Google and other public cloud providers
Google, Oracle, IBM and other public cloud providers offer various compute, storage and networking services -- as well as more advanced technologies for machine learning and more -- yet one might better meet an enterprise's needs than another. Read tips and news coverage to choose the right provider, and keep up with its expanding cloud portfolio.
Top Stories
-
Tip
18 Jan 2023
IaaS vs. PaaS options on AWS, Azure and Google Cloud Platform
Looking to shift your organization's workloads to the cloud? Understand the advantages and disadvantages of IaaS and PaaS options on AWS, Azure and Google Cloud Platform. Continue Reading
-
Quiz
01 Nov 2022
Quiz yourself on cloud computing basics
To grasp a technology, it's best to start with the basics. Take this brief cloud computing quiz to gauge your knowledge of providers, deployment models and other 101-level topics. Continue Reading
-
Tip
11 Oct 2022
Choose the right on-premises-to-cloud migration method
One of the first steps in a cloud migration is to choose a data transfer model. There are two options to consider -- online and offline -- but you need to weigh the pros and cons. Continue Reading
-
Feature
05 Oct 2022
Public vs. private vs. hybrid cloud: Key differences defined
As cloud services and practices mature, it's time to rethink long-held assumptions about the private and public cloud models and consider a hybrid cloud. Continue Reading
-
Feature
10 May 2022
8 native Google Cloud management tools admins should know
IT teams can use a range of native management and monitoring tools from Google to ensure their public cloud deployments are reliable and cost-effective. Continue Reading
-
Tip
03 Mar 2022
Compare Azure instance types for cloud workloads
Deciding on the best Azure compute instance type for a cloud workload involves many choices. Use these tips to help select the right size VM, optimized for the right tasks. Continue Reading
-
Quiz
24 Feb 2022
Test your platform-as-a-service knowledge with this PaaS quiz
PaaS offerings continue to evolve, with a range of vendors and tools available to enterprise development teams. Use this quiz to see the strength of your PaaS knowledge. Continue Reading
-
Tip
30 Dec 2021
3 popular machine learning certifications to get in 2022
Google, AWS and Azure offer machine learning certifications for the cloud that can further your career. Learn what to expect from each exam, skills you need to know and study tips. Continue Reading
-
Tip
03 Dec 2021
Break down the Google Cloud resource hierarchy
Admins can use Organizations, Folders, Projects and Resources to manage employee access within Google Cloud. But first, they must understand the distinctions between each level. Continue Reading
-
Tip
17 Nov 2021
How to use Google's workload identity federation with AWS
Cloud admins struggle to share data between cloud providers. Here are the steps to create a federated identity in Google Cloud, connecting it to AWS in a secure way. Continue Reading
-
Tip
09 Nov 2021
PaaS showdown: AWS Elastic Beanstalk vs. Google App Engine
AWS and Google Cloud offer their own flavor of PaaS. While they share some similarities, take a closer look at their core features and use cases before you choose an offering. Continue Reading
-
Feature
14 Oct 2021
Google Cloud, Hologic use AI tools to fight cervical cancer
The tech giant and medical technology vendor are working together to make cervical cancer screening technology widely accessible to women everywhere and fight the disease. Continue Reading
-
News
14 Oct 2021
MLB Statcast delivering real-time insights with Google Cloud
With Google Cloud to process and transform data collected during games by its tracking technology, Major League Baseball is delivering real-time insights to both fans and teams. Continue Reading
-
News
12 Oct 2021
Google expands Cloud Spanner database with PostgreSQL
A year after it was first introduced, Google's BigQuery Omni multi-cloud data platform is now generally available as Google continues to push its data agenda in the cloud. Continue Reading
-
News
12 Oct 2021
Google, partners launch new tools for Vertex AI ML platform
The tech giant released a series of new tools and applications, some with partners, for the automated machine learning platform it launched in May 2021. Continue Reading
-
Tip
27 Sep 2021
How to manage cloud transfer and egress charges
It's expensive -- sometimes shockingly expensive -- to move data out of the cloud. Consider these factors to avoid costly data transfer bills. Continue Reading
-
Tip
