Cloud

From Server Room to Cloud Heaven: A Quick Guide to Data Center Migration

Imagine you’re Captain Kirk, boldly venturing into the uncharted territory of a data center migration. The stakes are high, the risks real, and the unknown vast. Fear not, intrepid explorer! This ultimate guide equips you with the knowledge and tools to chart a course for success, avoiding the perilous asteroid fields of downtime and data loss.

But why embark on this data center odyssey in the first place? The reasons are numerous:

  • Embracing the cloud: Many organizations are migrating to the cloud for its scalability, agility, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Modernizing infrastructure: Aging hardware can be inefficient and pose security risks.
  • Consolidating resources: Reducing physical footprint lowers costs and simplifies management.

Beyond the Hype: Statistics & Untold Stories

While migration promises benefits, the journey is not without its challenges. Studies show:

  • 60% of migrations experience some form of downtime (Uptime Institute).
  • 40% of organizations underestimate the complexity of migration (RightScale).

But statistics only tell part of the story. Ask any IT veteran, and they’ll regale you with tales of heroic efforts to migrate terabytes of data overnight, navigating unforeseen roadblocks and late-night troubleshooting sessions fueled by caffeine and sheer determination.

The Roadmap to Success: Tips Most Missed

This guide goes beyond the standard migration checklist. We delve into the often-overlooked aspects:

  • Change management: Prepare your team and stakeholders for the transition, addressing concerns and fostering buy-in.
  • Data governance: Develop a robust data classification and security strategy to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.
  • Vendor selection: Choose partners with proven expertise in your specific needs and industry.
  • Post-migration optimization: Don’t stop after the lights come back on; continuously monitor and optimize performance.

Remember, migration is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Your journey will be unique, shaped by your specific infrastructure, goals, and challenges.

Lessons from the Trenches

Here’s a real-world example: A healthcare company faced a looming deadline to migrate from an on-premises data center to a cloud-based platform. The stakes were high – patient data security was paramount. They meticulously planned, conducted thorough testing, and involved stakeholders at every step. The result? A seamless migration with minimal downtime and increased security.

Your Next Chapter: Embarking on Your Migration Odyssey

This guide is your launchpad, but the ultimate adventure awaits. Remember:

  • Plan meticulously: Chart your course, anticipate risks, and have a contingency plan.
  • Assemble your crew: Gather a team of skilled professionals and trusted partners.
  • Communicate effectively: Keep everyone informed and engaged throughout the journey.
  • Celebrate the victory: Recognize the hard work and dedication of your team upon reaching your destination.

With knowledge, preparation, and a spirit of collaboration, you can navigate your data center migration with confidence and write your own success story. Now, go forth, captain, and boldly chart your course!

Will Edge Computing Replace Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing has been a huge boon for businesses in recent years, offering an economical and easy way to store and access data remotely. However, as edge computing becomes more popular, is cloud computing doomed? In this article, we explore the pros and cons of edge computing and see if it might eventually replace cloud computing as the de facto way to store and access data.

What is Edge Computing?

Edge computing is a subset of cloud computing that focuses on leveraging the strengths of the network and devices at the edge of the network. This can include things like big data and advanced analytics, which can’t be handled well in traditional centralized clouds. Edge computing can help reduce latency and improve performance for these types of applications.

How does Edge Computing work?

Edge computing is a type of computing that takes place on the ‘edges’ of networks, such as the Internet of Things and mobile networks. This means that edge computing can be used to power applications and systems that need quick response times, low latency, and large scale. Edge computing can also be used to offload processing from centralized data stores, which can free up resources for more important tasks.

The Benefits of Edge Computing

Edge computing is a sub-field of cloud computing that focuses on developing and deploying systems and applications on the “edge” of the network, away from the central servers. The benefits of edge computing include:

1. Reduced Latency: Applications and data located closer to users can be processed more quickly, leading to improved user experiences.

2. Reduced Costs: By offloading frequently performed tasks to the edge, businesses can reduce their infrastructure costs.

3. Increased Security: By protecting data and applications at the edge, businesses can ensure that they are protected from cyberattacks.

Disadvantages of Edge Computing

The disadvantages of edge computing include that it is not always secure or reliable. It can be expensive to set up and maintain. Edge computing may not be appropriate for certain types of data.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing is a model for enabling on-demand access to a shared pool of resources that can be used by users with a web browser. This model contrasts with the traditional client-server model in which a single entity, typically a business or organization, owns and manages the resources and provides access to them through a centralized location.

Cloud computing has become an increasingly popular choice for businesses because it offers several advantages over traditional models. First, cloud computing allows businesses to scale up or down as needed without costing excessive amounts of money. Second, it allows companies to use technology that they already possess to save money on infrastructure costs. Finally, it enables companies to access new technologies and applications quickly and without having to invest in expensive development efforts.

How does Cloud Computing work?

Cloud computing is a model for delivering services over the internet. The users access the services through a remote server instead of a local computer. The advantage of this model is that it allows users to use their own devices, which makes it easier to work from any location. Cloud computing lets companies save money by using remote servers instead of buying and maintaining their equipment.

The Benefits of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing has been around for a while now, and for good reason. It’s simple to set up and use, it’s efficient, and it can offer a lot of value for your organization. But some things cloud computing doesn’t do well. For example, it can be difficult to scale up or down depending on demand, and you can’t always rely on the security of the data.

Now, some companies are looking to replace cloud computing with something called edge computing. Edge computing is a way of doing things in which the processing takes place closer to the users than it does in the cloud. This means that you can have more control over how your data is handled and you can also improve security because the data is located closer to where it needs to be.

Disadvantages of cloud computing

One of the main disadvantages of cloud computing is that it is not always reliable. If the data stored in the cloud is damaged or lost, it can be difficult to retrieve it. 

