[Server] Advantages and disadvantages of using multi-cloud [Infrastructure]

This is Ohara from the technical sales department.

In recent years, it has become standard for companies and organizations to use cloud services, but there are also many cases where systems and applications are structured using a "multi-cloud" configuration of various cloud services rather than being limited to a specific cloud service

I also believe that there are companies that operate in a "hybrid configuration" where they use cloud services such as AWS for their main infrastructure, but also use on-premise (physical servers) for some system platforms

In this article, we will introduce examples of multi-cloud configurations for companies and organizations, along with their advantages and disadvantages

Multi-cloud configuration example

Multi-cloud refers to the infrastructure environment, concept, and configuration that combines and uses multiple cloud services

In recent years, due to factors such as technological advances in cloud services and changing business needs, an increasing number of companies and organizations are considering and adopting the implementation and operation of multi-cloud environments

As examples of multi-cloud configurations, the following conditions and configurations are possible, depending on the requirements of the systems and applications used by companies and organizations

Functional structure

This configuration combines different cloud services for different functions, for example, AWS for IaaS, Microsoft Azure for PaaS, and Google Cloud for SaaS, using each cloud service according to its strengths

● Example of functional configuration

・Main infrastructure environment: Various AWS services
・Content data distribution: Cloudflare CDN
・Object storage for data storage: WASABI
・Application authentication platform: Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD)
・Big data analysis platform: Google BigQuery
・Collaboration tool: Google Workspace

Regional breakdown

This is a configuration in which different cloud services are combined and used in different regions. For example, AWS is used for systems in Japan, and Microsoft Azure or Google Cloud is used for systems overseas. This is a method of utilizing cloud services according to the requirements of the company and region using the cloud

If you want to ensure data redundancy, you can store your data in different clouds and combine Amazon S3 and Google Cloud Storage to store your data in different clouds, thereby achieving data redundancy

Additionally, if a company has a local subsidiary in China, one option is to use cloud services such as Alibaba Cloud, which has access to the China region

Hybrid Configuration

This configuration combines on-premise systems with cloud services. For example, existing systems continue to operate on-premise, while new systems are built in the cloud

For example, if you use AWS Storage Gateway or AWS Outposts to connect to your on-premises network environment and seamlessly integrate your on-premises and cloud systems, you can operate your system while enjoying the benefits of both on-premises and cloud

The benefits of using multi-cloud

There are various reasons why companies and organizations adopt multi-cloud, but it is an effective means of increasing flexibility and efficiency, such as building systems that take advantage of the characteristics of each cloud service, diversifying risks, and reducing costs

Improved high availability and redundancy

A multi-cloud configuration improves the availability and redundancy of services and data by utilizing different cloud platforms and data centers, eliminating single points of failure and minimizing business interruptions for companies and organizations

In addition, by utilizing different cloud services and tools, you can increase the flexibility of your system operations, allowing you to plan operation methods according to specific uses and needs

Avoiding vendor lock-in

Each cloud service has its own areas of expertise and characteristics. For example, AWS excels in providing IaaS and PaaS, while Google Cloud excels in the fields of AI, big data, and machine learning. By creating a multi-cloud environment, you can take advantage of the characteristics of each cloud service and build an optimal system

In addition, by using multiple cloud services in combination rather than relying on a specific cloud or provider, it becomes easier to plan for future service changes and migrations, and the risk of vendor lock-in can be avoided

Risk diversification and improved security

By using multiple cloud services, you can diversify the risk of security threats and data leaks and build a defense strategy. By combining different security practices, you can create a more robust security environment

For example, if you rely on a single vendor for cloud services, you will be exposed to the risks associated with that vendor's failures and service outages.By using a multi-cloud, you can combine and use multiple cloud services, reducing your reliance on a single vendor and diversifying your risks

Improved cost efficiency

Cloud services generally operate on a pay-as-you-go basis, where you are charged only for the amount of use, but you may be able to optimize costs by using multiple cloud services in combination, taking into consideration the appropriate use of resources, and using only the functions and services you need

Disadvantages of using multi-cloud

As mentioned above, there are many benefits to structuring systems and applications in a multi-cloud manner, but at the same time, there are also disadvantages

It is advisable to consider and adopt multi-cloud deployment after taking into account the following disadvantages

Complexity of operational management

In a multi-cloud environment, each cloud service is different, so it is necessary to operate, manage, and integrate the services and resources that are distributed across them

Naturally, having separate accounts, management consoles, APIs, etc. can make establishing and troubleshooting management processes difficult

Technical Skills Demand

A wide range of technical skills is required for a company or organization to design, build, operate, maintain, and monitor a multi-cloud environment on its own

Understanding the specifications, operation, and best practices of each cloud service and making the optimal selection requires specialized knowledge. If a company or organization lacks the necessary knowledge, technology, or resources, selecting and implementing a multi-cloud solution can be difficult

Difficulty in estimating costs

Cloud service pricing models and resource types vary by cloud platform, so estimating costs can take time

Also, even if you calculate the costs of other cloud services by referring to the pricing model of a cloud service you are familiar with, you may end up with higher costs due to unexpected resources, so you need to be careful when estimating costs

Security and Compliance Concerns

Each cloud service has different security models and compliance requirements

Because security policy settings, access rights management, data encryption, SLAs, etc. differ, integrated monitoring and response to security events also becomes a challenge

summary

While multi-cloud offers benefits such as building systems that take advantage of the characteristics of cloud services, diversifying risks, and reducing costs, it can also have disadvantages such as increased complexity in operational management

When introducing and operating a multi-cloud environment, the key to success is to fully understand the advantages and disadvantages and consider the optimal configuration for your company's business and systems

*Beyond also supports the construction and operation of various clouds, including AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, through its "multi-cloud" approach. If you are interested, please feel free to contact us

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