The Basic Architecture of Cloud Computing

One of the advantages of cloud computing is that both small and medium sized businesses can instantly obtain the benefits of the enormous ...

The Basic Architecture of Cloud Computing

One of the most perplexing aspects of cloud computing to most people is how it works; or more specifically, how it is structured. Cloud computing is essentially a series of levels that function together in various ways to create a system; this system is also referred to as cloud computing architecture.

There are essentially 3 tiers in a basic cloud computing architecture, they are:

• Applications
• Platform / Programming
• Resources / Infrastructure

These 3 tiers may be combined or implemented in many different ways to form any number of cloud computing architectural designs. If we further break down the standard cloud computing architecture there are really two areas to deal with; the front end and back end.

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Front End

The front end includes all client (user) devices and hardware in addition to their computer network and the application that they actually use to make a connection with the cloud.

Back End

The back end is populated with the various servers, data storage devices and hardware that facilitate the functionality of a cloud computing network.

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Let's begin by examining things from the Applications (user) level and then work our way inward toward the actual resources / hardware / Infrastructure of the cloud.

Applications / (User Level)

This area is compromised of the client hardware and the interface used to connect to the cloud. There are many different ways that users can access and use a cloud network.

• Through a privately built, owned and operated cloud network.
• Through an outsourced service in which another company provides all the hardware, software and access required. In a model such as this the provider is usually located offsite (this model is comparable to the type of service provide by utility companies).
• Other companies may simply offer users access to a specific application / software that performs specific tasks.

Platform / Programming

A cloud computing network's platform is the actual programming, code and implemented systems of interfacing that help user-level devices (and applications) connect with the hardware and software resources of the cloud. A cloud computing platform is generally divided up between the front end and back end of a network. Its job is to provide a communication and access portal for the client, so that they may effectively utilize the resources of the cloud network. The platform may only be a set of directions, but it is in all actuality the most integral part of a cloud computing network; without it cloud computing would not be possible.

Resources / Infrastructure

The resources / infrastructure of cloud computing architecture is essentially all the hardware, data storage devices (including virtualized hardware), networking equipment, applications and software that operates and drives the cloud. The speed, fluidity and abilities of the cloud are all a part of the design of the infrastructure. Any changes, improvements or additions that are made in the cloud are performed here.

The rules associated with cloud computing architectural design are in flux, nothing is set in stone. This is because cloud computing is still in its infancy. Most groups are content to do their R&D with open-source models, which allow any number of individuals to make modifications to individual components of any cloud computing architectural development. The benefit here is that it's much cheaper, faster and often times more creative. In the coming years as cloud computing asserts its dominance (over traditional grid-based networking) there will likely be many new developments and changes to the basic architecture currently in use.

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