What Is Public Cloud and Is It Right for Your Business?
Tags: publiccloud, cloudcomputing
Published: 2022-11-11 05:33:46

Public cloud computing has become immensely popular over the last couple years. What exactly is it? How does it compare to other options? And why should you consider using it? 

Cloud computing is a model of service delivery for enabling ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computer resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction. This cloud model promotes availability and is characterized by on-demand self-service, broad network accessibility, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. The term commonly describes a suite of Internet technologies designed to provide scalable web-based software and data services via a [public cloud](https://www.acecloudhosting.com/public-cloud/). 

Most businesses rely heavily on their data infrastructure. If they fail to plan ahead, they risk being unable to operate at peak performance during times of extreme demand. In addition, cloud computing offers several advantages over traditional IT solutions. For example, it provides increased flexibility and scalability, lowers costs, improves security, and enables easier maintenance and upgrades. However, there are also some drawbacks associated with this type of technology. A major drawback is the lack of control over your data. While most organizations have strict policies regarding privacy and confidentiality, these policies may not apply in the cloud. 

The main reasons for moving to the cloud include cost savings and efficiency gains. Many companies use cloud computing as an alternative to expensive private clouds. Other benefits include improved security, higher reliability, and better disaster recovery. There are many different types of cloud computing: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), and even Storage as a Service (Saas). 

The key difference between IaaS and PaaS is that IaaS allows users to run their own operating systems and manage their own server instances, while PaaS providers offer preconfigured platforms that support multiple programming languages and frameworks such as Java, Ruby on Rails, Python, PHP,.NET, etc. SaaS refers to software delivered through the Internet which is accessed from anywhere any number of people want to use it. Saas is used to describe the consumption of services rather than the deployment of software. 

While all of these models have their pros and cons, we’ll focus on what makes them so attractive for small business owners who need a flexible solution that doesn’t require much up front investment. 

Let’s start by looking at the basic components of a typical cloud configuration. 

A cloud environment consists of three primary elements: hardware, software, and connectivity. These elements work together to create an efficient and reliable system. **Hardware** includes the physical equipment you need to store and process information. It could be anything from a single PC to a large cluster of servers. 

**Software** is the program that actually processes information. You’re probably familiar with common examples like Microsoft Word or Adobe Photoshop. Most modern office suites come with word processing and image manipulation tools built right into the programs. But don’t forget about other popular apps like Excel spreadsheets and accounting packages. All of these programs are available online, making them easy to access when you’re working remotely. 

Finally, connectivity refers to how things get from place to place. This might seem obvious, but you should consider the speed of Internet connections before choosing one. Some ISPs will give you a faster connection if you agree to pay more money each month. Others will limit you to slower speeds because they can only provide so much bandwidth. The best option is usually to shop around until you find a provider that meets your needs. 

As you can see, cloud computing has become a very popular way to do business. Whether you choose public, private, hybrid, or community cloud environments, the choice is yours. But don’ t just take our word for it; here are some of the most compelling reasons why so many businesses are turning to the cloud. 

## Cloud Computing Benefits For Small Businesses 

**1) Cost Savings**

One of the biggest advantages of using cloud technology is the fact that you don’t have to invest in expensive hardware or software. Instead, you simply pay a monthly fee for everything you need. That means you can scale your infrastructure based on demand without worrying about overspending. If you know you won’t need to support more than 10 computers today, you may decide to purchase fewer machines than you would otherwise. However, if you anticipate high usage levels tomorrow, you can easily add additional capacity. 

**2) Flexibility** 

Cloud-based solutions are extremely scalable. In addition to being able to adjust resources based on demand, you can also change configurations whenever necessary. If you suddenly realize you need to increase security, you can add extra firewalls or anti-virus software. Or maybe you notice that your website isn’t performing well enough, and you want to make changes to improve its performance. No problem! With cloud computing, you can move as many files as you need between different locations to test out new code. And since all of this data is stored in remote locations, you never run the risk of losing any important information. 

**3) Security** 

The cloud provides a level of protection against hackers that simply doesn’t exist anywhere else. Since all of your data is stored offsite, there’s no reason to worry about someone gaining physical access to your computer or laptop. And even if someone were to somehow gain control of your devices, they wouldn’t be able to access anything sensitive. Your personal documents and financial records would remain safe. 

**4) Scalability** 

Another great advantage of cloud computing is that it allows you to quickly expand or contract your operations as needed. If you start receiving an unusually large volume of traffic, you can simply purchase more servers to handle the load. You could also opt to use virtualization instead of purchasing new equipment. Virtualization allows you to create multiple copies of your operating system, applications, and data, which makes it easier to manage when you need to upgrade or replace older systems. 

**5) Mobility** 

You can access your data from virtually anywhere at any time. Since everything is stored remotely, you can log into your account from any device – whether it’s a desktop PC, tablet, smartphone, or other mobile device. This means you can work from home, travel, or go to another location where you might not normally be able to connect to the Internet. 

**6) Availability** 

With cloud services, downtime is almost nonexistent. Even if one server goes down, you can always access your data through one of the others. Also, because your data is stored in multiple places, you never lose power or suffer a natural disaster. All of your files will still be available after a blackout, flood, or earthquake. 

**7) Reduced Costs** 

One of the best things about cloud computing is that you don’ t have to spend money up front. Instead, you only pay for what you use. As long as you aren’t running low on storage space, bandwidth, or processing power, you won’t ever have to buy anything. Of course, you do have to pay a monthly fee to keep your account active, but that cost is typically much less than traditional IT expenses.