Cloud computing has many advantages, but it also has some disadvantages. Here are four of the most common ones:

1. Security Risks: Cloud computing puts your data and applications in the hands of a third party. This makes them more vulnerable to hacker attacks.

2. Limited Storage and Processing Power: The cloud is good for quickly accessing large amounts of data, but you may not have enough disk space or processing power to run your applications on it.

3. High Costs: Cloud computing can be expensive, especially if you need to use a lot of bandwidth and storage capacity.

4. Lack of Control: You may not be able to control how your data is used or who has access to it.

The Rise of Edge Computing and the Future of Cloud Computing

Edge computing is a new type of computing that is built around the idea of using servers and devices that are located close to the users. This allows for faster and more efficient execution of tasks, as well as reduced costs and improved security. Edge computing is already being used by several companies and is predicted to become the dominant type of computing in the next decade.

While cloud computing remains the most popular form of computing, edge computing has the potential to replace it. Edge computing is faster, more secure, and cheaper than traditional computing models, making it a great choice for applications that need quick response times or high levels of security. Additionally, edge computing can be used to power mobile apps and devices, which makes it a valuable tool for businesses.

Edge computing is a growing trend that is changing the way we use technology. It is a type of computing that happens on the edge of networks, devices, and systems. This allows for a more agile and responsive system because it can access data and resources faster than traditional systems. Edge computing can also be used to power smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and other innovative applications.

The future of cloud computing will likely be dominated by edge computing. This is because edge systems are more nimble and can handle more complex tasks. They can also scale quickly and access more resources than traditional systems. This means that businesses will be able to save money by using edge systems instead of cloud systems. In addition, edge systems are safer because they are not connected to the internet all the time. This means they are less vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Overall, edge computing is a powerful technology that has the potential to revolutionize how we use computers. While it may initially be used in niche areas, over time it could become the dominant computing model.

Conclusion

It is no secret that cloud computing has become one of the most popular and widely adopted technologies in the world. From small businesses to large enterprises, everyone seems to be relying on the cloud for their computing needs. As edge computing becomes more popular, the cloud will likely become less important. There are many reasons for this, but one of the most significant is that edge computing can be tailored to meet the specific needs of a particular organization. As edge computing continues to grow in popularity, we can expect the role of the cloud to diminish overall.

THE TOP 10 CLOUD STORAGE SERVICES AVAILABLE ONLINE

The cloud has revolutionized how we store our data, making it easy to access from anywhere. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 cloud storage services available online, and compare and contrast them so that you can make the best decision for your needs.

What is Cloud Storage?

Cloud storage is a service that allows you to access your files and data from anywhere, using any device. You can access your files using a web browser, an app on your phone, or even through the cloud storage interface on your computer. Some services also offer backup features so you can protect your files in case of accidental loss or corruption.

Dropbox

Dropbox is the most popular online storage service. It has a user-friendly interface and a large number of users.

If you’re looking for a fast and easy way to store your files online, Dropbox is the best option. It offers a free account that allows you to upload up to 2GB of data per month. If that’s not enough space for you, Dropbox also offers paid plans that give you more storage space.

Another great feature of Dropbox is its ability to synchronize your files across all your devices. This means that you can access your files wherever you are, without having to worry about losing any of your data.

Google Drive

Google Drive is one of the most popular cloud storage services available online. It has a lot of features that make it a great choice for users.

One of the most important features of Google Drive is its user interface. The user interface is easy to use and it has a lot of features that make it a great choice for users. For example, Google Drive can be used to view and edit documents, photos, and music files. It also has a feature called “Drive Files.” This feature allows users to share files with other Google Drive users without having to email or share them through social media.

iCloud

iCloud is one of the most popular cloud storage services available online. It is owned and operated by Apple, and has been featured in many of its products over the years.

One of the main advantages of using iCloud is that it is integrated into many different Apple products. This means that you can access your files from any device that you have access to an internet connection on.

iCloud also has a very good security system. Your files are encrypted before they are stored on the servers, and Apple has a history of being one of the most reliable cloud storage providers.

OneDrive

OneDrive is one of the most popular cloud storage services available online. It is free to use and has a user-friendly interface. OneDrive allows users to store their files in the cloud, so they can access them from any device.

OneDrive also has a feature called sync. This allows users to automatically sync their files between different devices. This means that they can access their files anywhere, no matter which device they are using.

Amazon Drive

Amazon Drive is one of the most popular cloud storage services available online. It offers a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features.

One of the main reasons Amazon Drive is so popular is its unlimited storage capacity. Users can store any type of file in Amazon Drive, including photos, documents, and music. In addition, Amazon Drive has a quick search feature that makes it easy to find files.

Another important feature of Amazon Drive is its ability to sync between devices. This means users can access their files from any device they have access to the internet on. This includes computers, tablets, and smartphones.

Finally, Amazon Drive offers low fees compared to other cloud storage services. This makes it a great option for users who want to store large amounts of data.

Microsoft OneDrive

One of the most popular cloud storage services available online is Microsoft OneDrive. This service offers users a variety of features, including the ability to access their files from any device.

One of the best features of OneDrive is its integration with other devices. For example, you can access your files on your computer and then share them with other devices, such as your phone and tablet. This makes it easy to stay organized no matter where you are.

OneDrive also has a great search feature that lets you find what you’re looking for quickly. You can also share files with others quickly and easily. Overall, OneDrive is a great choice for those looking for a reliable cloud storage service.

Box

The Box is one of the most popular online cloud storage services available. It has a user-friendly interface and is simple to use.

One of the reasons Box is so popular is that it offers a wide range of storage options. You can store your files in the cloud, on your computer, or on mobile devices.

