What is Cloud Server?
There are four major hosting servers in the market:
– Shared Server
– Virtual Private Server (VPS)
– Dedicated Server
– Cloud Server
Earlier, we shared the Four Steps to Choose a Suitable Web Host and also discuss in detail what shared servers and dedicated servers are. Today, let’s share more about Cloud Server.
The cloud server is a virtual server with no physical presence and is connected through a network via the internet. The server is built, hosted, and delivered in a cloud computing environment and can be accessed remotely.
Quoted by Quincy Carl from Quora
Cloud servers are also known as virtual servers which can be located anywhere in the world and accessed remotely. They have all the software they require to run and function as independent units.
Key features of cloud servers include the following:
– Monthly pay-as-you-go payments
– Automated services and updates
– Same capabilities as an in-person server without the heavy metal
How Does A Cloud Server Work?
A cloud server is made possible through virtualization. It is possible to build on its platform different service models. Providers offer cloud services based on three models:
1. IaaS (Infrastructure-as-a-Service)
A model in which a 3rd party provider host servers, storage and other virtualized compute resources and make them available to customers over the internet.
Example: AWS, Microsoft Azure and Google Compute Engine
2. PaaS (Platform-as-a-Service)
A model in which a 3rd party provider hosts application development platforms and tools on its own infrastructure and makes them available to customers over the internet.
Example: AWS Elastic Beanstalk, Google App Engine and Heroku
3. SaaS (Software-as-a-Service)
A software distribution model in which a 3rd party provider hosts applications and makes them available to customers over the internet.
Examples: Salesforce, NetSuite and Concur
Types of Cloud Servers
1. Public Cloud Servers
This type of server is the most commonly deployed via the public cloud. In this case, the public cloud provider hosts on its own infrastructure and delivers to users across the internet using a web-based interface or console.
2. Private Cloud Servers
Users can host their own cloud server privately and maintain control of their management and maintenance. These server resources will not be shared with other companies or individuals. However, they can be accessed remotely by any employee through a company intranet or VPN.
3. Dedicated Cloud Servers
his type of server is typically used when an organization must deploy a custom virtualization layer or mitigate performance and security concerns.
Three Delivery Models
1. Public Cloud
A cloud computing model in which a 3rd party provider makes compute resources available to the general public over the internet. With the public cloud, enterprises do not have to set up and maintain their own cloud servers in house.
Characteristics
– Multi-tenant architecture
– Pay-as-you-go pricing model
Top Vendors:
AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud
2. Private Cloud
A cloud computing model in which an enterprise uses a proprietary architecture and runs cloud servers within its own data centre.
Characteristics
– Single-tenant architecture
– On-premises hardware
– Direct control of underlying cloud infrastructure
Top Vendors:
– HPE, VMware, Dell EMC, IBM/Red Hat, Microsoft, OpenStack
3. Hybrid Cloud
A cloud computing model that includes a mix of on-premises, private cloud and 3rd party public cloud services with orchestration between the 2 platforms.
Characteristics
– Cloud bursting capabilities
– Benefits of both public and private environments
Top Vendors:
– A combination of both public and private cloud providers
Cloud Server VS Physical Server
Cloud Server | Physical Server |
A virtual or bare-metal server that a cloud provider hosts on its infrastructure and delivers to users over a network | A physical server that an enterprise purchase, installs and maintain in its own data centre |
Best for enterprises that have variable workloads | Best for enterprises with predictable, demanding or sensitive workloads |
Providers include AWS, Azure and Google | Providers include Dell EMC, HPE and IBM |
Why Use Cloud Servers?
1. Quick Start-up
A cloud server allows you to redistribute the capacity in the server rack, allocating the necessary resources in a few clicks.
2. Globalization
The cloud server can be accessed anywhere as long there is internet access. Therefore, your team of members can share, edit and discuss work and data from anywhere in the world.
3. Flexibility
Users can reboot and reinstall the server, create snapshots, upgrade the system, and install/update software. Operation via a terminal is supported.
4. Security
Cloud provider ensures a level of data security suitable for the storage of any sensitive information: accounting, personal data, scientific information and so on.
5. Storage
Backup and restoration of data can be done from anywhere using any computer or smart device with internet access.
6. Reliability
Virtual servers are stored on two physical servers at once. If something happens to one, the user will not even notice the failure. At the company level, this stability is possible, but it will be very expensive. It is cheaper and easier to use the cloud.
Get Started With Cloud Servers
A cloud server is a useful solution for companies looking to grow and successfully compete in the market. Moving to the cloud gives quick access to cheap but reliable production equipment.
With Cloud server, you can create a cloud server in a few clicks. Data is increasingly valuable, and keeping and protecting large amounts of it is one of the cloud servers’ biggest positive outcomes. Partnering with one of the best cloud servers will give your business an undeniable edge.
Cloud-based file servers offer you an efficient solution to grow your online business. Contact us to get the best offer possible for you and your business.