A Brief View Of The Different Layers That Define Cloud Architecture

Virtualization and dynamic provisioning of resources are the principles on which cloud computing works. In terms of architecture, the cloud hosting can be sliced into four different layers.

Which are the different layers that define cloud architecture?

These layers are infrastructure, platform, software, and an added layer of BPO (Business Process Outsourcing). The infrastructure layer takes care of the hardware and the network. It introduces world-class scalability and the technology of virtualization into cloud computing. For this, an organization needs to build large data centers. But with the help of IaaS, the hardware is virtualized and thus increases the capacity to support workloads.

Such cloud architecture layers allow the IaaS vendor to use the computing resources to its 100% efficiency. Then another layer i.e. platform provides all the resources to build applications. When combined with IaaS it helps in developing, testing, running, and hosting applications.

The software is the third layer wherein the user finds the consumption of the offering provided by the cloud service provider. At last, BPO is one of the most unique out of all the layers of cloud computing architecture as unlike other layers it is concerned with outsourcing the services.

The Physical Layer:

This layer comprises of physical servers, network and other aspects that can be physically managed and controlled.

The Infrastructure Layer:

This includes storage facilities, virtualized servers, and networking. Infrastructure as a Service or IaaS points to delivery of services in hosted format. They include hardware, network and servers, delivered to end users. Consumers can enjoy access to scalable storage and compute power as and when needed.

Platform Layer:

This layer includes services such as OS and Apps. It serves as a platform for development and deployment. The Platform layer provides the right platform for development and deployment of applications vital for the cloud to run smoothly.

Application Layer:

The Application Layer is the one that end users interact with in a direct manner. It mainly comprises of software systems delivered as service. Examples are Gmail and Dropbox. SaaS or Software as a Service ensures delivery of software in hosted form which can be accessed by users through the internet. Configurability and scalability are the two key features of this layer. Customers can easily customize their software system using Meta data.

These layers allow users to use cloud computing services optimally and achieve the kind of results they are looking for from the system.

Understanding the cloud system is equally important

The cloud architecture is composed of several components that combine together to form different layers of cloud architecture. Here are some of the important components that will make your understanding of the cloud architecture more clear.

Cloud Subscriber- They are the actual users of SaaS, PaaS, IaaS models.

Brokers- Brokers are the front end or as an intermediary between the cloud provider and the user who represents their interests in a standardized form.

Service Conceptualizer- Service conceptualizers are the ones who develop the services for users or brokers at a fee.

Resources Allocator- They act as a link between users and cloud service providers.

Cloud Provider- The pivotal role amongst all in the cloud ecosystem is the cloud provider. E.g. are Microsoft, Google, etc.

Service Request Controller- Service request controller is the one that allocates resources on a priority basis.

Pricer- After all the payment plans and requests are analyzed then pricer does all the accounts work.

VM Monitor- The VM Monitor looks after all the virtual machines.

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