Box also has a great security system. Your files are encrypted before they are stored in the cloud, and you can access them from anywhere in the world.

Another great feature of Box is its customer support system. If you have any problems using the service, you can contact customer support for help. They are always happy to help out!

SpiderOak

One of the most important features of SpiderOak is its unlimited storage space. This means that you can store as much data as you want in the cloud service. Another great feature of SpiderOak is its security system. SpiderOak uses a variety of security measures to protect your data from being accessed by unauthorized users.

SpiderOak also has some great features for people who need to share files with other people. One feature is its sharing feature, which allows you to share files with other people quickly and easily.

Backblaze

Backblaze is one of the leading cloud storage services available online. It offers a range of different storage options, including unlimited storage for $5 per month.

Backblaze also has a very good customer service team. If you have any problems with your account or data, they are always happy to help. They offer a money-back guarantee if you are not happy with their service.

pCloud

pCloud offers a free trial so you can try it before you buy it. This allows you to test out the different features and decide whether it is the right storage solution for you.

pCloud offers a lot of different storage options, including a paid plan with more storage space and a paid plan with unlimited storage space. You can also buy individual plans or subscribe to a monthly plan.

pCloud is very reliable and has a good customer service team that can help you if you have any problems. It has a wide range of features and is available on many different platforms.

Conclusion

It’s no secret that cloud storage is becoming increasingly popular, especially with people who rely on electronic devices and services for work or leisure. With so many options available, it can be hard to decide which cloud storage service is best for you. In this article, we compare the top 10 cloud storage services available online. We’ll give you an overview of each service, including its features and pricing. After reading this article, hopefully, you will have a better understanding of what each option has to offer and which one might be the best fit for your needs. Thanks for reading!

THE COMPLETE CHECKLIST OF CLOUD SECURITY BEST PRACTICES

Cloud computing has become a popular choice for organizations of all sizes and industries, with many benefits to offer. But not all the risks are immediately visible, and it can take some time to discover that they’ve been compromised. In this blog post, you will find best practices for ensuring cloud security so that your organization can avoid these risks and maintain maximum uptime. In this post, we’ll take a look at the most important cloud security practices. These are things that you should think about before taking your business into the cloud or updating your current security practices with new ones. Let’s dive in!

Why is it important to protect your data?

It is important to protect your data because otherwise it may be lost or stolen. The most common ways that data is stolen or lost include hacking (especially if the company doesn’t use strong passwords), wiping (data is deleted on a hard drive or in the cloud), and intercepting network traffic. There are many best practices to help prevent this, such as using strong passwords, keeping devices updated, and encrypting communications.

What are common threats to cloud computing?

One of the most common threats to cloud computing is hackers. To protect against this, you should always use strong passwords and update them regularly. You’ll also want to make sure to change your password if you happen to get hacked. Another common threat is malware. It’s important to scan your computer before connecting it to any public network, especially a public Wi-Fi network at an airport or coffee shop. You should also avoid websites that might have viruses or malicious software and don’t download anything from unknown sources.

A virtual private network (VPN) can help keep you safe. VPNs encrypt all of the data that you transmit, even though it will be transmitted across a public network. This means that your information is safe from hackers while you’re using public networks like Wi-Fi hotspots from places like Starbucks or airports. Finally, it’s important to back up your data regularly so nothing gets lost in case something happens with the cloud system for some reason and there’s been no recent backup.

What should I look for in a provider of cloud storage?

One of the most important parts of selecting a cloud storage provider is looking at the level of encryption that they offer. You want to choose a provider that has either AES 256-bit or AES 128-bit encryption. This ensures that your data is safe and protected. Another important part of selecting a cloud storage provider is looking at their security record. You want to find someone with a long history of protecting data, not breaching it. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your information is secure in their hands.

What are the best cloud security practices?

There are many different best practices for the security of a cloud. One such practice is to be selective about what data you store in the cloud. If you have sensitive data that isn’t necessary to store in the cloud, then this shouldn’t be done. The reason for this is because there’s no encryption with some public clouds and it can be accessed by anyone who finds it. Storing all of your info on a public cloud will give hackers access to everything and anything they want; so it’s best to leave out sensitive information that doesn’t need to be stored there.

Following is a checklist to practice to ensure cloud security:

First: Know your data

Many factors come into play when setting up a cloud. The first step is to know your data. You should be able to recognize what types of files you’re storing and what their purpose is. If you want to understand the data better, it’s best to ensure that you can restore everything in the event of a disaster. It’s also important to make sure that your backup strategy is comprehensive and in place.

  1. Identify data – it is important to know which data is important or sensitive and which are regulated data. Since it is data that is at risk of being stolen, it is necessary to know how data are stored.
  2. Tracking data – see, how are your data transferred or shared, who has access to them, and most importantly know where your data is being shared.

Second: Know your cloud network

A cloud network is a shared resource that all employees use. The issue with this type of resource is that it could be accessed and modified by many people at once, which makes it vulnerable to attacks. To mitigate this risk, your company should have a complete checklist of best practices for securing the cloud network.

  1. Check for unknown cloud users – check for the cloud services that are being used without your knowledge. Sometimes employees convert files online which can be risky.
  2. Be thorough with your IaaS (Infrastructure-as-a-Service) – several critical settings can create a weakness for your company if misconfigured. Change the settings according to your preference or opt for a customized cloud service.
  3. Prevent data to be shared with unknown and unmanaged devices – one way, is to block downloads for a personal phone which will prevent a blind spot in your security posture.

Third: Know your employees

When it comes to securing your company’s data, there are a few things you should know about your employees. What kind of devices do they use? What kinds of passwords are they given? Do they have access to any systems that would compromise your business? If you don’t know these things, you should start asking them questions before the next big cyber-attack hits. Basic employee checks can help you identify threats before they become a problem.

