Cloud computing concepts (IaaS, SaaS, PaaS) and different types of clouds (public, private, hybrid). (LO4)

Full Answer Section

1. Platform as a Service (PaaS):

   • Offers a platform for developing, testing, and deploying applications.
   • Provides a pre-configured environment with tools and services for application development.
   • Examples: Heroku, Google App Engine, Microsoft Azure App Service

2. Software as a Service (SaaS):

   • Delivers software applications over the internet.
   • Users access software through a web browser without the need for local installation.
   • Examples: Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Salesforce

Cloud Deployment Models

1. Public Cloud:
   • Cloud services are delivered over the public internet.
   • Resources are shared among multiple organizations.
   • Provides high scalability and cost-effectiveness.
2. Private Cloud:
   • Cloud services are delivered over a private network.
   • Resources are dedicated to a single organization.
   • Offers high security and control.
3. Hybrid Cloud:
   • Combines public and private cloud services.
   • Enables organizations to leverage the benefits of both models.
   • Provides flexibility and scalability while maintaining data security and control.

Benefits of Cloud Computing:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Pay-per-use model reduces upfront costs.
• Scalability: Easily scale resources up or down to meet changing demands.
• Reliability: High availability and disaster recovery capabilities.
• Security: Robust security measures to protect data.
• Accessibility: Access data and applications from anywhere with an internet connection.

By understanding these concepts, organizations can leverage the power of cloud computing to improve their operations, reduce costs, and drive innovation.

Sample Answer

Cloud Computing Concepts

Cloud computing is a technology that delivers computing services—such as servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence—over the Internet (“the cloud”).  

Cloud Computing Models

1. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS):

   • Provides fundamental computing resources, including servers, storage, and networking.
   • Users rent virtualized hardware resources on a pay-per-use basis.
   • Examples: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform (GCP)