Public Cloud
Public Cloud is a cloud computing model in which computing resources (servers, storage, applications) are provided by a service provider on a rental basis and shared among multiple clients. Access to resources is delivered over the Internet, and the infrastructure is fully owned and managed by the cloud provider.
Examples of public clouds include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, and IBM Cloud.
How It Works
- The cloud provider deploys large-scale infrastructure in data centers.
- Resources are virtualized and allocated among clients.
- Users access computing power, storage, and services via the Internet.
- Billing is based on the pay-as-you-go model (payment only for actual resource usage).
Applications
Public clouds are suitable for:
- fast deployment of web applications and startups;
- scalable SaaS platforms;
- storage of large volumes of data;
- machine learning and analytics;
- testing and development environments.
Advantages
- Flexibility and scalability – resources can be scaled up or down within minutes.
- Cost efficiency – no need to invest in own hardware.
- Accessibility – services can be used from anywhere in the world.
- Wide range of services – from virtual machines to fully managed platforms and AI tools.
- Fast deployment – infrastructure can be launched in just minutes.
Limitations
- Less control – infrastructure is fully owned by the provider.
- Vendor lock-in – switching providers can be complex.
- Security and compliance – data is stored outside the organization, which may be critical for banks and government agencies.
Example
A startup launches its web application on AWS. By using a public cloud, the team avoids the costs of purchasing servers and can quickly scale resources depending on workload, paying only for actual consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
In a public cloud, resources are shared among multiple clients, while in a private cloud they are fully dedicated to one company. Public clouds are cheaper and easier to use but provide less control.
Major providers use advanced security measures and are certified to international standards. However, security configuration is partly the responsibility of the user.
Yes, many companies store part of their data and applications there. However, for mission-critical systems, a hybrid approach (combining private and public clouds) is often used.
Based on the pay-as-you-go model – customers pay only for the computing power, storage, or network traffic they actually consume.
Primarily startups, small and medium-sized businesses, and companies that value fast deployment and flexibility without large capital investments.