  1. Look for malicious behavior – cyberattacks can be created by both your employees and cyber-hackers.
  2. Limit sharing of data – control how data should be shared once it enters the cloud. To start, set users or groups to viewer or editor and what data can be accessed by them.

Fourth: Train employees

Companies should provide their employees with a checklist of cloud security best practices that they should follow for the company to be compliant. This will allow employees to know what steps need to be taken and what risks they may face when using cloud services. If a company has its servers, then it needs to ensure that all passwords are changed regularly, and records of passwords are stored securely. It is also important for companies to implement strong authentication methods on their cloud systems for them to know if an employee is accessing the system legitimately.

For an employee who is storing data in the cloud, it’s important to understand that there are many security risks involved. For example, malware attacks can occur if employees use public or untrusted Wi-Fi networks to connect their devices to the internet. Gaining access to company information is also possible. To solve these problems, companies should train their staff on how to secure cloud storage and communicate those procedures throughout the organization.

Fifth: You should be trained to secure cloud storage

The important thing to keep in mind is that managing your security is just as important as securing your company’s data. You should always train yourself to secure cloud storage and make sure that you have a good password for all of the online sites where you store or download data. You should be trained to understand and notice any changes in your data. This will also help you to make quick decisions in an emergency.

Sixth: Take precautions to secure your cloud storage

  1. Apply to data protection policies – policies will help in governing the different types of data. This will erase data, move data depending on the type of data, and if required coach users if a policy is broken.
  • Encrypting data – it will prevent outsiders to have access to the data except for cloud services providers who still have the encryption keys. This way, you will get full control access.
  • Have advanced malware protection – you are responsible for securing your OS, applications, and network traffic in an IaaS environment. That is why having malware protection is necessary to protect your infrastructure.
  • Remove malware – it is possible to have malware through shared folders that sync automatically with cloud storage services. That is why regular checks for malware and other viruses.
  • Add another layer of verification to sensitive data – it will only be known to authorized personnel.
  • Updating policies and security software – outdated software will provide less protection to your data compared to your advanced software.

Conclusion

The conclusion is to review the checklist for best practices and then have a conversation with your IT team about your cloud security structure. Many benefits of cloud computing make it worth considering.

 But also, as with any new technology, think through your security concerns before you go and make sure you’re not exposing yourself.

DO I NEED TO KEEP STORAGE FOR MY HOME SECURITY SYSTEM?

What is a Security System?

A security system is a group of devices, including a window, door, and environmental sensors. It is connected to a central keypad or hub (usually your phone). The purpose of these systems is to protect your home from intruders. Most systems require you to keep storage for the equipment, which can be an inconvenience for some people.

A security system for your home typically includes a burglar alarm, which warns you about environmental dangers such as fire, carbon monoxide, and flooding. However, there are major differences between a burglar alarm and a home security system.

A burglar alarm is triggered by an unauthorized entry into your house, while a home security system can be armed or disarmed depending on your needs.

Types of Security System

There are many types of security systems that can be installed to protect property and/or people from intruders. There is a wide variety of systems available, some with more features than others. Some of the more common types of systems are alarms, cameras, and locks.

A CCTV system is a type of security system that uses video cameras to capture footage of the area being protected. This footage can then be used as evidence in the event of a crime or other incident. CCTV systems are typically less expensive than traditional security systems, which rely on alarm triggers to notify law enforcement or security personnel. However, CCTV systems are reactive, meaning that they only record footage after an incident has occurred.

A CCTV system is more suited for a business or other public area where people are constantly coming and going. A security system with storage is important because it records all activity that happens in its vicinity, which can be used as evidence if something goes wrong.

If you’re looking for a way to protect your property, you might be wondering if you need to keep storage for your home security system. The answer is: it depends. If you have a CCTV system, the video recordings can serve as an unbiased source of truth in the event of an incident on your property. However, if you don’t have a CCTV system, then you’ll need to keep storage for your security system in order footage from past events.

Benefits of Having Security Cameras

There are several benefits to having security cameras in your home. Security cameras can be used for a variety of purposes, including home security and monitoring, catching criminals, deterring crime, and more. Home security systems with surveillance cameras can provide peace of mind and may help reduce insurance premiums.

It is important to consider your specific needs when choosing security camera equipment. For example, if you have a large home, you will need more storage space for footage than someone who lives in a small apartment. Additionally, if you have valuable possessions that you want to protect, then having security cameras may be a wise investment.

Protect your home when you’re away!

It’s important to protect your home while you’re away, even if no one is living in it. You should hire a home security company to monitor your house and install an alarm system, as well as keep all the windows and doors locked.

One way to protect your belongings while you’re away is by installing an asset protection device. This type of device can help you know if someone has tampered with your belongings, even if there is no physical evidence.

Which security camera storage option should I choose?

When it comes to security cameras, one of the main decisions you will have to make is which storage option to choose.

There are two main options: cloud storage and local storage.

With cloud storage, your footage is stored on a remote server, meaning you don’t need to have an internet connection to access it.

With local storage, your footage is stored on a physical device like a hard drive or SD card, meaning you will need to be connected to the internet in tow it.

Local Storage

Advantages of local storage for security system storage

There are several pros to using local storage for your home security system. First, having a local storage device means that you don’t have to rely on the cloud or an internet connection to store your footage. This can be important if you’re concerned about privacy or if you’re dealing with sensitive data. Additionally, local storage is often cheaper and faster than cloud storage, and it can be more reliable since it’s not dependent on external factors.