10 Sep 2021
How to use Google Cloud Operations suite
Follow along to set up Google Cloud Operations' Monitoring and Logging services, try Google's Monitoring Query Language and automate dashboard creation with the API. Continue Reading
-
Tip
18 Aug 2021
Compare AWS Lambda vs. Azure Functions vs. Google Cloud Functions
Trying to find the right serverless service? Evaluate differences in price, language support and deployment models for AWS Lambda, Azure Functions and Google Cloud Functions. Continue Reading
-
News
29 Jun 2021
Nvidia partners with Google Cloud to boost AI for 5G app dev
Nvidia continues its aggressive push into both the AI and 5G markets, partnering with Google Cloud to aid in development of AI apps for the data center to the edge. Continue Reading
-
Feature
17 Jun 2021
Core Azure networking services you need to know
Network connectivity can make or break a cloud deployment. Discover the basics of Azure network services with this list of key offerings and terms. Continue Reading
-
Tip
18 May 2021
Try before you buy with free tiers in cloud
Cloud services aren't cheap, and you don't want to get stuck using one that isn't the right fit. This is where the 'try before you buy' options come in. Continue Reading
-
Tip
14 May 2021
Compare VMware cloud offerings for AWS, Azure and Google
With VMware cloud offerings, enterprises can integrate on-premises and public cloud infrastructures into a common IT environment. Explore the offerings from AWS, Azure and Google. Continue Reading
-
News
11 May 2021
IBM hybrid cloud, AI offerings ease data integration
IBM rolled out new hybrid cloud and AI offerings this week, while CEO Arvind Krishna offered his vision for how those technologies will reshape business. Continue Reading
-
Answer
29 Apr 2021
Google Anthos features and updates
Review the latest improvements to Google's hybrid cloud platform, such as bolstered multi-cloud and on-premises support. Here are the Anthos updates you won't want to miss. Continue Reading
-
Feature
26 Apr 2021
Tips to prepare for Google Cloud Architect certification
Author of 'Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect All-in-One Exam Guide' Iman Ghanizada explains how to approach the cloud architect certification and role in this Q&A. Continue Reading
-
Tip
13 Apr 2021
Azure File Sync service puts pep in hybrid storage setups
Microsoft's Azure Files offering alleviates traditional support efforts and hardware costs. Using this additional service can improve performance and keep end users happy. Continue Reading
-
Tip
09 Apr 2021
A close look at NetApp Cloud Volumes Service for Google Cloud
Compared to other versions of the NetApp Cloud Volumes Service, the software-defined edition on Google Cloud has some key distinctions that IT admins should note. Continue Reading
-
Answer
22 Mar 2021
Choose the right Google Cloud serverless service
When it comes to selecting a serverless tool, Google Cloud users have plenty of options. Evaluate the platform's suite of serverless offerings to make the right choice. Continue Reading
-
News
17 Mar 2021
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure adds next-gen AMD EPYC instances
Oracle hopes new AMD EPYC instance types that deliver more performance at the same price as the previous generation can bring more attention to its IaaS. Continue Reading
-
Feature
17 Feb 2021
How providers' industry-specific cloud offerings impact IT
Vertical industry offerings are a trend among the leading cloud providers. IT teams will have to learn to adapt to the complications and changes these efforts will spark. Continue Reading
-
Feature
03 Feb 2021
Cloud security policy configuration in AWS, Azure and GCP
Explore cloud security policy configurations in AWS, Azure and GCP using native security tools in this excerpt of 'Multi-Cloud Architecture and Governance' by Jeroen Mulder. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
11 Jan 2021
Cloud providers jockey for 2021 market share
AWS and Microsoft still dominate the cloud market, but Google, IBM and Oracle aren't without merit. Learn where each provider excels to find your perfect match. Continue Reading
-
Feature
21 Dec 2020
Top cloud computing tips of 2020
As the saying goes, hindsight is 20/20. Check out the articles that caught the attention of IT pros this year and learn what that says about the current state of the market. Continue Reading
-
Feature
21 Dec 2020
How to prepare for the OCI Architect Associate certification
