Cloud-enabled and cloud-native apps both use the cloud, but they're quite different in how they do it.
Cloud-enabled apps are traditional apps built for on-premise servers that have been adapted to run in the cloud. They might be slightly modified to use cloud resources, but they often keep their old monolithic structure, making it harder to scale and optimize. Think of it as moving your stuff from an old house to a new one—it works, but it’s not designed for the new space. This approach works well for migrating legacy apps quickly without major changes.
On the other hand, cloud-native apps are designed specifically for the cloud from the ground up. These apps use modern architecture like microservices, containers, and serverless functions, meaning they can scale automatically, handle loads more efficiently, and are easier to update. It's like building a house with smart technology—it’s designed to get the most out of its environment. Cloud-native apps are ideal for businesses looking to fully embrace the cloud, innovate faster, and scale seamlessly.
In short, cloud-enabled is a step toward modernization, while cloud-native is built for the future, leveraging all the advantages of the cloud from day one.