Today’s world is one that increasingly moves within the digital realm. It should come as no surprise, then, that the business landscape is adapting to work with these needs rather than against them. From virtual work spaces to online knowledge bases, cloud computing has become a staple of even more traditional corporations that initially resisted the transition.
The cloud computing market is expected to reach $162 billion in 2020.
Responsible for innovative business models and growth, cloud platforms and the market that contains them are only expected to grow in popularity and value in the coming years. That means that more and more individuals and businesses are likely to rely on the cloud for many of their needs and goals. It’s an industry that is regularly transforming and evolving, however, and not all services are created equal.
ManagedIT understands that investing in cloud technology is a big decision for small businesses. We provide a comprehensive cloud strategy that integrates their budgetary needs, daily workflow, and growth goals for the future to help them make an informed decision.
If you’re considering transitioning to a cloud-based platform, or have already made the switch, you might consider taking the time to see how cloud architecture can help you get the most out of your services. Investing in the right cloud architecture can help ensure that your user experience is a seamless one that meets both your expectations and your goals.
What is cloud architecture?
Even if you’re familiar with cloud platforms and the ways they can help businesses grow and thrive, you might not have heard of the term “cloud architecture”. Much like the physical architecture you think of when looking at buildings, cloud architecture is the carefully designed foundation upon which your cloud service is built.
With the right cloud architecture, you should be able to use your cloud services without interruption or lagging. This is important, especially if you rely on these services to keep your business running effectively. Creating the best possible infrastructure to meet that goal can help enhance your cloud computing experience.
Cloud Infrastructure Basics
As briefly discussed above, cloud architecture refers to the different components, as well as sub-components, of the overall cloud platform. These form the system’s structure. The components of the cloud architecture are as follows:
1. Front End Platform
2. Back End Platform
3. Cloud-Based Delivery
4. The Network
You can think about cloud architecture as existing in two main sections: the front and back ends. These sections are connected to each other by the internet (or the intranet, depending upon your specific setup). Cloud architecture also covers a few additional areas, including cloud resources and middleware, among others.
Front-End Cloud Computing
Front-end computing, as the name suggests, is the visible side of cloud architecture. This is the part of the platform that can be seen by users. It includes the user interface as well as the client’s computer system or network, through which the cloud system is accessed.
Different cloud systems can have different user interfaces much like web browsers. They all accomplish the same thing, but they do so in varying degrees of style. The front-end of cloud architecture is where that style is visible.
Back-End Cloud Computing
The components of the back-end computing are not visible to the user and appear on the side of the service provider. These components can include:
• Servers
• Computer Systems
• Storage Systems
• Simulated Machines
Back-end computing also bears the responsibility of effectively delivering security processes, traffic control, and various protocols related to networked computers for the purpose of communication. The back-end of cloud architecture works behind the scenes to ensure that the front end works for users.
Cloud-Based Delivery
One of the main selling points of cloud computing services is that they can be accessed from anywhere, at any time. This means employees can access data while traveling and companies can more effectively use a remote workforce.
An effective architecture ensures that the goal of mobility is met. This means that the platform services (Office365, SalesForce, or QuickBooks, for example) work as expected no matter where you’re logging in from and that the delivery process is seamless.
Cloud Service Network
Cloud services are delivered publicly as well as privately by means of internet. You can also use it within the premises of a particular location – a company’s campus, for example – via the organization’s intranet.
Some users opt for a cloud service network that utilizes both intranet and internet while others will decide to use just one or the other. This decision largely depends upon the intended use of the cloud and whether employees are expected to access it when they are off of work premises. Regardless of its exact composition, the cloud service network supports an easy cloud-based delivery process.
What should my cloud architecture look like?
Don’t worry if you’re not sure exactly how you should build your cloud’s architecture – the experts at ManagedIT can help! We understand that IT can be a confusing area to efficiently optimize. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of services designed to help enhance your system without frustration or stress.
Reach out to us today for additional information!
If you are ready to take your cloud usage to the next level, give us a call or use the web form to contact us.
ManagedIT.SG is an IT Support, IT Solutioning and Managed IT Service Provider specializing in serving Small Businesses in Singapore. Call us at +65 6748 8776 and let us manage your Small Business IT today!