CLOUD PLATFORM

A Cloud platform is a system that delivers computing resources—such as processing power, storage, and software—over the internet. This allows users to access and utilize these resources without having to invest in purchasing the physical hardware and software themselves. Cloud providers, like Google Cloud Platform (GCP), offer a wide variety of services that can be chosen based on business requirements.

1. Deployment Models
    •    Public Cloud: A third-party provider allocates resources over the public internet to multiple customers simultaneously. Examples include Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
    •    Private Cloud: Cloud services designed exclusively for a single organization, which may be hosted in their own data center or managed by an external provider.
    •    Hybrid Cloud: A combination of Public Cloud, Private Cloud, and on-premises infrastructure, allowing data and applications to be shared and integrated across these different environments.

2. Service Models
    •    SaaS (Software as a Service): Ready-to-use software applications delivered to users over the internet. Examples include Google Workspace and Microsoft 365.
    •    PaaS (Platform as a Service): Provides a platform for developers to build and deploy applications without the need to manage the underlying infrastructure. An example is Google App Engine.
    •    IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): Offers fundamental hardware resources like servers, storage, and networking that users can manage as needed. Examples include AWS and Azure.