How Does A Cloud Server Work
If you have bought hosting, online storage space or even a smartphone, then you’ve probably heard about cloud servers. This is a somewhat new marketing buzzword that manufacturers and service providers are using because everyone knows that the cloud is better and more versatile than regular servers, but what is the real difference? The truth is that both cloud and traditional servers use nearly the same physical hardware, but they focus on different attributes and offer distinct services.
The Traditional Model
Before understanding what makes cloud servers so special, you first need to understand what the traditional model is. Traditional servers focus almost solely on hardware. Whenever you want to store information, that information is physically stored within a hard drive. While data can be virtualized, it’s difficult to escape the confines of that hard drive. Data can also be moved, but it requires hours of work to get your data from one server to another.
The difference is most pronounced with dedicated hosting, which is when you buy an entire server to host your website. The hosting company will build a physical server for you based on your hardware and software requirements. Since they are building from scratch, it can take days or weeks before the server is ready.
The Cloud Model
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The cloud uses nearly the same servers, but the focus is completely different. Unlike traditional servers that focus on stringent limits, the cloud model focuses on making storage and hosting a true service. Many experts liken the cloud model to a utility bill. Instead of paying a flat rate for services that you may or may not use, the cloud model has liquid limits that change with your unique use.
If your data needs change, then your section of the server is increased or decreased based on your needs. You are then only charged for what you use. This is done by focusing on software and virtualization.
Virtualization exists in the traditional model, but it’s stressed in the cloud model. This is when an entire server is boiled down to its digital components. Several virtual servers can exist on one physical server. While the hardware is still needed to power the virtual servers, the focus is more on the digital side of the server.
There is also a management program that is constantly watching the virtualized servers. This program knows when a section needs more or less power, and it also ensures that the server can keep up with the needs of every cloud section.
Movement and Scaling
The traditional model allows data to be moved from one server to another, and the server can be scaled to meet the client’s needs. The difference is that moving data can take hours since the hardware must be installed, and scaling can take days since the hardware much be upgraded or downgraded based on the user’s needs.
Cloud servers treat movement and scaling as a priority rather than an afterthought. Since everything is virtualized and digital, it’s very easy to move or scale data. It can take seconds to move data from one server to another if the servers are networked together.
Scaling is similar to the traditional model. If the server is overwhelmed, then the CPU or hard drive must be upgraded. The difference is that each node in the server can be given more data temporarily until the service provider has time to upgrade the server. You won’t even notice the downtime.
Easy Access
Another major component of cloud services is that you can easily access the data from any computer that has an Internet connection. The truth is that the traditional model allows access like this, but it’s limited due to security reasons.
This type of access is often cited as a security concern because it’s somewhat easier to hack into a cloud server, but the advantages far outweigh the problems. Workers can get files and documents without going to the office, and consumers can watch movies and see their photos and files from any smartphone or computer.
Conclusion
Traditional servers and cloud servers both have nearly the same hardware, but the major differences are the focus and the type of software. Cloud servers focus on virtualization, movement and specialized management programs that keep everything under control.
Rosa Smith uses and contributes on behalf of ProfitBricks, the leader in cloud computing companies, when working remotely on her personal blog. A cloud server is a great way to customize your businesses cloud network to fit your needs.