What this book covers
Chapter 1, Fundamentals of Cloud Architecture, discusses the history, present state, and future of cloud computing architecture. This chapter delves into the origins of cloud computing, tracing its roots from time-sharing to the commercialization of services.
We will then explore the pervasive influence of cloud computing today, discussing its models, benefits, challenges, and real-world implementations. Understanding cloud architecture becomes the focal point as we unravel the components, deployment models, and key concepts such as virtualization and load balancing. Finally, we will turn our attention to the future, exploring emerging trends such as edge computing, serverless computing, and quantum computing, while contemplating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Chapter 2, Components of a Cloud Infrastructure, begins by exploring the foundation of a cloud infrastructure, which includes physical data centers, networking, and storage systems. It discusses the importance of server virtualization and hypervisors in enabling the efficient utilization of computing resources. The chapter then delves into the concept of virtual networks and their role in facilitating communication between different components of the cloud infrastructure. It also explores storage technologies such as block, file, and object storage. Additionally, the chapter discusses the importance of load balancers, firewalls, and security mechanisms in ensuring the integrity and protection of the cloud infrastructure.
Chapter 3, Compute, provides a comprehensive exploration of the essential components and concepts related to compute and storage in cloud computing. The chapter delves into the various compute options available in cloud computing. It covers the concept of Virtual Machines (VMs), which allow users to create and run multiple instances of operating systems on a single physical server. The advantages of VMs, such as resource isolation and scalability, are discussed in detail. Additionally, this chapter explores the concept of serverless computing, where users can run their applications without needing to manage the underlying infrastructure.
Chapter 4, Storage, provides a comprehensive exploration of the essential components and concepts related to storage in cloud services. This chapter introduces you to the fundamental role of storage solutions in cloud computing. It covers a range of cloud storage types, including object storage, file storage, block storage, and hybrid storage, discussing their unique characteristics and use cases. This chapter also discusses essential considerations for selecting and managing cloud storage, such as security measures, performance factors, data transfer and migration strategies, data durability, availability, and scalability.
Chapter 5, Networking, presents a comprehensive exploration of networking’s vital role in cloud environments. The introduction lays the groundwork by explaining the significance of networking in facilitating seamless communication and data transfer among cloud resources. This chapter covers various networking types, including Virtual Private Cloud (VPC), subnetting, load balancing, Content Delivery Networks (CDNs), and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), providing insights into their functionalities and benefits.
Chapter 6, Security and Compliance 1 – Cloud Perspective, delves into the best practices for cloud security, offering you a comprehensive toolkit to strengthen their defenses. Encryption, a fundamental pillar of data protection, will be explored in depth, and we will examine its role in safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access. Additionally, you will discover the significance of identity and access management (IAM), secure API usage, network security, and secure coding practices for cloud-native applications.
Chapter 7, Security and Compliance 2 – Cloud Perspective, is the second part of the previous chapter. In this chapter, you will explore critical aspects of security in cloud computing, gaining insights into compliance and legal considerations, cloud security best practices, incident response, cloud forensics, managing cloud security at scale, and the evolving threat landscape.
Chapter 8, Database Services – Part 1, is dedicated to exploring the various database offerings available in the cloud. You will learn about managed database services provided by major cloud providers, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). This chapter will delve into different types of databases, including relational databases, NoSQL databases, and data warehousing services.
Chapter 9, Database Services – Part 2, is dedicated to exploring the various database offerings available in the cloud. You will learn about managed database services provided by major cloud providers, such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, and GCP. The chapter will delve into different types of databases, including relational databases, NoSQL databases, and data warehousing services.
Chapter 10, Monitoring and Management, delves into the critical aspects of overseeing and maintaining database systems in the cloud. This chapter provides a comprehensive understanding of the tools, practices, and techniques required to monitor databases in real time, track resource utilization, and respond to potential issues promptly.
Chapter 11, Backup and Restore Mechanisms, serves as a practical guide, providing a step-by-step walk-through of essential procedures for data backup and restoration within cloud environments. We’ll unravel the complexities, providing you with the skills to navigate and implement these critical operations seamlessly.
Chapter 12, Backup and Restore Procedures, delves into the critical aspects of data protection and recovery in cloud computing. In this chapter, you can expect a thorough exploration of various backup and restoration strategies, techniques, and best practices tailored to the cloud environment.
