources.
✅
4. Reduced Maintenance Costs
● Cloud providers handle maintenance,
upgrades, and security.
● Saves on IT staff time and equipment
repair/replacement.
✅
5. Energy and Space Efficiency
● No need to maintain physical data
centers, saving electricity and cooling costs.
● Reduces space needed for IT
infrastructure.
✅
6. Improved Productivity
● Faster deployment of services means
quicker time to market.
● Reduces cost of delays and increases
business agility.
✅
7. Disaster Recovery and Backup Savings
● Built-in backup and disaster
recovery services reduce the need
General
Benefits:
● Access to Technologies &
Expertise: Cloud gives organizations access to advanced technologies and
skilled IT capabilities.
● Lower Setup & Maintenance Costs:
It’s cheaper than maintaining on-premises servers.
● Reduces IT Staff Load: No need for
extensive data storage hardware, thus reducing IT responsibilities.
1. Reduced Hardware Costs:
● On-premises servers are expensive
and require additional equipment (memory, processors).
● Organizations may need large spaces
or buildings to host servers.
● Smaller or fast-growing companies
may find on-premises servers inconvenient and costly.
● Web-based cloud solutions remove the
need for physical infrastructure and its costs.
2. Minimized Costs for
Updates:
● Frequent updates are needed for
security and new features.
● Growing enterprises may incur high
costs with constant hardware updates.
● Cloud providers handle updates, so
users don’t need to invest in hardware or IT staff for upgrades.
3. Effortless Scaling:
● Cloud storage is easily scalable, so
organizations can adjust storage as their needs evolve.
4. Low Initial Investment Costs
● Setting up on-premises storage is
costly due to the need to buy expensive servers.
● High initial costs make it hard for
small or growing businesses to adopt legacy systems.
● Cloud eliminates upfront hardware
investment, reducing the barrier to entry.
5. Removed Need for Hardware Investment
● Cloud storage is more cost-effective
because the provider manages the infrastructure.
● Users pay a fixed price for storage,
avoiding expenses related to purchase, installation, and setup.
6. Pay-as-you-go Model
● Organizations only pay for the exact
amount of cloud storage they use.
● This model offers financial
flexibility and allows for easy scaling as storage needs change.
7. Reduced Labor Costs
● Maintaining on-premise storage
demands a dedicated IT team, leading to high labor costs.
● Cloud storage reduces the need for
such teams since hardware is vendor-managed.
● Companies see labor cost savings
when switching to cloud-based systems.
8. Reduced Maintenance Costs
● Cloud systems cost less to maintain
since vendors handle maintenance and repairs.
● Less on-site hardware = fewer
failures and less downtime.
● Data is often replicated across
servers, offering redundancy and reliability.
● Upgrades are often automatic and
need minimal human intervention.
● Organizations spend less time and
effort on infrastructure maintenance.
9. Software and Tool Consolidation
● Modern businesses rely on various
software tools to manage projects, communicate, and complete tasks.
● On-premises systems also require
software to operate and monitor data storage hardware.
● Cloud systems simplify operations by
reducing the number of required software tools.
● They also eliminate the need for
hardware-specific software, lowering software costs and simplifying software
management.
Reasons Customers Save Money with Cloud:
1. Replaces upfront capital expenses
with low variable costs.
2. Economies of scale and efficiency
improvements drive prices down.
3. Reduces IT labor costs both at the
start and over time.
4. Flexible pricing models let
customers optimize for different types of workloads.
5. High availability at lower cost
compared to self-hosting.
