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

This is Ohara from the technical sales department.

In recent years, the use of cloud services by companies and organizations has become standard, but rather than being limited to a specific cloud service, it is possible to configure various cloud services into a "multi-cloud" and organize the structure of systems and applications. There are many cases where this has been achieved.

Additionally, some companies operate in a "hybrid configuration," using cloud services such as AWS for the main infrastructure, but also using on-premises (physical servers) for some system infrastructure.

In this article, we will introduce ``multi-cloud configuration examples'' and ``advantages and disadvantages'' for companies and organizations

Multi-cloud configuration example

Multi-cloud refers to an infrastructure environment, concept, and configuration that uses a combination of multiple cloud services.

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

As examples of multi-cloud configurations, the following conditions and configurations can be considered, depending on the requirements of the systems and applications used by companies and organizations.

Functional configuration

This configuration uses a combination of different cloud services for each function. For example, use AWS for IaaS, Microsoft Azure for PaaS, Google Cloud for SaaS, etc., depending on the field of expertise of each cloud service.

● Example of functional configuration

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

Regional composition

This configuration uses a combination of different cloud services for each region. For example, you can use AWS for systems in Japan and Microsoft Azure or Google Cloud for systems overseas, depending on the requirements of the company or region using the cloud.

If you want to ensure data redundancy, you can create data redundancy by storing data in different clouds and by combining Amazon S3 and Google Cloud Storage to store data in different clouds.

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

Hybrid configuration

This is a configuration that uses a combination of on-premises systems and cloud services. There are cases where existing systems continue to operate on-premises and new systems are built in the cloud.

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

"Advantages" of using multi-cloud

There are various reasons for adopting multi-cloud, depending on the company or organization, but there are effective ways to increase flexibility and efficiency, such as system construction that takes advantage of the characteristics of each cloud service, risk distribution, and cost reduction. It has become a great tool.

Increased high availability and redundancy

By creating a multi-cloud configuration, you can improve the availability and redundancy of services and data by using different cloud platforms and data centers. By eliminating single points of failure, organizations can minimize business interruptions.

Additionally, by utilizing different cloud services and tools, flexibility in system operation is improved, allowing you to plan operational methods according to specific uses and needs.

Avoiding vendor lock-in

Each cloud service has its specialties and features. For example, AWS has strengths in providing IaaS and PaaS, and Google Cloud has strengths in the areas 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.

Additionally, by using multiple cloud services together without relying on a specific cloud or provider, you can easily plan for future service changes or migrations and avoid the risk of falling into vendor lock-in.

Diversify risk and improve security

By using multiple cloud services, you can spread the risk of security threats and data breaches and build a defense strategy. Combine different security practices to create a stronger security environment.

For example, when using cloud services in a manner that relies on a single vendor, there is a risk of failure or service outage of that vendor. By using multi-cloud, you can reduce dependence on a single vendor and spread risk by combining multiple cloud services.

Improved cost efficiency

Cloud services generally have a pay-as-you-go system where you pay only for the amount you use, but it is possible to use multiple cloud services together and use only the necessary functions and services as needed, taking into consideration the appropriate allocation of resources. You may be able to optimize your costs by doing so.

Disadvantages of using multi-cloud

As mentioned earlier, by configuring systems and applications in a multi-cloud configuration, you can enjoy many benefits, but at the same time there are also disadvantages.

It is recommended to consider and adopt multi-cloud after considering the following disadvantages.

Complexity of operations management

In a multi-cloud environment, each cloud service is different, so it is necessary to operationally manage and integrate distributed services and resources.

Of course, separate accounts, management consoles/APIs, etc. can make establishing and troubleshooting management processes difficult.

Technical skills required

A wide range of technical skills is required for companies and organizations to design, build, operate, maintain, and monitor multicloud environments on their own.

Expert knowledge is required to understand the specifications, operations, and best practices of each cloud service and make the optimal choice. If a company or organization lacks knowledge, technology, or resources, it may be difficult to select and implement multicloud.

Difficulty 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 cost of other cloud services by referring to the pricing model of the cloud service that you are familiar with, you may end up increasing costs due to unexpected resources, so be careful when estimating costs. is required.

Security and compliance concerns

Each cloud service has different security models and compliance requirements.

Since security policy settings, access privilege management, data encryption, SLA, etc. are different, integrated monitoring and response to security events is also an issue.

summary

While multi-cloud offers benefits such as system construction that takes advantage of the characteristics of cloud services, risk diversification, and cost reduction, it may also have disadvantages such as complicating operational management.

When introducing and operating a multi-cloud, the key to success is to fully understand these advantages and disadvantages and consider the optimal configuration for your business and system.

*Beyond supports "multi-cloud" construction and operation of various clouds such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure. If you are interested, please feel free to contact us.

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