What is Multi Cloud? Introduction of introduction points and use cases

Introducing the Era of Multi Cloud: Unlocking Flexibility and Efficiency

In the past, when implementing a new system internally, it was common to purchase a server and build the system on-premises. However, this approach was time-consuming and expensive, requiring customization to meet specific needs, thereby hindering flexible operations.

Thankfully, cloud services have emerged as a solution to these challenges. They offer a convenient alternative that eliminates the need for in-house server infrastructure and management, allowing for flexible resource scaling whenever necessary. Moreover, there has been a growing trend toward adopting a multi-cloud approach, which involves utilizing cloud services from multiple providers.

So, what exactly are the benefits of leveraging multiple cloud services? In this article, we will explore the concept of multi-cloud, its recent popularity, and provide examples of its practical applications.

What is Multi Cloud?

Multi Cloud refers to the practice of using multiple distinct cloud services. It is typically adopted when different operators and services serve different purposes within an organization.

It’s worth noting that multi-cloud is often confused with the term “hybrid cloud.” Hybrid cloud refers to a combination of on-premises, public cloud, and private cloud services from a single business operator.

Understanding the Relationship between On-Premises, Public Cloud, and Private Cloud:
There are two primary methods of building a system: on-premises and cloud-based. The cloud method involves building the system on a server provided by a cloud service provider. Within the cloud model, two common variations are the public cloud and the private cloud.

The public cloud leverages shared servers and storage on the internet. It offers a flexible pay-as-you-go model, allowing for seamless system expansion or contraction.

On the other hand, the private cloud is a dedicated cloud environment exclusive to a particular company. Private clouds provide high levels of customization for operating systems (OS) and software, enabling the implementation of tailored security policies. Private clouds can be built either as on-premises setups, utilizing the company’s own infrastructure, or as hosted solutions using a cloud service provider’s infrastructure.

Use Cases for Multi-Cloud

Let’s explore some practical examples of how multi-cloud can be applied:

1. Separate Clouds for Internal and Customer-Facing Services:
When internal systems and customer services require different operating systems or have varying infrastructure environments, such as distinct software versions, utilizing multiple cloud services becomes necessary.

2. Companies with Global Presence:
Businesses with offices in multiple countries often need to comply with different laws and regulations. To adhere to data storage requirements specific to each country, they employ different cloud services. For instance, a company may use a cloud service that stores data in the US for managing US-based services, while employing a separate cloud service that stores data in Japan for Japanese services.

3. Leveraging Specialized Functions of Cloud Services:
With the rise of technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain, there is an increasing demand for cloud services tailored to specific needs. Cloud providers like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP) offer specialized AI capabilities, such as image/speech/video recognition, translation, and chatbots. By leveraging multiple clouds, organizations can combine the strengths of different providers. For example, they can utilize one company’s cloud service for excellent image AI and another company’s cloud for exceptional chatbot functionalities.

4. Mitigating Risks through Redundancy:
Dependence on a single vendor poses risks, as any server failure can disrupt business operations and result in significant losses. Adopting a multi-cloud strategy reduces these risks by distributing resources across different cloud services. It enables businesses to build more robust systems with enhanced backup and recovery capabilities.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Multi-Cloud Deployment
Let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of deploying a multi-cloud approach and explore how to address them effectively:

Benefits of Multi Cloud:

1. Leveraging the Strengths of Multiple Cloud Services:
Multi-cloud enables organizations to select and utilize the unique advantages offered by different cloud services.

2. Avoiding Vendor Lock-In:
By avoiding reliance on a single vendor, businesses can procure services from various providers, preventing vendor lock-in.

3. Risk Mitigation:
Distributing resources across multiple cloud services reduces the risk of service disruptions caused by a single cloud provider’s failure.

4. Preventing Overreliance on a Single Cloud Service:
Using multiple cloud services prevents excessive dependency on a single provider and ensures diversified access.

Disadvantages of Multi Cloud:

1. Increased Operational Complexity:
Managing multiple cloud services can be complex, requiring additional effort and expertise.

2. Higher Costs:
Deploying a multi-cloud infrastructure involves multiple contracts and maintenance services, potentially leading to increased costs.

3. Varied Security Standards:
Different cloud services may have varying security standards, which can introduce security risks if not managed properly.

While operational complexity and security risks may deter organizations from adopting multi-cloud, it’s important to note that cloud providers offer solutions and services to support multi-cloud implementations. These tools can simplify management and enhance security, making multi-cloud more accessible and user-friendly.

Key Considerations for Multi Cloud Utilization

To effectively utilize multi-cloud deployments, it’s crucial to follow these key steps:

1. Identify Current System Issues:
Evaluate your existing system to identify pain points and areas that could benefit from multi-cloud adoption.

2. Assess the Need for Multi Cloud:
Determine whether a multi-cloud approach is genuinely required for your organization’s specific needs and objectives.

3. Select Cloud Services Based on Purpose:
Choose cloud services that align with your desired outcomes and serve the purpose of your organization effectively.

4. Develop an Operation Management Plan:
Design an operation management strategy that considers the complexities associated with utilizing multiple cloud services.

5. Plan Migration Effectively:
Ensure a smooth migration process by planning the transition to a multi-cloud environment carefully.

Operational costs should also be carefully evaluated. Cloud service providers like AWS and Azure generally operate on a pay-as-you-go model, where pricing varies based on server specifications and storage capacity. For simpler setups, costs typically range from 10,000 to 20,000 yen per month.

However, in the case of multi-cloud, costs depend on the extent of operation and maintenance services required for each cloud service, as well as any additional services provided by IT vendors. It’s essential to consider these factors and plan accordingly.

Conclusion:

In the era of Multi Cloud, organizations can leverage the strengths of multiple cloud services, avoid vendor lock-in, mitigate risks, and prevent overreliance on a single provider. While operational complexity and costs are considerations, cloud providers offer solutions to simplify management and enhance security. By carefully assessing system requirements and implementing multi-cloud, businesses can unlock flexibility, efficiency, and scalability, driving growth and success in the modern landscape.

Cloud services have become indispensable for modern enterprises, and the adoption of multi-cloud, which harnesses the power of multiple cloud services, is expected to continue growing. Organizations are drawn to multi-cloud due to the diverse range of services, improved security, and effective risk management it offers.

To unlock the full potential of your business, carefully assess your system requirements, and consider introducing multi-cloud to enhance flexibility, efficiency, and scalability. With a wide array of cloud services available, organizations can optimize their operations and drive business growth through strategic multi-cloud implementations.

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