Disadvantages of local storage for security system storage

On the downside, local storage for home security systems comes with some risks. For example, if a thief breaks into your house and steals your security system, you will not be able to access any of the footage without that specific device. Furthermore, if there is an internet outage or your power goes out, you will not be able to access your footage from anywhere.

Cloud Storage

Advantages of cloud storage for security system storage

Cloud storage is a convenient way to store information remotely. This means that the data is not stored on your device but remote server. This offers several advantages, including, but not limited to, accessibility from any device with an internet connection, automatic backup and syncing across devices, and the ability to share files with others.

Disadvantages of cloud storage for security system storage

However, there are also some disadvantages to using cloud storage, including potential security risks and the fact that you are relying on a third party to store your data.

The main disadvantages of cloud storage are that it can be vulnerable to data loss, and it is difficult to access files when you need them. For example, if your computer crashes or you lose your internet connection, you may not be able to access your files in the cloud.

How do wireless security cameras work?

Wireless security cameras use radio waves to send pictures and video to a monitoring station. This means that the cameras do not need to be plugged into an electrical outlet, which gives you more flexibility in terms of where you can place them. The images are transmitted using a frequency between 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz, which is why you may need to change the channel on your wireless router if you are experiencing interference.

What happens with old security footage?

When an SD card or hard drive reaches capacity, the newest footage will be saved and the older footage will be deleted. This is done in the room for new footage.

Generally speaking, any footage that is saved to a camera will be overwritten as new footage is recorded. However, if the video surveillance is being recorded to an external recorder, older footage can be stored on the external recorder itself or deleted completely depending on the settings chosen. This gives businesses and homeowners peace of mind knowing that their security footage will not be lost due to a lack of storage space.

How to keep your footage?

If you are like most people, you probably have a home security system. And if you have a home security system, then you likely have footage of your property that you would like to keep. The problem is that most home security systems store footage on the company’s server. This can be a problem because the company could go out of business or decide to delete old footage for any number of reasons.

The amount of storage you need for your home security system footage will depend on a few factors. The type and amount of home surveillance in place, the number of outdoor or indoor surveillance cameras, and whether the footage is in color or black & white are all important considerations.

Amazon Launches 3 AWS Outposts

What is the Amazon Outpost device?

Outpost is a physical device that you install in your office. It is a computer that runs the same software as Amazon Web Services (AWS) and allows you to access all of the same services and features. This makes it easy for companies to move their applications and data to AWS without having to re-architect or re-write anything.

An Outpost device is a physical server that you can use to launch EC2 instances, store data, and more. You can use it to extend your AWS environment into your own data center or colocation facility.

AWS Outposts are a new type of Amazon EC2 instance that you can use to run your applications on-premises. You can use Outposts to create a secure hybrid environment by connecting them with VPNs to your existing on-premises infrastructure. Outpost supports multiple Amazon VPCs, so you can create separate environments for different applications or business units.

Outposts are essentially AWS-branded hardware that customers can order from Amazon, and they will come in configurations that match the types and sizes of instances available on the public AWS cloud.

AWS Outposts are physical devices that give you the ability to run AWS services from your data center, office, or other on-premises location. This means that you can leverage the full suite of AWS services without having to worry about latency or connectivity issues. Additionally, Outposts provide a consistent experience and feature set across on-premises and cloud environments.

What is the AWS outpost used for?

AWS Outposts are a new service from Amazon that allows you to run AWS services on-premises. This means that you can now have the benefits of the AWS cloud without having to give up control of your data or infrastructure. Outposts are available in two versions: VMware Cloud on AWS Outposts and EC2 Bare Metal Instances. They can be used for a variety of different applications including financial services, manufacturing, retail, healthcare, telecoms, and media and entertainment.

AWS Outposts is a new product by Amazon that provides companies with the ability to run AWS services in their own data centers. The service is fully managed by AWS, which means that companies do not need to worry about monitoring, patching, or updating the service. This gives companies more flexibility and control over their infrastructure.

AWS Outposts are a way for customers to have AWS infrastructure in their own data center. These are particularly useful for customers who want to take advantage of the full suite of AWS services but also need to keep data on-premises for specific reasons. There are 18 different configuration options available for AWS Outposts depending on the specific needs of the customer.

Benefits of AWS outposts

AWS Outposts are a new service announced by Amazon that allows customers to run AWS services on-premises. This means that companies can have the benefits of using AWS public cloud, such as flexibility and scalability, while still having the data reside in their own data center. Outposts are managed by the same systems as AWS public cloud, which should make deployment and management easier for customers.

AWS Outposts are a new service that allows customers to run AWS compute and storage services on-premises. Outposts are in colocation facilities, which gives customers the flexibility to choose the location of their infrastructure. This can be helpful for customers who want to keep data on-premises or have latency-sensitive workloads.

How do AWS outposts work?

AWS outposts are a new service that allows companies to run AWS services on-premises. Outposts can be ordered from the AWS console in any of 18 supported regions, and they come in two types: hardware outposts, which are physical servers that you install in your data center, and virtual outposts, which are software-defined instances running in your own VMs or on bare metal.

AWS Outposts are racks that are delivered by Amazon employees and come fully populated and configured. They can be connected to your data center’s power supply and network, giving you the flexibility to run AWS and VMware workloads on-premises.

AWS Outposts are now available in three configurations to best meet the needs of your organization. Configuration options include Development and Test Usage, General Purpose Usage, Compute Intensive Applications, Memory Intensive Applications, Graphics Intensive Applications, and Storage options.

What are the basic services in AWS?

AWS offers a broad range of infrastructure services, such as computing power, storage options, networking, and databases. This allows businesses to build custom applications and websites, host their data, and more. AWS also offers a wide variety of features and services that can be customized to fit the needs of each business.

