Hybrid cloud computing solutions allow companies to enjoy the benefits of public and private clouds at the same time. Many organizations are opting for this model, but making the transition can be challenging. There are different hybrid cloud deployment models and the would vary according to the integration option adapted. In order to understand the different deployment models, we will take a look at the different options available: application, data and infrastructure. It should be noted that in order to ensure the correct deployment of a hybrid system, it is important to consider the extent of the integration across the private and public cloud environment. Here is a look at the different types of Hybrid cloud models.
Hybrid Infrastructure Model
When it comes to the infrastructure model, the hybrid cloud deployment model relies on the virtual machine (movements and extensions) for its integration. This level of integration requires virtual machine management, in which the VM may be shared or extended by private and public clouds. It is important to reduce or fully prevent conversion during the transfer processes across both public and private clouds.
In order to manage this type of integration in an effective manner, it will be necessary to use single pane views as well as virtual machine management tools within the premises, for public cloud services, as well as private ones. To manage the movement of VM images to facilitate portability in this hybrid model, additional infrastructure support is needed, with the help of a Virtual Private Network. It is also likely that data synchronization is needed in order to move or synchronize the data in the form of Virtual Machine servers.
The hybrid infrastructure model works better for companies that need to extend outside their private cloud services to support an increase in traffic and use. This is probably more related to apps that are not crucial or data that is in the test or development environment. This kind of deployment model needs an optimal setup of network connectivity and security options, as well as firewall rules for the VPN.
Hybrid Application Model
In the application-based level, the integration system facilitate interaction across public and private cloud services. This is why, this model is also known as Hybrid Application and Services and it depends on the middleware integration services layer for its integration. The applications data or services on-premise could be accessed from public cloud services. The middle layer in a public cloud model is used in scenarios like the Enterprise Service Bus (ESB) or the Internet Service Bus (ISB).
The middle layer offers interaction options like message and event based calls available on API or REST services directly from on-premise applications and applies design principles like service abstraction. Securing communications with https for public cloud services can help to reduce security risks for on-premise applications or services that may be called by external apps, more effectively.
The Hybrid applications and services model is ideal for integration and supports the expansion that may be needed for applications. Data aggregation dashboards and publish-subscribe models accessible to APIs or mobile apps on a public cloud are examples of this integration. Monthly report calculations demonstrate how on-demand expansion for applications can be met.
Hybrid Data Model
The data-based deployment model is related to the size of the data on-premise. It requires moving data that is not used on a regular basis, from the premise to the public cloud and accessing that data when needed, using on-premise apps. This is needed to control the costs associated to the increase on the size of the data in the company premises.
In order to avoid high costs when managing on-location data, the public cloud is used to extend the storage space for this data that is not used regularly. This may include logs, data archives and backups. It is possible to upload data easily to create reports, carry out aggregation, analytics and other tasks. In order to move data to the public cloud, it is necessary to use tools that have to identify which data is only used from time to time to upload it to the public cloud accordingly.
What about security?
Data security is critical when it comes to implementing a hybrid cloud system. Authenticated and secured HTTP/FTP communication is used to connect the tools with the public cloud. It is also important to observe compliance regulations related to moving data from the company premises to the public cloud. The data uploaded should be in compliance with the regulations in the public cloud location that is being used. Encryption can be applied to keep the data secure while it is stored in a public cloud service.
Conclusion
There are different options to implement hybrid cloud deployment models, depending on your needs. Before choosing an option to adopt a hybrid cloud model, make sure that you understand how each type works. Selecting the right model for your organization is important, but using a flexible approach will allow you to make any necessary changes or extensions at a later stage.
