Describe cloud computing Flashcards
What are the three main cloud service models?
The three main cloud service models are Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). These models offer different levels of control, management, and flexibility for cloud users, ranging from infrastructure components to complete software applications.
Explain the concept of a ‘consumption-based model’ in cloud computing.
The consumption-based model in cloud computing means that users pay only for the resources they actually consume, similar to utility services. This eliminates the need for upfront investments in infrastructure and allows for flexible scaling, reducing overall cost and waste.
What are the key differences between public and private clouds?
Public clouds are owned and maintained by third-party providers, offering resources to anyone who purchases them. In contrast, private clouds are used by a single organization, giving more control but also more responsibility and costs.
Describe the shared responsibility model in the context of cloud computing.
The shared responsibility model outlines how cloud responsibilities are divided between cloud providers and users. The provider manages the physical infrastructure, while users are responsible for data, security, and access, with some responsibilities shared depending on the cloud service used.
How does cloud computing shift IT spending compared to traditional data centers?
Cloud computing shifts IT spending from a capital expenditure (CapEx) model to an operational expenditure (OpEx) model. This means that instead of investing in infrastructure, users pay for services over time, as needed and on a recurring basis.
Provide an example of Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and explain what it provides.
Amazon EC2 is an example of IaaS. It provides virtual machines, storage, and networks to users, allowing them to manage their operating systems, middleware, and applications.
Provide an example of Software as a Service (SaaS) and explain how it’s typically used.
Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) is an example of SaaS. It provides a suite of software applications, like email and word processing, that are entirely managed by the provider and accessed via web browsers.
What is a hybrid cloud environment?
A hybrid cloud environment combines public and private clouds, allowing organizations to use resources from both. This can be used to manage resource bursts or to control the location of data.
What is a multicloud environment?
A multi-cloud environment involves using services and resources from multiple public cloud providers. This may occur due to using different features from different providers, or when migrating services between cloud providers.
What are the key areas of responsibility that a cloud user always maintains, regardless of service model?
Cloud users are always responsible for the information and data stored in the cloud, devices that connect to their cloud environment, and the accounts and identities of users, services, and devices within their organization.
