A cloud server is an IT infrastructure (physical or virtual) designed to store and process information. It is hosted and provisioned over a network and available to multiple users. Like a traditional physical server, a cloud server provides computing capacities, stores information, and applications. The difference is that a cloud server is created by virtualization software to partition a physical server into multiple virtual ones.
There are three basic cloud server models:
Public Cloud Server. The provider hosts infrastructure and allocates the necessary amount of resources to customers. The server is owned and hosted by a third party, outside the enterprise.
Private cloud server. In this organizational model, an enterprise provides a cloud server to internal users via a local network. The server remains within the company’s infrastructure, enabling more control over it.
Dedicated cloud server. This is a physical server located in a remote data center and available to only one customer.
How cloud server works
The company rents virtual server space in the cloud, thereby saving money and space on its premises. This is achieved by eliminating capital expenditures and spending on IT staffing, infrastructure maintenance, and upgrades.
Storage resources are the most common use of the cloud. But beyond that, it is also used to host applications, software (SaaS), and more. That said, unlike a traditional physical server, with a cloud you are not limited in the amount of data you can store or actively use. Instead of paying for hardware, software, and applications all at once, you can rent solutions on a pay-as-you-go billing system.
Cloud server use cases
Over the past decade, the cloud has grown tremendously and now it is not just storage but a full-fledged virtual infrastructure. There are several potential cloud server use cases for businesses of all sizes and industries to consider.
Cloud storage. A cloud provider is responsible for maintaining servers where customers’ data is stored, allowing businesses to reduce the cost of their infrastructure management. In addition, it is profitable from a financial point of view – providers offer either a fixed rate for data storage or a pay-as-you-go model, which allows users to store data off-site cost-effectively.
Scaling resources. Your business may expand and need to increase or reallocate IT resources. Fortunately, the cloud makes it easy for users to increase or decrease resources in a few clicks.
Backup and Disaster Recovery. Storing extra copies of corporate data can create a great load on a company's resources. You can store a backup in the cloud to keep those resources offsite. The cloud guarantees your data will be protected in the event of an onsite server disaster.
Hosting applications and services. Instead of relying on physical hardware, a company can host projects in the cloud that can be accessed by users anywhere in the world.
Increased collaboration. Cloud solutions help increase collaboration between employees, which is especially acute in the case of remote work. Cloud solutions allow multiple users to work on projects together using the same environment.
Cloud server from Cloud4U
The only objective reason for not switching corporate IT infrastructure to the cloud is government regulations and bans. Regulatory agencies may close or restrict access to critical information of national security agencies or financial institutions. For the rest, cloud migration simplifies business operations, expands its capabilities, and improves IT infrastructure efficiency. Users get access to a completely different experience, flexibility, and the ability to implement innovative technologies.
Given the attractive features of cloud servers, such as easy deployment, mobility, availability, and easy collaboration, your business projects will become more efficient. Cloud4U provides a cloud infrastructure rental service. This is a cost-effective strategy that will have long-term benefits for users. Try out a cloud server on a free trial right now.