Posted on November 2, 2021
Cloud
A cloud-based server is a virtual server as opposed to a physical server which runs within a cloud computing environment. Cloud servers are built, hosted and delivered via the cloud using the internet and can be easily accessed from anywhere.
The information that can be accessed is remotely stored in a virtual space which is why it is called a cloud server. It’s available remotely from any device.
Cloud-based servers are made using virtualization software to separate bare metal servers (physical servers) into several cloud servers. Organizations frequently rely on Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) to store valuable information and process workload.
Key features of cloud-based servers comprise of computing infrastructure that can be physical, virtual or a hybrid of both whilst maintaining all capabilities of on-premises servers. Cloud servers give organizations the ability to process high level workloads and simultaneously store large amounts of data. There is also the option for shared hosting that scales based on organizational need. Furthermore, automated services can be accessed via API on demand.
A bare metal server is a physical server whereby operating systems are installed on the server itself which offers flexibility for the tenant using the server. The purpose of a bare metal server is to provide better overall performance than alternative options. This is because the operating systems are installed in such a way that offers unrivalled flexibility. A bare metal server is the best option if you are planning to give your organization space to grow whilst future proofing your system.
There are a number of factors to consider when deciding between a cloud server and an in-house server. Cloud-based servers can be more costly but they have a host of additional benefits such as guaranteed levels of uptime.
Having in-house servers can work for companies that don’t feel they need to rely on the internet whereas cloud servers work more efficiently for remote access.
In-house servers allow your organization to have physical control over your backup, keeps data in house, is more cost effective and removes the need to rely on the internet to access the stored information.
On the other hand, in-house servers need capital investment for the hardware, space within your office for a server room, higher risk of data loss during disaster due to the in-house location and no guarantees of recovery.
The advantages of cloud-based servers include that there is no need for onsite hardware or the expenses that come along with this, storage can be added on demand, backup and restoration can be triggered remotely from any device and data can be protected regularly with ongoing backup cycles.
There are cons to cloud-based servers as well, such as; organizations could have a limit to data that is stored due to availability and cost. If the internet fails then you won’t have the access you require. There are also potential resource concerns over data loss and downtime.
Organizations choose cloud-based servers because they are cost-effective, offer scope for scalability and can be integrated to ensure uninterrupted communication and complete control.
Cloud servers are equipped for highly variable workloads whereas bare metal servers are better for data-intensive workloads.
Virtualization means that cloud-based servers can be either physical or virtual. There are a whole host of security options for cloud servers however physical servers have more extensive customization choices.
Managed cloud services mean that your organization gets hands-on support inclusive of simplified customer journey, automated set up and integrated governance. The benefits of managed cloud services consist of robust infrastructure with fast response times, coverage across all service levels, future proofed technology and trusted disaster recovery.