Types of Cloud Computing Deployment Models

By Darshik Jariwala - March, 26th 2015

Cloud computing being such a vast field in itself in IT, people are often confused between different branches of cloud. There’s cloud services, cloud storage and as what we are about to discuss, the types of cloud computing deployment models. Although Cloud storage is pretty clear, there’s often a slight confusion between cloud services and cloud deployment models among novices. So here are the types of Cloud computing Deployment models. Typically there are 4 types; Public Cloud, Private Cloud, Community Cloud and Hybrid Cloud.  

Public Cloud 

Public cloud is a model where the Cloud Service Provider dynamically provides infrastructure to an organization as per requirement under shared resources. It is a multi tenant environment where many organizations shares the resources provided by the cloud service provider. It is flexible and scalable as per the requirement. The vendor can dynamically scale the resources on demand. The possibility of scarcity of resources owing to the shared environment is extremely rare. The downside of public cloud is that the organizations do not have direct control over the infrastructure or data and they remain dependent on the cloud service vendor in case any issues arise. 

Private Cloud 

Private cloud model lets the organizations have resources dedicated solely to them and even have the option to host them on-premises. However, it does provide the same level scalability and flexibility as the other cloud model. Unlike public cloud, private cloud provisions the company with the capability of control. It is very beneficial for companies who would like to have control over resources being used and  the data being shared to have a better sense and grip over security. It can still be scaled on-demand as would be typically expected. Private cloud may also be expensive compared to Public cloud.

Community Cloud 

In the Community Cloud model, multiple organizations who share similar policies and compliances agree to jointly share a their cloud computing resources and infrastructure as per their needs. It makes community cloud a public yet works as a private cloud deployment. However, since it is shared by multiple organizations it helps reduce costs for all of them. It is particularly helpful when the organizations require access to the same data.  

Hybrid Cloud 

As the name itself suggests, Hybrid cloud is nothing but a combination of other cloud models. Some companies may have their own unique requirements which propel them to use for instance Public cloud for cost effectiveness and Private cloud for handle over their data and its security. However, it is imperative that the companies plan meticulously if they decide on deploying Public and Private cloud, and more if they require for public and private cloud to communicate with each other.  

Conclusion 

As is always emphasized in any discussion pertaining to adopting cloud computing services and models, a company should very carefully evaluate their situation, requirements, needs and especially budget before entering in to any investment for deploying any of the cloud model mentioned above. 

Feature Photo Credit –  FutUndBeidl/Flickr