✅ Full Summary: Cloud Cost
Benefits (Points 1–9)
|
No. |
Benefit |
Key Advantage |
|
1 |
Reduced
Hardware Costs |
Eliminates
need for expensive servers and infrastructure |
|
2 |
Minimized
Update Costs |
Providers
handle updates and upgrades |
|
3 |
Effortless
Scaling |
Easily
scale storage as needed |
|
4 |
Low
Initial Investment |
No large
upfront costs; low entry barrier |
|
5 |
No
Hardware Investment |
Flat-rate
pricing avoids purchase and setup costs |
|
6 |
Pay-as-you-go
Model |
Pay only
for what you use |
|
7 |
Reduced
Labor Costs |
Less need
for internal IT team and maintenance |
|
8 |
Reduced
Maintenance Costs |
Vendor-managed
systems mean fewer failures and updates are automatic |
|
9 |
Software
& Tool Consolidation |
Reduces
software purchases and simplifies system management |
1.5 🏗️ Architectural
and Infrastructural components of Cloud Computing
Cloud
computing architecture is made up of several core components that enable
delivery, management, and operation of cloud services. These are grouped into
front-end, back-end, and infrastructure components.
🌐 Cloud Computing
Architecture: Key Points
Definition:
Cloud
architecture refers to all components and subcomponents required for cloud
computing.
Components:
It
includes many loosely coupled components — meaning they are independent of each
other.
Purpose:
It
describes how clients (users) and servers (cloud systems) communicate over a
network (the internet).
🔄 Two Main Parts of Cloud
Architecture:
Front End (User Interface)
Used by the user.
Example: Web browser accessing Google Docs
or AWS.
Back End (Servers, Platforms,
Applications)
Managed
by the host.
Contains
the infrastructure (hardware and software) needed to process and serve data.
🔗 Connection Between
Frontend and Backend
Both
ends communicate via the Internet.
The
frontend sends requests (e.g., opening a document), and the backend processes
and responds (e.g., fetching it from the database).
📘 Example Given:
If
you use a web browser to access Google Docs or AWS, the browser is the
frontend, and the cloud data center (at Google or Amazon) is the backend.
🧩 Diagram:
🧱 1. Architectural
Components
✅
A. Front-End
● What it is: The user-facing part of cloud computing.
● Includes:
○ Web browser
○ Client devices (mobile, desktop,
etc.)
○ GUI (Graphical User Interface)
● Purpose: Allows users to access cloud services.
✅
B. Back-End
● What it is: The server-side part that manages all resources
and operations.
● Includes:
○ Servers
○ Storage systems
○ Virtual machines (VMs)
○ Databases
○ Application servers
○ Management software
● Purpose: Stores data, runs applications, and manages
services.
✅
C. Cloud Delivery Models
● IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service)
● PaaS (Platform as a Service)
● SaaS (Software as a Service)
These
define how services are provided and consumed.
✅
D. Service Management Layer
● Handles monitoring, provisioning,
billing, and SLA (Service Level Agreement) management.
🏗️ 2. Infrastructural
Components
✅
A. Virtualization
● Allows multiple virtual machines to
run on a single physical machine.
● Enables efficient use of hardware
resources.
✅
B. Servers
● Physical or virtual machines that
run cloud applications and services.
✅
C. Storage
● Data is stored on cloud-based
storage systems like block storage, object storage, or file storage.
✅
D. Network
● High-speed networking (LAN, WAN,
internet) connects users and data centers.
● Includes firewalls, load balancers,
and routers.
✅
E. Data Centers
● Physical facilities housing the
infrastructure components.
● Located in various geographic
regions for reliability and speed.
✅
F. Security Infrastructure
● Identity and access management (IAM)
● Encryption
● Firewalls
● Intrusion detection systems (IDS)
🖥️ Front End
(Client Side)
● The front end is the interface users
interact with to access cloud computing services.
● It includes everything visible to
the user: computers, laptops, browsers, mobile apps, etc.
● Consists of:
○ User’s computer/network
○ Interfaces
○ Applications needed to access cloud
platforms
● All networked services are accessed through web-enabled
interfaces.
● Examples:
○ Web browsers (e.g., Chrome, Firefox)
○ Mobile apps (e.g., Google Drive app)
○ Company-created apps (e.g., custom
cloud software)
🗄️ Back End
(Cloud Side)
● The back end is the cloud infrastructure and services behind
the scenes.
