Hard Truths About Cloud Differences

Grazed from InformationWeek. Author: Jim Ditmore.

We’re long into the hype cycle of cloud computing. That means clear criteria to assess and evaluate the different options are critical. Which of the many cloud approaches should medium to large enterprises take to optimize their data center operations?

Typically, the cloud is envisioned as an accessible and low-cost compute utility in the sky that’s always available. Despite this lofty promise, companies will need to select and build their cloud environment carefully to avoid fracturing their computing capabilities, locking themselves into a single, higher-cost environment, diminishing their ability to differentiate themselves and gain competitive advantage — or all three…

Here’s a primer on the different types of cloud computing. Note the positioning of the two dominant cloud types:

• Specialized software-as-a-service (SaaS), where the entire stack, from server to application (even version), is provided with minimal variation.
• Generic infrastructure- and platform-as-a-service (IaaS and PaaS), where a set of server and operating versions is available with types of storage. Any compatible database, middleware or application can be installed to then run…

Read more from the source @ http://www.informationweek.com/cloud-computing/software/hard-truths-about-cloud-differences/240145514