The public cloud is one of the cloud computing delivery models: It provides IT infrastructures and services over the Internet. This offers users computing power, storage space, infrastructure, and applications without the need for their own investments in hardware. Companies can use these services flexibly, avoiding high initial costs.
Characteristics of the Public Cloud
Public clouds offer services such as SaaS (Software as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a Service), and IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service). These services are accessible to many users via the Internet. The public cloud is also characterized by flexibility: customers can adjust services as needed, as the cloud can quickly adapt to changing requirements and offers high scalability.
The pricing structure is also interesting for customers. They only pay for services actually used, as billing models are based on consumption or are subscription- or advertising-financed. Another feature of this cloud computing delivery model is self-service access: users can directly book or customize services. Online payments and flexible contract terms are standard. Despite shared use, customers’ data and resources are securely separated from each other. Providers use virtualization to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
Advantages of the Public Cloud
- Cost efficiency:
Companies avoid high investment costs as the infrastructure is provided by the provider. Only used resources are billed. - Easy implementation:
The installation of services is quick and uncomplicated. Users benefit from high availability and professional management by the provider. - Quick adjustments:
Changes can be made without lengthy hardware procurement. Companies respond flexibly to short-term fluctuations in demand. - Professional security concepts:
Providers ensure high security standards and availability through modern security measures and professional monitoring.
Distinction from Private Cloud
The delivery model differs from the private cloud in that it is accessible to the general public. A private cloud is exclusively available to one organization and is operated either internally or by the service provider only for that organization.
Legal data protection regulations or security concerns may limit the use of the public cloud. In such cases, the use of a private or hybrid cloud is sensible: The latter offers a combination of both models and allows access to both public and private cloud services.
Overall, the public cloud offers a cost-effective and flexible way to use IT resources while being protected by professional security measures.