● It includes all resources needed to deliver cloud services,
such as:
○ Large-scale data storage
○ Virtual machines
○ Security mechanisms
○ Services & deployment models
○ Servers
● Responsibilities:
○ Manage traffic control, data
security, and communication protocols
○ Store and manage user data
○ Provide continuous service to the
front end
● Managed by the cloud provider (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google
Cloud)
🧩 Summary Table:
|
Component |
Description |
Examples |
|
Front End |
Interface for user to interact
with cloud |
Browser, apps, client-side
software |
|
Back End |
Infrastructure powering cloud
services |
Servers, storage, VMs, data
centers |
☁️ Cloud Computing Architecture: Key
Components
🔷 Front End
Architecture
Refers
to all hardware and software components on the client side that help users
interact with the cloud.
Includes:
● User Interface:
Interface between user and system
(e.g., Gmail, Google Docs).
● Software:
Applications on the client side,
typically web browsers or web apps.
● Hardware:
User devices like computers, laptops, mobile
phones, or networked systems.
Examples:
● Web browsers (Chrome, Firefox)
● Web apps (Google Docs, Office 365)
● Devices (PC, phone, tablet)
🔶 Back End
Architecture
Back
end provides the computational power, data storage, and services needed by
users.
Includes:
1.
Application:
Software/app users interact with
(e.g., Google Docs, Zoom).
2.
Services:
IT services like:
○ SaaS (e.g., Gmail, Dropbox)
○ PaaS (e.g., Google App Engine)
○ IaaS (e.g., AWS EC2, Azure VMs)
3.
Cloud Runtime:
Execution environment for virtual
machines; supports virtualization for running multiple servers on one machine.
4.
Storage:
Where user data is stored. Varies by
provider.
5.
Infrastructure:
Foundation of the system—includes:
○ Servers
○ Network
○ Storage devices
○ Hypervisor
○ Management & deployment software
🧩 Summary Table:
|
Component |
Front End |
Back End |
|
Purpose |
Interface for user interaction |
Powers and supports cloud
functionality |
|
Examples |
Web browser, mobile apps |
Servers, VMs, services like
SaaS/PaaS/IaaS |
|
Subcomponents |
UI, software, hardware |
Apps, services, runtime, storage,
infrastructure |
Previous
Year Questions
Advantage of cloud computing?
Ans: Cloud computing offers several
advantages that make it attractive for individuals, businesses, and
organizations. Here are the key benefits:
🌐 1. Cost Efficiency
● No upfront hardware costs – pay only for what you use.
● Reduces costs for IT infrastructure, maintenance, and
electricity.
⚙️ 2. Scalability & Flexibility
● Easily scale up or down based on demand.
● Ideal for businesses with fluctuating workloads.
🚀 3. Speed & Agility
● Quick deployment of applications and services.
● Accelerates innovation and time-to-market.
🔒 4. Security
● Leading cloud providers offer advanced security features,
encryption, and compliance standards.
● Regular updates and monitoring for threats.
🌍 5. Accessibility
● Access data and applications anytime, anywhere using the
internet.
● Supports remote work and global collaboration.
♻️ 6. Disaster Recovery & Backup
● Cloud services often include automated backups and disaster
recovery options.
● Reduces risk of data loss.
🔧 7. Maintenance-Free
● Cloud providers handle software updates, bug fixes, and
hardware issues.
● Less burden on internal IT teams.
♻️ 8. Sustainability
● Cloud data centers are more energy-efficient than
traditional ones.
● Helps reduce carbon footprint.
What is cloud computing?
Ans :
Cloud
computing is the delivery of computing services—such as servers, storage,
databases, networking, software, and analytics—over the internet ("the
cloud") instead of using local computers or personal data centers.
🔧 Key Concept:
Rather
than owning and maintaining physical hardware, you rent computing resources
from a cloud provider (like AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud) and access
them through the internet.
📦 Types of Cloud
Services (The Cloud Stack):
1. IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service):
○ Rent virtual machines, storage, and
networks.
○ Example: Amazon EC2
2. PaaS (Platform as a Service):
○ Provides platforms to develop, test,
and deploy applications.
○ Example: Google App Engine
3. SaaS (Software as a Service):
○ Access software applications over
the internet.
