Overview
This lecture introduces the basics of cloud computing, distinguishes between public and private clouds, explains the reasons behind the popularity of AWS and public clouds, and provides guidance on creating an AWS account for upcoming hands-on learning.
Introduction to Cloud Computing
- Cloud computing allows users to access computing resources over the internet without knowing their physical location.
- Traditionally, organizations maintained their own data centers with dedicated physical servers.
- Maintaining data centers is complex, expensive, and requires constant management.
Virtualization and Cloud Concepts
- Virtualization lets multiple virtual servers run on a single physical server, optimizing resource use.
- A virtual server (or virtual machine) is a software-based emulation of a physical server, running on shared hardware.
- Private cloud refers to cloud infrastructure managed within a single organization.
- Public cloud is managed by third-party providers (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) and is accessible to anyone with an account.
Differences: Public Cloud vs. Private Cloud
- Private cloud: owned and operated by a single organization; restricted access.
- Public cloud: owned by providers like AWS; open access for any user or business with an account.
- Public clouds reduce setup and maintenance burdens for startups and mid-sized businesses.
Why Public Cloud is Popular
- Public cloud minimizes the need for infrastructure maintenance and specialized staff.
- Offers pay-as-you-go pricing, making it cost-efficient and scalable.
- Public cloud platforms provide a growing suite of services, continually expanding to match user needs.
AWS Popularity and Market Position
- AWS is the first major cloud provider and pioneered the cloud services market.
- AWS has the largest market share, making AWS skills highly relevant for job seekers.
- Core cloud concepts are similar across providers, but AWS is often the recommended starting point.
Cloud Repatriation (Moving Back On-Premises)
- Some companies move from public to private cloud due to security or cost concerns.
- This trend (cloud repatriation) is rare—less than 2% of organizations.
- Most businesses continue to adopt public cloud due to ease of setup and maintenance.
Creating an AWS Account
- Visit AWS and select "Create new AWS account."
- Provide a unique email address, choose a password, and fill in personal details.
- Choose personal use if learning or experimenting.
- Enter valid billing information (credit/debit card required for verification).
- Complete remaining simple steps to activate your AWS account.
- AWS will do a small verification charge, which is later refunded.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Cloud Computing — Delivery of computing resources via the internet.
- Data Center — Facility housing multiple physical servers and equipment.
- Virtualization — Running multiple virtual servers on a single physical server.
- Private Cloud — Cloud infrastructure exclusive to one organization.
- Public Cloud — Cloud resources provided and managed by external vendors for public use.
- Cloud Repatriation — Moving workloads from public cloud back to private/on-premises infrastructure.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Create your own AWS account for hands-on practice in upcoming lessons.
- Prepare credit or debit card details for AWS account verification.
- Continue with Day 2 of the AWS Zero to Hero series for further learning.