Cloud Computing FAQ: What is Public Cloud?

Any digital transformation (DX) journey starts with understanding its fundamental components. In other words, a vital element of DX includes comprehending cloud computing, which has rapidly become an enabler of digital transformation for organizations.

To begin the series of articles on “Cloud Computing” we will start with a series of FAQs on cloud computing. Subsequently, it is followed by a set of markets performance articles set in 2020, revolving around some of the Southeast Asian countries.

Q: What is Cloud Computing and Public Cloud?

A: Cloud computing is computing services that include storage capabilities, applications or virtual machines. In addition, the cloud service providers, usually a third party and independent provider, distributes various solutions . These services are available online and can be accessed by anyone with internet access. Furthermore, Customers are able to purchase the services on-demand and charges are on average based on on usage (per CPU cycles, storage or bandwidth).

Q: What are the differences between Public and Private Clouds?

The stark differences between these different types of cloud is the security level users desire from the services.

  • Private cloud usually refers to cloud services whereby a cloud provider will cater to a specific organization. Furthermore, their cloud infrastructure is usually on-premise. Private cloud is a popular option for enterprises that prefers a tighter security. Morever, the services are specifically for the members of the enterprises.
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  • Public Cloud is a service that stores and manages customer data in a common data centre. This allows customers to share a virtual resource while maintaining the privacy of each user’s data. Cloud service providers (CSPs) will take on the responsibility of managing and maintaining the system.
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Q: What are the services under Public Cloud?

A: The three broad services within cloud computing are Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) and Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS).

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Components of IaaS, SaaS and PaaS

However, there are a number of distinctive types of public cloud services that differs from one CSP to another. Hence, there are also more specific computing services under these three services. For example, Disaster Recovery- as-a-Service and Backup-as-a-Service are services under IaaS.

Q: What is Infrastructure-as-a-Service?

A: IaaS is the solution offering a full compute stack which includes servers, storage, networking and operating software. In addition, cloud service providers manages the main infrastructure consisting of different types of solution for customers. Therefore, provider will host everything, from storage to computing capabilities on behalf of the users.

Q: What is Platform-as-a-Service?

A: PaaS is a service that allows users to virtually create software in the cloud, without having to acquire the infrastructure needed to build a software. CSPs are responsible for building a virtual environment that allows users a viable platform to create software with just an internet connection.

Q: What is Software-as-a-Service?

A: SaaS is a solution that is hosted from the cloud and is distributed to the user as a form service. Users are able to access the software from the internet and it does not require to be downloaded into the computer. The updates on the software are maintained by the CSPs.

Q: What are the benefits of using cloud computing?

  • Hassle free management – Using public cloud allows customers to save on purchasing, managing and maintaining on-premise hardware and applications. As CSPs take on the responsibilities of managing the cloud computing system, it is relatively easier and faster to deploy cloud computing services after purchasing them.
  • Connectivity in a remote working environment – As the resources are virtualized online, users are able to access and manage complex applications anywhere as long as they are connected to the internet.
  • Scalability – as enterprises grow, the opportunities to process, manage and store data with cloud becoming increasingly infinite. As CSPs are responsible for building a computing ecosystem that is scalable, a dip or an increase in usage is possible when required.


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