○ Example: Gmail, Microsoft 365
☁️ Deployment Models:
1. Public Cloud – Services shared over
the internet (e.g., AWS).
2. Private Cloud – Used exclusively by
one organization.
3.
Hybrid Cloud – A mix of public and private cloud.
Q Characteristics
of cloud computing?
Ans : Characteristics of Cloud Computing:
1. On-Demand Self-Service
○ Users can access resources like
storage and computing power automatically, without human interaction with the
service provider.
2. Broad Network Access
○ Services are accessible over the
internet from a variety of devices such as laptops, mobile phones, and tablets.
3. Resource Pooling
○ Cloud providers use a multi-tenant
model to serve multiple customers with dynamically assigned resources.
4. Rapid Elasticity
○ Resources can be quickly scaled up
or down according to demand.
5. Measured Service
○ Resource usage is monitored and
reported, providing transparency for both the provider and consumer
(pay-as-you-go model).
6. Scalability
○ Cloud systems can easily handle
growing workloads and are adaptable to changing needs.
7. Security
8.
Cloud platforms typically offer advanced security features
like encryption, identity management, and access controls.
Q Explain cloud deployment model.
☁️ Cloud Deployment
Models
Cloud
deployment models define how cloud services are made available to users. The
main types are:
1. Public Cloud
● Services are delivered over the
internet and shared among multiple users.
● Owned and operated by third-party
providers like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
● Example: Gmail, Dropbox.
2. Private Cloud
● Used exclusively by a single
organization.
● Can be hosted on-premises or by a
third party.
● Offers greater security and control.
● Example: A bank running its own
private cloud for sensitive data.
3. Hybrid Cloud
● Combines public and private clouds.
● Allows data and applications to be
shared between them.
● Offers flexibility, cost-efficiency,
and enhanced security.
● Example: An e-commerce site storing
customer data privately but using a public cloud for high-traffic web hosting.
4. Community Cloud (Optional
in some syllabi)
● Shared by several organizations with
similar needs (e.g., government or healthcare)
● Managed internally or by a third
party.
✅ Summary Table:
|
Model |
Ownership |
Accessibility |
Example
Use Case |
|
Public Cloud |
Third-party |
Open to all |
Web apps, email |
|
Private Cloud |
Single organization |
Restricted |
Banking, internal apps |
|
Hybrid Cloud |
Both |
Mixed |
Scalable, flexible apps |
Q. What is public cloud ? (4 Marks)
🌐 Public Cloud
A
public cloud is a cloud computing model where services like storage, servers,
and applications are provided by third-party providers (e.g., Amazon Web
Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud) over the internet. These services are
shared among multiple users or organizations (also known as tenants).
✅ Key Features:
● Owned and operated by cloud service
providers.
● Cost-effective – pay only for what
you use.
● Scalable and easy to access
globally.
● Less control over security and data
location compared to private cloud.
📌 Example:
Using
Google Drive or Dropbox for storing personal files.
Q. Explain Private cloud. (4 Marks)
🔒 Private Cloud
A private cloud is a cloud computing model where the
entire cloud infrastructure is dedicated to a single organization. It can be
managed internally or by a third-party provider and hosted either on-premises
or off-site.
✅ Key Features:
●
Provides greater control,
security, and customization.
●
Suitable for organizations with
strict data privacy or compliance requirements.
● Not shared
with other users—offers dedicated resources
📌 Example:
A
bank or government agency using a private cloud to securely store and manage
sensitive data.
Q. Explain community cloud.
👥☁️ Community Cloud (4 Marks)
A community cloud is a cloud
computing model shared by multiple organizations that have similar requirements
such as security, compliance, or performance needs. It can be managed
internally or by a third-party provider.
✅ Key Features:
●
Infrastructure is shared among
organizations with common goals or regulations.
●
Offers better cost-efficiency than
a private cloud but with more control than a public cloud.
● Promotes
collaboration and resource sharing.
📌 Example:
Government departments or healthcare institutions
using a shared cloud to store and process sensitive data securely.
