The tech trajectory is constantly evolving. In 2006, the world experienced yet another transformation with the launch of Amazon Web Services (AWS). It introduced the world to Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) and Simple Storage Service (S3), which popularized modern-day cloud engineering services.
Cloud engineering today encompasses more than just the movement of computers; it also involves the design, automation, and enhancement of cloud infrastructure. It concentrates on the development of systems that are capable of expansion, are robust and economical, and are prepared to accommodate novel concepts.
In the current fast-paced industry, the significance of IT flexibility is increasing with corporate success. A structured approach to cloud engineering enhances the functionality of technology and provides a strategic advantage in the areas of cost, time, and risk management.
Cloud Engineering: Simplified
Most people know what cloud storage is. People use services like iCloud and Google Drive to store personal information like images, files, and documents on digital storage infrastructure. Businesses can do the same thing using cloud platforms like Microsoft Azure, AWS, and Oracle to manage their company data.
But cloud engineering is more than just data storage. It is the process of designing, developing, and managing systems that run in a cloud environment.
To simplify, let’s take an example of an online business that sells clothes. On a typical day, this business receives 1,000 orders. But during festivals like Black Friday or Christmas, order volume crosses 10,000 a day.
To maintain order volumes, customer information, and delivery summaries, a business would typically need more storage. Adding a physical server to store and maintain data incurs higher costs. Instead, cloud engineers set up cloud storage systems for companies on platforms like Users can choose either Azure, AWS, or any other cloud storage, and from there, they can scale up or scale down storage based on their specific requirements.
Result: smarter storage and reduced costs!
Types of Cloud Models:
Businesses worldwide use four distinguished cloud solutions. Here’s a breakdown of all four of these models:
1. Public Cloud: Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Google Cloud Platform (GCP) are all third-party companies that offer the public cloud as a shared computing environment. In this model, businesses can rent computer resources such as storage, virtual devices, and databases on a pay-per-use basis. It is a great solution for firms that value flexibility and cost-effectiveness above control or a lot of customization, because they take care of all the infrastructure.
The public cloud is ideal for new businesses, digital companies that grow rapidly, and those with seasonal or unpredictable demand, as it enables them to scale their operations without the need to purchase extensive equipment upfront. It also makes it easier to access the latest technologies, like AI, machine learning, and serverless computing, swiftly.
2. Private Cloud: A private cloud, in contrast, is dedicated solely to one business. The company or a trusted third party may host it. This strategy provides businesses with optimal security, adaptability, and freedom, which is why many companies in highly regulated fields such as finance, healthcare, and government opt for it. By adopting private cloud architecture, businesses can create stronger access controls, facilitate communication with older systems, and meet strict compliance standards.
3. Hybrid Cloud: A hybrid cloud is an amalgamation of private and public databases. It lets applications move between contexts depending on their sensitivity and nature. Businesses benefit from a hybrid cloud, which combines the security and control of a private cloud with the potential for growth and cost savings of a public cloud.
It is a great option for businesses that are moving from old systems to the cloud or that need to follow security measures and standard protocols. It helps businesses transition to the cloud gradually, avoiding the “all-in” phase.
4. Multi-Cloud: The term “multi-cloud” refers to using services from more than one public cloud provider. This helps companies rely less on one provider, be more flexible, and maximize each platform’s benefits. By spreading tasks over several environments, multi-cloud can also make systems more resilient and help them last longer.
This not only gives companies more freedom and backup, but it also helps in keeping expenses down, controlling security, and running things smoothly. In a multi-cloud environment, you need strong governance structures and talented people to be successful.
Strategic Advantage of Cloud Solutions:
1. Predictability and Cost Effectiveness: Cloud solutions help businesses predict future trends based on current data and save potential costs. According to a study, transitioning to the public cloud can reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) by 30% to 40%. This can be achieved with increased scalability of cloud infrastructure and reduced reliance on physical storage.
2. Faster Time-to-Market: The combination of cloud-native architecture and CI/CD pipelines speeds up the development of new ideas. Engineers are using CI/CD pipelines to automate software development and software updates. These quicker product rollouts can help businesses get a first-mover advantage.
3. Scalability and Continuity: Most cloud systems scale automatically, allowing businesses to handle large data during peak seasons. Additionally, the cloud has a distributed infrastructure that ensures that there is no single point of failure.
Wrapping Up
Cloud engineering services aren’t only about technology; they also help businesses improve their strategic focus. When done right, it makes things more resilient, flexible, creative, and cost-effective. Structured engineering and governance are essential for companies in the current era, as cloud expenditures are increasing and AI is complicating matters.
If you’re deliberating moving to the cloud, the right time is now. At Arna, we help you figure out the best way to move to the cloud, which model is appropriate for you, and make an action plan for a smooth transfer.
If you have any questions or want to know how we can help, please get in contact!
