Using cloud technologies has become a must for businesses. Due to the increased demand, the cloud market has grown at a rapid pace. Numerous providers are offering multiple choices.
It can be a challenge for any new company to look for a cloud management platform (CMP). Here are a few tips on how to select the right cloud service provider for infrastructure automation.
Criteria for Selecting Cloud Platforms
There are several features offered by different cloud platforms. You need to have a better understanding of these features to make an informed choice. The criteria can be divided into three business needs.
- Type of data you store– Sensitive or non-sensitive information will define the type of cloud platform you should choose
- The number of devices to connect to your platform– You need to examine the size of your business and scalability you need. Remember, the more people will join, the less secure your data will be.
- Budget- Some services are free, while some need premium access. The security levels of these services differ. The paid services have the highest level of protection.
Understanding Types of CMP
The choice of CMP depends on your business needs.
Public Clouds– These cloud platforms serve multiple customers and use shared infrastructure. Public clouds are suitable for non-sensitive storage. You have free and pay-per-use options on these platforms. However, these platforms are more vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Flexibility, scalability, and reasonable prices make public clouds attractive.
Private Clouds– They serve one customer and use proprietary software. Private clouds are suitable for storing sensitive data. They work well for changing business models. Also, these platforms are ideal if your business has unpredictable needs. Scalability and high security make these platforms attractive for companies with large budgets and sensitive information.
Hybrid Clouds – They offer the best of both worlds – public and private clouds. These cloud service providers manage multiple public and private clouds, and they may shift workloads between them. The service provider may use an on-premise repository to store sensitive data and a public cloud to store non-sensitive information. These cloud platforms offer maximum flexibility and enhanced agility. Microsoft Azure is one of such complex hybrid platforms which is preferred by businesses. Learn more about Azure Migration Services and Azure Windows Virtual Desktop Pricing.
Contract Management Software As Example of Software Using CMP
A company’s contract metadata should be one of the most heavily guarded, well-protected, assets of the company. The best way to fortify the defenses and improve the data collection process is through the use of a cloud management platform. GatekeeperHQ, for instance, is a cloud-based contract lifecycle management system. You can rest assured that your important documents will be safe online from prying eyes, thieves and fires.
Important Cloud Features to Prefer
When you have decided on the right type of cloud management platform, check the main features offered by the platform that satisfy your business requirements.
Self-service– This is the interface through which you log in and manage your infrastructure. It should be easy to choose configurations and execute deployments. Most cloud service providers offer a list of configuration templates you can select and customize.
Workload and optimization – All CMP features should be linked and should seamlessly work together. The idea here is to manage your resources better. The platform should allow the creation of policies with instructions. For example, provision a new server every time a physical server used up to 70%. Add 2GB RAM when VM resources reach up to 75%. The service provider should allow you to make your own management rules.
Here are some other important considerations:
- Should cover four pillars of cloud success- Security, performance, cost, and DR
- Depth of usage visibility
- Granularity of governance
- Actionable and customization of reports
So, this is all application architects and business decision-makers need to know to understand the cloud management platforms and their functioning. If you have any questions about cloud enablement or colocation, don’t hesitate to reach out to DataSite.