How do you get an AWS outpost?

Outposts are delivered as fully managed servers, storage, and networking hardware that are preconfigured to run specific AWS services.

An Outpost is an AWS-managed server that can be installed at a customer site in a supported region. Customers can use Outposts to run applications and services that are hosted on Amazon EC2 instances, AWS Lambda functions, Amazon ECS clusters, and Amazon Elastic Kubernetes Service (EKS) clusters.

First, you must create a site. Once you have created the site, you will need to answer a series of questions in order to be approved for an AWS outpost. The questions are meant to ensure that the outpost will be put to good use and that it will not impact other users on the platform.

You can choose an outpost configuration from the Outposts Catalogue.

Where is AWS outpost availability?

AWS Outposts are currently available in 5 regions: Europe, Asia Pacific, US East, US West, and Canada. They will be expanding to more regions in the future.

AWS Outposts are available in three regions: US West (N. California), AWS GovCloud (US), and Europe (Frankfurt). These are managed by the same systems as AWS public cloud, so customers can use the same APIs, tools, and consoles to manage their infrastructure.

AWS Outposts are physical servers that you can install in your own data center or colocation facility. They are managed by AWS tools, giving you the same functionality as if they were in an AWS Region. You can use them to run applications and workloads that are not currently supported on AWS, such as SAP HANA, Oracle Database, and Microsoft SQL Server.

What are AWS s3 outposts?

AWS S3 Outposts are a new product by Amazon that allows companies to have the benefits of cloud computing while still keeping their data within their own country. This is done by providing storage servers that are compatible with the AWS S3 storage service. This gives companies more control over their data and helps keep it within the country, which can be important for data sovereignty reasons.

How will you be billed for AWS outposts?

AWS Outposts are a new service that gives you the ability to run AWS infrastructure on-premises. You will be billed in the same way as you care for other AWS services. AWS takes care of monitoring, maintaining, and upgrading your Outposts for you.

There are three payment options for customers who want to use AWS Outposts. Customers can pay for the entire service upfront, pay for part of the service upfront, or not pay anything upfront and be billed monthly.

What AWS services are available on AWS outposts?

AWS Outposts is a new service that Amazon has launched that allows customers to run AWS services on their own premises. There are three different options for running AWS services on Outposts: EC2 instances, EBS storage, and ECS and EKS containers. This gives customers more flexibility in how they want to use AWS services.

BEST FREE AND PAID CLOUD STORAGE PROVIDERS IN 2022

Cloud storage and its benefits.

Cloud storage is like a virtual data center that is not operated by the company using it, instead, the cloud service provider provides the facilities of the data center from far away.

In cloud storage, the user’s data is copied multiple times and stored in several data centers so that the user can access data from another data center in case of a server failure. This way, the user can still access data if there is a power outage or any hardware failures, or any major natural disasters.

To use cloud services, the user will only need to pay for the storage area it wants to apply for and for the type of service without blocking any area in the company’s premises to have access to the storage area.

Cloud services are provided to the companies through a web surface interface and the user is not required to own huge systems.

Companies having access to the cloud services do not need to worry about maintaining the data center infrastructure on a regular device or allocate an amount of budget to have data center facilities.

Stealing data and information has always been in there in every industry. It can be prevented but not entirely. To prevent the loss of entire data, companies need to have trained, quick decision-making IT professionals. Cloud servers are well equipped with IT professionals since it’s their primary service provided to their customers. Apart from that, it is not possible for individual companies to keep their update their IT infrastructure updated.

Using cloud services will reduce capital expenses for the company.

If every company uses their own IT infrastructure for data, then there will be a high consumption of energy whereas a single cloud service provider can cater data center facilities to so many companies at a time keeping the energy consumption low.

In order to use more storage companies, a company needs to contact their cloud service provider to change their subscription plan to gain more access to the storage area with just an increase in the rate to acquire the subscription.

Difference between free cloud storage and paid cloud storage.

In free cloud storage services, some famous paid cloud service providers provide cloud services for free. To upload the data, the user needs to have an internet connection.

Having free cloud storage, allows the user to have their data in backup which will be protected and can be accessed through many devices.

This is beneficial for those with less storage capacity in their devices and who don’t want to invest in a storage medium. Free cloud storage will help the user to store some of their, media and files in the cloud and create free storage space in their device. The media and file will still be accessible to the user by just using an internet service. This way, the user will be able to store important media and files and prevent having them accidentally deleted.

In free cloud service, data can be accessed from anywhere without the need to pay any charge, just sign up to the company’s account.

Although while signing up for free cloud services has the disadvantage of having access to a limited data storage space and to have more storage space, the user will need to pay for more space. 

A common thing about paid and free cloud services is that to have a better in any one of them, the user will need to purchase advanced service from the cloud service provider.

In paid cloud storage services, the providers allow the user to have more storage area and also more security, the user will be able to backup media and files from more than one device. 

Following are some cloud storage providers:

Google Cloud Free Program –

The user will get the following options:

90-day, $300 Free Trial – under this, new google cloud users or Google Maps Platforms users can avail free Google cloud and Google Maps Platform services for 90 days for trial along with $300 in free Cloud Billing Credits.

All Google Cloud users can avail free Google Cloud products like Compute Engine, Cloud Storage, and BigQuery within the specified monthly usage limits, described by Google.

To store Google Maps, Google Maps Platform provides a recurring $200 monthly credit applying towards each Maps-related Cloud Billing account created by the user.

Google One – the storage will be shared through Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos.

Firstly, Google One allows its users to have access to 15 GB free. After which to have more storage space, the user will need to pay for

BASIC: $1.99 per month or $19.99 annually for 100 GB, which further includes access to google experts, an option to add family members of the user, and have benefits for an extra member but the family members are also required to live in the same country.

