What Is Hybrid Cloud Architecture and How Can We Use It?

Hybrid cloud solutions combine public and private environments to support applications.

When you need to reduce costs, downtime, and security risk, hybrid cloud computing can be the perfect solution. In theory, you'll achieve all three goals with little hassle. 

But what hybrid cloud architecture approach should you take?

Flexibility is a key benefit of hybrid clouds. Companies can configure them in almost any manner, depending on their budgets and goals. But some information architects feel stumped when asked to design the tools their companies need.

Let's dig into the definitions, benefits, cost, and considerations of hybrid clouds. And we’ll share a few diagrams you can keep in mind as you work on a system for your company.

Cloud Computing in Simple Terms 

All computer systems store and distribute data. Years ago, all components of that system sat within a room or two, often within the company's headquarters. Now, some of those servers may sit off site. When they do, they're considered part of a cloud. 

The cloud term itself is a bit of a joke, as people started using it to describe how little location matters. Where are our servers? They're located somewhere out there within a cloud of stuff.

Consumers often believe that their information is physically located in the clouds above their heads. In reality, their data is likely housed in a physical server in a room somewhere. But since it's not within company headquarters, it's considered part of the cloud. 

Three main types of cloud computing exist.

• Infrastructure as a service (IaaS): Computers, networking features, and storage exist within the cloud. This form of cloud computing is very flexible, as it can expand or contract based on need.
• Platform as a service (PaaS): Applications operate within the cloud, but the underlying infrastructure remains well within your control.
• Software as a service (SaaS): An entire product, including the software and infrastructure, operates within the cloud. 

Costs vary by cloud-computing type, but determining the final price tag isn't always easy. To develop a