Q. Explain Hybrid cloud.
☁️🔄 Hybrid Cloud (4 Marks)
A
hybrid cloud is a cloud computing model that combines both public and private
clouds, allowing data and applications to be shared between them. It offers the
flexibility of the public cloud and the security of the private cloud.
✅ Key Features:
● Allows organizations to keep
sensitive data in a private cloud while using a public cloud for less critical
workloads.
● Enables scalability,
cost-efficiency, and better control.
● Ideal for businesses with variable
workloads or data compliance needs.
📌 Example:
An
e-commerce company using a private cloud for customer data and a public cloud
for handling website traffic during sales events.
Q. Comparison between private,
public, community, Hybrid model.
|
Feature |
Private
Cloud |
Public
Cloud |
Community
Cloud |
Hybrid
Cloud |
|
Ownership |
Single organization |
Third-party provider |
Shared by multiple similar organizations |
Combination of private & public clouds |
|
Accessibility |
Restricted (within the organization) |
Open to all users via the internet |
Restricted to community members |
Controlled access to both private and public parts |
|
Security & Privacy |
High (more control) |
Moderate (depends on provider) |
High (shared but secure) |
Balanced – sensitive data stays private |
|
Cost |
High setup and maintenance cost |
Low (pay-as-you-go) |
Medium (shared costs) |
Cost-effective if used strategically |
|
Scalability |
Limited – based on internal resources |
Highly scalable |
Moderately scalable |
Highly scalable |
|
Example |
Bank's internal data center |
Google Drive, AWS, Gmail |
Government or healthcare sector sharing a cloud |
E-commerce site using both private and public
cloud |
☁️ Cloud Deployment Models Comparison
Q. Explain SaaS (Software as a Service)
SaaS
is a cloud computing service model where software applications are delivered
over the internet. Users can access these applications through a web browser
without installing or maintaining them.
● Examples: Google Docs, Microsoft 365, Zoom
● Advantages: No installation, automatic updates, accessible from anywhere
● Use case: End-users who need ready-to-use software
Q. Explain PaaS (Platform as a Service)
PaaS
provides a cloud environment for developers to build, test, and deploy
applications. It offers tools like compilers, databases, and web servers
without managing the underlying infrastructure.
● Examples: Google App Engine, Microsoft Azure App Services
● Advantages: Speeds up development, supports collaboration, scalable
● Use case: Developers building custom applications
Q. Explain IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service)
IaaS
provides virtualized computing resources like servers, storage, and networking
over the cloud. Users manage their own OS and apps, while the provider manages
the infrastructure.
● Examples: Amazon EC2, Microsoft Azure VMs
● Advantages: Full control over resources, scalable, cost-efficient
● Use case: System administrators managing custom environments
Q. Difference between IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS
|
Feature |
IaaS |
PaaS |
SaaS |
|
User Controls |
OS, apps, storage |
Apps and data |
Just usage |
|
Target Users |
System admins, IT staff |
Developers |
End users |
|
Example |
AWS EC2 |
Google App Engine |
Google Docs, Gmail |
|
Setup Complexity |
High |
Medium |
Low |
|
Maintenance |
User-managed |
Semi-managed |
Fully managed |
Q. Explain Architecture of Cloud Computing with Components
Cloud
computing architecture includes frontend, backend, and cloud delivery models:
Components:
1. Frontend:
○ Client devices, web browser, or app
to access cloud services
○ Example: User accessing Google Drive
from browser
2.
Backend:
○ Cloud servers, storage, and
databases that handle processing and storage
○ Managed by cloud providers like AWS,
Azure
3.
Cloud Service Models:
○ IaaS, PaaS, SaaS (explained above)
4.
Network:
○ Internet connectivity and protocols
that link users to the cloud infrastructure
5.
Middleware:
○ Software that connects different
components and services
○ Handles authentication, data
exchange, etc.
6.
Security & Management Tools:
○ Firewalls, identity management,
monitoring, and data encryption tools
Together,
these components provide a flexible, scalable, and reliable cloud environment
for various users.
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