There are four main types of cloud computing: private clouds, public clouds, hybrid clouds, and multi-clouds.
Cloud Service Models
Cloud computing services have three main types: Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platforms-as-a-Service (PaaS), and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS).
Public Clouds
The public cloud refers to computing services over the internet by third-party providers, offering services that can be purchased or used by anyone interested. Users can access public clouds for free or on-demand, paying only for resources used.
Private Clouds
Choosing a cloud computing type is very crucial. Private cloud service is intended for single-use, resources found on-premises or a third-party operates offsite. When delicate data is involved, Federal agencies opt for personal clouds.
NIST lists five essential characteristics:
- On-demand self-service
- Broad network access
- Resource pooling
- Rapid elasticity
- Measured service