STANDARD: $2.99 per month or $29.99 annually for 200 GB.

This includes the same benefits as the BASIC package.

PREMIUM: $9.99 per month or $99.99 annually for 2 TB.

This includes the same benefits as the BASIC package and gives the user a VPN to use on their Android devices.

Amazon Web Services – it provides 160 cloud services. Under Free Tier services, after signing up for an account, the user avail services based upon their needs. There are some services, under Free Tier, which are free for 12 months, some services are always free whereas some have a trial period after which the user needs to purchase a membership to continue availing the services.

Microsoft Azure Free Account – when a user signs up for Azure with a free account, they get USD 200 credit for the first 30 days. It also includes two groups of services including popular services free for 12 months and other 25 services which will be always free.

Microsoft Azure has Pricing Calculator which allows potential service buyer to calculate their pricing estimates based on their existing workloads.

OneDrive: based on the potential user’s preferences, the buyer can opt for a package for home or for business.

In Microsoft 365 for family, the buyer can have a trial for a month ranging from 1 person to 6 people. In Microsoft 365 Business, the number of users depends on the type of plan.

IBM Cloud – IBM also provides storage options with always-free options or options with free trials after which the user needs to apply for services allotting a credit amount before starting the trial period.

iCloud storage: when a person signs up, the user is automatically enrolled for free 5GB of storage to keep media and files.

After using all of the 5GB storage space in iCloud, the user can upgrade to iCloud+ and also allows the user to share iCloud with their family.

Oracle: it provides a free time-limited trial to help the user explore services provided by Oracle Cloud Infrastructure products along with a few lifetime free services. The potential user will have $300 worth of cloud credits valid for 30 days.

DropBox: the free plan in this is suitable for those minimal requirements of storage since with free access, DropBox provides 2 GB of space and along with other benefits, if a user accidentally deletes a file from DropBox, the file can be restored from DropBox within 30 days.

To have more storage space with DropBox, the user can upgrade to paid plans.

Both are safe options to store personal, media, and files but a paid cloud membership is suitable for businesses required to protect more sensitive files than an individual person. That is why, free cloud servers and advised for personal use.

HOW IS BLOCKCHAIN DISRUPTING THE CLOUD STORAGE INDUSTRY?

What is blockchain and why people are using it?

It is a distributed database shared through nodes of a computer network. Blockchain helps to store the information electronically in a digital format. Blockchain is known for being used in cryptocurrency systems, such as Bitcoin. It helps in creating a secure and decentralized record of transactions.

Blockchain claims to guarantee the fidelity and security of the recorded data and trust without involving a trusted third party.

In the blockchain, data is stored in sets known as blocks holding sets of information. These blocks have a fixed amount of storage capacity and are closely linked with the previous block, therefore, forming a blockchain. When new information needs to be recorded, a new block is formed and after the information has been recorded, the block gets added to the chain.

Traditionally in databases, data are recorded in tables whereas, in blockchain, databases are formed into blocks. Each block creates a timestamp in the data structure. When a block is added to the chain, as a result, it creates a fixed timeline of data result, data structure creates an irreversible timeline of data which becomes fixed in the timeline. 

Blockchain is preferred due to various reasons. 

Blockchain is used in transactional fields, being approved by thousands of computers. This helps in eliminating human involvement. Blockchain doesn’t require to have the verification process done by a human. Even if a mistake, due to being separate blocks, the error will not spread out.

Just like eliminating the need for humans to verify, similarly, blockchain removes any need for a trusted third-party verification and thus eliminates the cost that comes with it. When doing the payment, payment processing companies incur a charge but blockchain helps in eliminating them as well.

Information stored in the blockchain is not located in its central location. Information is spread throughout various computers. This step reduces the chances of losing data since if a copy of the blockchain is breached then only a single copy of the information will be with the cyber attackers and the whole network will not be compromised.

Blockchain provides quick deposits all day and every day. This is helpful if money needs to be transferred or deposited to a bank in different time zones. 

Blockchain networks are confidential networks and not just anonymous. When transactions are made using blockchain, a person with the internet can view the list of transaction history but the person will not be able to access any information about the use nor can the user be identified. 

To store in blockchain about the transaction, a unique key or a public key is added to the blockchain on behalf of the transaction detail recorded in the blockchain.

After the transactions are recorded, they need to get verified by the blockchain network. When information is verified by the blockchain network then the information gets added to the blockchain. 

Most blockchain is entirely open-source software. This means it can be accessed by anyone and can be viewed by anyone which enables to review of cryptocurrencies. Thus, there is no hidden information about who controls Bitcoin or how is it edited. Hence, anybody can suggest new changes, and later on, if companies accept the idea, then the idea will be updated.

Several types of industries have started adopting blockchain in their companies. 

What is cloud storage and why do people use it?

Cloud storage help businesses and consumers to have a secure online place to store data. Having data online allows the user to access the data from any location and also the data can be shared with those who have the authorization to access it. Cloud storage also helps to back up data so that data can be recovered even from an off-site location.

Having access to cloud services allows the user to have upgraded subscription packages which will allow the user to have access to large storage sizes and additional cloud services.

Using cloud storage helps businesses to eliminate the need to buy data storage infrastructure which will help the company to have more space on the premises. Having cloud infrastructure eliminates the requirement to maintain the cloud infrastructure in the premises since cloud infrastructure will be maintained by the cloud service provider. The cloud servers will help companies to up their storage capacity whenever required just by changing the subscription plan. 

Cloud enables its users to collaborate with their colleagues which means that the users can work remotely and even after or before business hours. This is because users can access files anytime if they are authorized to. Cloud servers can be accessed with mobile data as well therefore using cloud storage to store files will bring a positive effect on the environment since there will be less consumption of energy.

