Exploring cloud computing types: public, private, hybrid and multicloud

Cloud computing revolutionises businesses’ operations by providing flexible and scalable solutions for storing, managing, and accessing data and applications. However, not all cloud environments are equal. Companies must understand the different types of cloud computing to make informed decisions about their IT infrastructure. This blog helps your business explore each kind, their advantages and disadvantages. 

What is cloud computing? 

At its core, cloud computing refers to delivering computing resources over the internet. Instead of hosting applications and storing data on local servers, businesses can leverage remote servers and data centres provided by cloud service providers.  

Cloud computing offers numerous benefits, including scalability, cost-efficiency, flexibility, and enhanced accessibility. Its models and platforms enable organisations to tailor their cloud infrastructure to meet specific requirements and optimise their IT operations. 

The types of cloud computing

Cloud computing is categorised into different types based on deployment models and configurations. The main types are public, private, hybrid, and multiclouds. We’ll explain them for a better understanding of their characteristics and usage: 

Public cloud

A public cloud is a cloud computing environment where multiple users share resources and services over a public network, such as the internet. It provides a cost-effective solution for businesses to access a wide range of services. 

Moreover, businesses leverage the infrastructure of established third-party providers like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). These providers own and operate this type of cloud and offer services on a pay-as-you-go basis, including computing power, storage, and software applications.

The advantages of public cloud  

  • No maintenance; 
  • Reduced infrastructure management; 
  • Reduced latency and improved user experience.

The disadvantages of public cloud 

  • Limited control over security and data privacy; 
  • Dependency on the service provider’s infrastructure; 
  • Potential performance issues due to shared resources.

Private cloud

Private cloud computing utilises dedicated infrastructure exclusively for a single organisation. It can be deployed on-premises or hosted by a third-party provider. Moreover, it offers enhanced control, security, and customisation options.

Industries with strict compliance and data security requirements, such as finance and healthcare, often favour private clouds. Its solutions allow organisations to tailor their infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency while meeting specific needs. 

The advantages of private cloud 

  • Enhanced security and data privacy; 
  • Compliance with industry regulations; 
  • Customisation to meet specific needs.

The disadvantages of private cloud 

  • Limited scalability compared to public clouds; 
  • Higher initial investment and maintenance costs; 
  • Requires dedicated IT staff for management and maintenance.

Hybrid cloud

A hybrid cloud combines the best of both worlds by integrating public and private cloud environments. The seamless integration allows businesses to optimise workloads and gain flexibility in managing their IT resources.

Organisations can benefit from the scalability and cost-efficiency of public clouds. The hybrid cloud approach allows businesses to optimise their IT resources, balancing cost savings and data protection. 

The advantages of hybrid cloud 

  • Easy data migration and backup options; 
  • Redundancy and disaster recovery capabilities; 
  • Flexibility to allocate workloads based on requirements.

The disadvantages of hybrid cloud 

  • Complex implementation and management; 
  • Dependence on reliable network connectivity; 
  • Potential compatibility issues between different environments

Multicloud

Multicloud refers to an infrastructure that incorporates multiple cloud computing platforms and providers. It enables organisations to diversify their cloud resources, leverage unique features from different providers, and avoid vendor lock-in.

This approach allows businesses to select the most suitable services from various providers based on specific requirements, such as performance, cost, and geographic availability. It empowers them to optimise their cloud ecosystem, enhancing flexibility, resilience, and access to the best market offerings. 

The advantages of multicloud 

  • Redundancy and increased fault tolerance;  
  • Flexibility to choose the best services from multiple providers; 
  • Geographic distribution for enhanced performance and compliance.

The disadvantages of multicloud 

  • Increased complexity in management and integration; 
  • Potential interoperability challenges between different platforms; 
  • Requires expertise in selecting and managing multiple cloud providers.

The importance of understanding cloud computing types

Cloud computing gives businesses unprecedented opportunities to transform their operations. Embracing the right cloud computing strategy drives innovation, streamlines operations and enables you to stay ahead in today’s competitive landscape. 

If you need help setting up the right cloud computing strategy for your company, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We’ll find the best IT professional to optimise your business.