Public cloud

Definition

A public cloud is a computing model that provides shared resources and services over the internet, available to anyone who wishes to access them. This model allows organizations to utilize infrastructure, platforms, and software from third-party providers without needing to invest in physical hardware or data centers, making it a cost-effective solution for various applications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Public clouds are typically owned and operated by third-party service providers who manage the infrastructure, security, and maintenance.
2. Users can scale their resources up or down based on demand, providing flexibility and cost savings as they only pay for what they use.
3. Common examples of public cloud services include Google Cloud Platform, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Microsoft Azure.
4. Public clouds support a wide range of applications, from web hosting to big data analytics, making them versatile for various business needs.
5. Since public clouds are accessible via the internet, they raise security concerns which require robust measures to ensure data protection and compliance.

Review Questions

• How does the public cloud model support cost savings for organizations?
  • The public cloud model supports cost savings by eliminating the need for organizations to invest heavily in physical hardware and data centers. Instead of purchasing and maintaining their own servers, companies can access shared resources over the internet on a pay-as-you-go basis. This flexibility allows businesses to scale their IT resources according to demand without incurring unnecessary expenses.
• Discuss how public cloud services enhance collaboration within organizations.
  • Public cloud services enhance collaboration by providing tools and platforms that enable real-time access to shared data and applications from anywhere with an internet connection. Teams can work together seamlessly using applications hosted on public clouds, facilitating communication and project management. This accessibility fosters teamwork among remote employees or different locations, significantly improving productivity.
• Evaluate the implications of using public cloud services regarding security and compliance issues.
  • Using public cloud services presents both benefits and challenges concerning security and compliance. While public cloud providers implement advanced security measures and protocols to protect user data, organizations must also take responsibility for securing their data and understanding regulatory requirements. The potential risk of data breaches or loss requires businesses to assess their compliance with regulations such as GDPR or HIPAA. A thorough evaluation of the provider's security features and policies is essential for mitigating risks associated with public cloud usage.

Related terms

SaaS:

Software as a Service (SaaS) delivers software applications over the internet on a subscription basis, allowing users to access applications without local installation.

IaaS: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provides virtualized computing resources over the internet, allowing businesses to rent servers and storage instead of investing in physical infrastructure.

PaaS: Platform as a Service (PaaS) offers a cloud-based environment for developers to build, deploy, and manage applications without dealing with the underlying hardware and software layers.