Therefore, by eliminating the need to have employees for the on-premises data center, the company can employ for the tasks which have higher priorities.

Cloud computing provides various services such as 

  • Infrastructure as a Service,
  • Platform as a Service,
  • Software as a Service.

Difference between blockchain and cloud storage?

Where data can be accessed through the cloud anytime, in blockchain, it uses different styles of encryption along with hash to store data in protected databases. 

In the cloud, storage data are mutable whereas, in blockchain technology, data are not mutable. 

Cloud storage provides services in three formats and in blockchain it eliminates the need to use a trusted third party.

Cloud computing is centralized which means that all the data are stored in the company’s centralized set of data centers where blockchain follows decentralization.

A user can choose their data to be either public or private or a combination of both but in blockchain, its main feature is providing transparency of data.

Cloud computing follows the traditional method of database structure data stored will reside in the machines involving participants. Whereas, blockchain claims to be incorruptible where online data registry is reliable with various transactions. This states that participants using blockchain technology can alter the data by taking necessary approval from each party involved in the transaction.

Following are the companies which provide cloud computing services:

Google, IBM, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, and Alibaba Cloud.

Following are the projects which use blockchain technology:

Ethereum, Bitcoin, Hyperledger Fabric, and Quorum.

How is blockchain disrupting the cloud storage industry?

Mainly why blockchain is moving ahead with progress and is getting more preference is due to the fact that it is more secure due to the elimination of trusted third parties. Also keeping the data in a decentralized manner also makes the blockchain technology more secure. Not to forget that data gets secured in a block thus, cyber attackers can’t access the whole chain of data since they are separated and need different unique keys. Therefore, blockchain is less vulnerable to attackers and there is reduced systematic damage and widespread data loss. 

Also, it is next to impossible if someone wants to alter the data since the transactions are governed by a code and it is not controlled by a third party. 

Many companies have jumped to providing blockchain services along with their cloud services. That is because providing blockchain services cost less expensive as many small organizations collaborate and provide the shared computing power and space to store data. 

Following are some companies that are using blockchain technology, as per 101Blockchains:

Unilever, Ford, FDA, DHL, AIA Group, MetLife, American International Group, etc.

Salesforce has launched Salesforce Blockchain which is built on CRM software. 

Storj provides blockchain technology services enabled with cloud storage networks which help in facilitating better security and lowering the cost of transactions for storing information in the cloud.

NHL Partners with AWS (Amazon) for Cloud Infrastructure

NHL Powered by AWS

“Do you believe in miracles? Yes!” This was ABC sportscaster Al Michaels’ quote “heard ’round the world” after the U.S. National Team beat the Soviet National Team at the 1980 Lake Placid Winter Olympic Games to advance to the medal round. One of the greatest sports moments ever that lives in infamy among hockey fans is readily available for all of us to enjoy as many times as we want thanks to modern technology. Now the National Hockey League (NHL) is expanding their reach with technology as they announced a partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS). AWS will become the official cloud storage partner of the league, making sure all historical moments like the Miracle on Ice are never forgotten.

The NHL will rely on AWS exclusively in the areas of artificial intelligence and machine learning as they look to automate video processing and content delivery in the cloud. AWS will also allow them to control the Puck and Player Tracking (PPT) System to better capture the details of gameplay. Hockey fans everywhere are in for a treat!

What is the PPT System?

The NHL has been working on developing the PPT system since 2013. Once it is installed in every team’s arena in the league, the innovative system will require several antennas in the rafters of the arenas, tracking sensors placed on every player in the game, and tracking sensors built into the hockey pucks. The hockey puck sensors can be tracked up to 2,000 times per second to yield a set of coordinates that can then turn into new results and analytics.

The Puck Stops Here! Learn how the NHL’s L.A. Kings use LTO Tape to build their archive.

How Will AWS Change the Game?

AWS’s state-of-the-art technology and services will provide us with capabilities to deliver analytics and insights that highlight the speed and skill of our game to drive deeper fan engagement. For example, a hockey fan in Russia could receive additional stats and camera angles for a major Russian player. For international audiences that could be huge. Eventually, personalized feeds could be possible for viewers who would be able to mix and match various audio and visual elements. 

The NHL will also build a video platform on AWS to store video, data, and related applications into one central source that will enable easier search and retrieval of archival video footage. Live broadcasts will have instant access to NHL content and analytics for airing and licensing, ultimately enhancing broadcast experiences for every viewer. Also, Virtual Reality experiences, Augmented Reality-powered graphics, and live betting feeds are new services that can be added to video feeds.

As part of the partnership, Amazon Machine Learning Solutions will cooperate with the league to use its tech for in-game video and official NHL data. The plan is to convert the data into advanced game analytics and metrics to further engage fans. The ability for data to be collected, analyzed, and distributed as fast as possible was a key reason why the NHL has partnered with AWS.

The NHL plans to use AWS Elemental Media to develop and manage cloud-based HD and 4K video content that will provide a complete view of the game to NHL officials, coaches, players, and fans. When making a crucial game-time decision on a penalty call the referees will have multi-angle 4k video and analytics to help them make the correct call on the ice. According to Amazon Web Services, the system will encode, process, store, and transmit game footage from a series of camera angles to provide continuous video feeds that capture plays and events outside the field of view of traditional cameras.

The NHL and AWS plan to roll out the new game features slowly throughout the next coming seasons, making adjustments along the way to enhance the fan experience. As one of the oldest and toughest sports around, hockey will start to have a new sleeker look. Will all the data teams will be able to collect, we should expect a faster, stronger, more in-depth game. Do you believe in miracles? Hockey fans sure do!

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