When transitioning from a local physical network to a cloud-based network, several important cloud networking concepts and considerations need to be understood. One of the primary differences between a physical network and a cloud network is the reliance on the Internet or wide-area networks (WANs) for data transmission. In a physical network, devices and servers are typically connected directly to each other, making data transfer faster and more secure. However, data must be sent across the Internet in a cloud network, introducing additional concerns such as latency and security risks.
A key concept in cloud networking is virtualization. In a physical network, servers, storage, and networking equipment are dedicated to specific tasks. Cloud networking relies on virtualized resources, meaning that computing power, storage, and even networking components are shared across multiple users. This approach allows for greater flexibility and scalability, but it also requires careful management of resources to avoid bottlenecks or downtime.
Another consideration is security. While physical networks are often easier to secure due to their isolation, cloud networks face additional challenges. Data must be encrypted to protect it while it is being transmitted over the Internet, and access controls must be put in place to ensure that only authorized users can access sensitive information. Additionally, compliance with regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA, may be necessary, depending on the industry.
Lastly, transitioning to a cloud network involves rethinking network architecture. Traditional physical networks are typically designed for a static environment, but cloud networks must be designed for flexibility and scalability. This means choosing the right cloud service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS) and optimizing configurations to handle changing workloads without losing performance or security.
References
IBM. (2024, August 12). What is virtualization? https://www.ibm.com/topics/virtualization
AWS, A. (2024). What is cloud networking? - cloud networking explained - AWS. What is Cloud Networking? https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/cloud-networking/
Lanfear, T. (2024). Secure networks with Zero trust. Microsoft Learn. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/security/zero-trust/deploy/networks
BSIT400 - Week 5 Posting - Cloud networking concepts and considerations
