Managed private cloud
Managed Private Cloud refers to a principle in software architecture where a single instance of the software runs on a server, serving a single client organization (tenant), and managed by a third-party. The third-party provider is responsible for providing the hardware for the server, and also for preliminary maintenance. This is in contrast to multitenancy where multiple client organizations share a single server, or an on-premises deployment where the client organization hosts their own software instance.
Managed Private Clouds also fall under the larger umbrella of cloud computing.
Adoption
The need for private clouds arose due to enterprises requiring a dedicated service and infrastructure for their cloud computing needs, such as for business critical operations, improved security and better control over their resources. Managed private cloud adoption is a popular choice among organizations, and has on the rise [1] due to enterprises requiring a dedicated cloud environment, and preferring to avoid having to deal with management, maintenance, or future upgradation costs for the associated infrastructure and services. Such operational costs are unavoidable in on-premises private cloud data centers.
Advantages and Challenges of Managed Private Cloud
A managed private cloud cuts down on upkeep costs by outsourcing infrastructure management and maintenance to the managed cloud provider. It is easier to integrate an organization's existing software, services, and applications into a dedicated cloud hosting infrastructure which can be customized to the client's needs, instead of a public cloud platform, whose hardware or infrastructure/software platform cannot be individualized to each client.
Customers who choose a managed private cloud deployment usually choose them because of their desire for an efficient cloud deployment, but also have the need for service customization or integration only available in a single-tenant environment.
This chart shows key benefits [2] of the different types of deployments, and shows the overlap between these cloud solutions.
| Feature | Multi-tenant | On-Premises | Managed Private Cloud |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subscription Purchase | X | X | |
| No Infrastructure Purchase | X | X | |
| No System Admin | X | X | |
| Rapid Deployment | X | X | |
| Integration Capability | X | X | |
| Perpetual Software Licensing | X | X | |
| Upgrades on Customer Schedule | X | X |
This chart shows key drawbacks.
| Feature | Multi-tenant | On-Premises | Managed Private Cloud |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data Prone to Remote 3rd Party Access | X | X | |
| Hardware Not Auditable | X | X |
Since deployments are done in a single-tenant environment, it is usually cost-prohibitive for small and medium-sized businesses. While server upkeep and maintenance is handled by the service provider, including network management and security, the client is charged for all such services. It is up to the potential client to determine if a managed private cloud solution aligns with their business objectives and budget. While the service-provider maintains the upkeep of servers, network, and platform infrastructure, sensitive data is typically not stored on managed private clouds as it may leave business-critical information prone to breaches via third-party attacks on the cloud service provider.
Common Customizations [3] and integrations include:
Deployment Strategies and Service Providers
Software companies have taken a variety of strategies in the Managed Private Cloud realm. Some software organisations have provided managed private cloud options internally, such as Microsoft. Companies that offer an on-premises deployment option, by definition enable third-party companies to market Managed Private Cloud solutions. A few managed private cloud service providers are:
- Adobe Connect: Adobe Connect may be purchased for on-premises deployment, multi-tenant hosted deployment, managed private cloud as ACMS,[4] or managed by third-party managed private cloud provider ConnectSolutions.[5]
- Rackspace
- Indiqus
- CenturyLink
- Microsoft licenses for Lync, SharePoint and Exchange may be purchased for on-premises deployment, a multi-tenant hosted deployment via Office 365,[6] or managed by third-party cloud hosting for from Azaleos,[7] ConnectSolutions[8] and others.
Others
Popular webconferencing products like Cisco WebEx, Citrix Go-to-Meeting and Skype are available via multitenancy, and not available in a managed private cloud environment.
References
- "Cloud Computing Trends: 2016 State of the Cloud Survey". www.rightscale.com. Retrieved 2019-03-09.
- Londgren, Michael; Ryce, Peter (2011-09-15). "The Future of Web Conferencing: Extensibility". Adobe Connect Blog. Adobe Systems.
- Private Cloud - What are the main benefits ? Archived 2012-05-05 at the Wayback Machine. GetApp.com.
- Londgren, Michael; Nelson, Mitch (2011-06-28). "Introducing Adobe Connect Managed Services". Adobe Connect Blog. Adobe Systems.
- Mendelson, Edward (2013-01-29). "Microsoft Office 365 Home Premium". PC Magazine.
- Office Online Services - Hosted in the Cloud - Microsoft Office 365
- Mukhar, Nicholas (2012-03-29). "Private Cloud Cheaper than Public Cloud for Microsoft Apps". MSPmentor.
- "ConnectSolutions Launches Managed Private Cloud for Microsoft Lync for Enterprise and Government". PR Newswire (Press release). ConnectSolutions. 2011-11-03.