Cloud computing is widely adopted by organizations of all sizes to store data in the cloud and access it from anywhere, at any time, using an internet connection.
The architecture of cloud computing combines Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) and Event-Driven Architecture (EDA), enabling flexible and scalable service delivery.
Main Components of Cloud Computing Architecture
Cloud computing architecture is primarily divided into two key components:
- Front End
- Back End
These components are connected via a network—typically the internet—that facilitates communication between clients and cloud service providers.
1. Front End
The front end is the interface used by the client. It includes all client-side components necessary to access cloud services, such as:
- Web browsers (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer)
- Thin and thick clients
- Mobile devices and tablets
These tools allow users to interact with the cloud environment through graphical interfaces and applications.
2. Back End
The back end is managed by the cloud service provider and is responsible for delivering cloud services. It includes:
- Data storage systems
- Virtual machines
- Servers and networks
- Deployment models
- Security mechanisms
- Traffic and resource management systems
This is where the core infrastructure and computing power reside, supporting the front-end interfaces.
Key Components of Cloud Computing Architecture
Below are the major components that form the cloud computing architecture:
1. Client Infrastructure
This is part of the front end and provides the Graphical User Interface (GUI) for clients to interact with the cloud platform.
2. Application
Refers to the software or platform that clients want to access or run via the cloud.
3. Services
Cloud computing delivers services based on user requirements. These are generally categorized into three types:
- Software as a Service (SaaS)
Provides access to software applications via web browsers without needing installation.
Examples: Google Apps, Salesforce, Dropbox, Slack, HubSpot, Cisco WebEx. - Platform as a Service (PaaS)
Offers a platform for developing, testing, and deploying applications.
Examples: Microsoft Azure, Force.com, Magento Commerce Cloud, OpenShift. - Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
Supplies virtualized computing resources over the internet.
Examples: Amazon Web Services (EC2), Google Compute Engine, Cisco Metapod.
4. Runtime Cloud
This component provides the runtime environment required for virtual machines to execute applications.
5. Storage
Storage is critical in cloud computing. It offers large-scale data storage capacity for storing, retrieving, and managing information on demand.
6. Infrastructure
Includes all the hardware and software components—such as servers, network equipment, storage systems, and virtualization software—needed to support cloud services.
7. Management
Responsible for managing cloud resources and services. This includes overseeing applications, runtime environments, storage, infrastructure, and security.
8. Security
Security is built into the back-end architecture and ensures data protection, access control, and secure transmission across the cloud environment.
9. Internet
The internet acts as the bridge between the front end and back end, enabling seamless communication and data exchange.
This structured architecture allows cloud computing to deliver flexible, scalable, and efficient IT resources, making it an essential technology in today’s digital landscape.