Author of 'Oracle Cloud Infrastructure Architect Associate All-in-One Exam Guide' Roopesh Ramklass shares his expert advice on OCI concepts and certification in this Q&A. Continue Reading
-
Tip
04 Dec 2020
Analyze Google's cloud computing strategy
After a few false starts, Google has taken a different, more open approach to cloud computing than AWS and Azure. Let's take a look at this strategy and roadmap to date. Continue Reading
-
News
02 Dec 2020
Google's Actifio acquisition adds cloud DR, copy management
Google sees Actifio acquisition bolstering its disaster recovery and backup for Google Cloud Platform. No price was disclosed for the private company valued at more than $1 billion. Continue Reading
-
Tip
13 Nov 2020
Hybrid cloud infrastructure design for AWS, Azure, Google Anthos
Learn about infrastructure for tightly coupled hybrid clouds and delivering AWS Outposts, Microsoft Azure Stack and Google Anthos from an on-premises data center. Continue Reading
-
News
12 Nov 2020
Google brings wizard approach to cloud database migration
Google Cloud's top database executive details the tech giant's new tool for enterprises to move databases to the cloud, as the need has accelerated in the coronavirus pandemic era. Continue Reading
-
Tip
29 Oct 2020
5 machine learning skills you need in the cloud
Put your IT team in the best position to succeed with AI. Develop these machine learning skills and see how they translate to the major cloud platforms. Continue Reading
-
News
20 Oct 2020
Government action on big tech monopoly power moving quickly
Government antitrust actions are building against tech giants Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Google. They could lead to tighter regulation or even a breakup. Continue Reading
-
Tip
20 Oct 2020
Compare Google Cloud Deployment Manager vs. Terraform on GCP
Determine whether to opt for cloud native Deployment Manager or third-party Terraform for infrastructure as code on Google Cloud. Continue Reading
-
Tip
19 Oct 2020
Explore the tools for disaster recovery on AWS, Azure and GCP
Utilize cloud infrastructure for your disaster recovery plan. Learn about the tools and services from AWS, Google and Microsoft to see if they fit in your DR plan. Continue Reading
-
Quiz
13 Oct 2020
Test your knowledge with this Microsoft Azure cloud quiz
Fancy yourself a Microsoft Azure cloud expert? Put your knowledge to the test with this quiz on Azure services, tools and recent market news. Continue Reading
-
Feature
07 Oct 2020
Google Cloud growth fuels partner opportunities
Amid solid Google Cloud growth, MSP partners such as SADA Systems, Onix and Pythian say their alliance with the public cloud provider gives them a competitive edge. Continue Reading
-
Feature
25 Sep 2020
The cloud shared responsibility model for IaaS, PaaS and SaaS
The shared responsibility model defines cloud security, but it changes for IaaS, PaaS and SaaS. Get to know the ins and outs of cloud security and learn exactly what your company is responsible for. Continue Reading
-
Tip
21 Sep 2020
When -- and when not -- to use cloud native security tools
Security tools from cloud vendors are convenient, but that doesn't mean they are always the right choice. Learn how to decide when you should opt to use third-party security tools. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
08 Sep 2020
How can AWS, Azure and GCP increase cloud market share?
The Big Three dominate the cloud market, but they all have room for improvement. See what each vendor needs to do to increase its market share and attract more enterprises. Continue Reading
-
Tip
27 Aug 2020
Guide to Google Anthos architecture and management
Explore the essential concepts that make Google Anthos work, including environs and groupings. Learn how to set up this Kubernetes-powered hybrid and multi-cloud platform. Continue Reading
-
News
26 Aug 2020
Google Anthos update adds on-premises clout
An update to Google's Anthos makes the container management and orchestration platform feel more at home inside customers' data centers. Continue Reading
-
Tip
20 Aug 2020
Public cloud metrics and KPI tools your business should know
Metrics and KPIs for public cloud deployments can be overwhelming. Learn how cloud architects can track usage of compute, storage, database resources and more. Continue Reading
-
News
20 Aug 2020
Google enhances Cloud Spanner and other databases
Google is adding a series of enhancements to its cloud database portfolio, with new capabilities for the Bigtable data store, Firestore mobile database and other platforms. Continue Reading
-
Feature
06 Aug 2020
Top 5 cloud news stories of 2020 -- so far
As cloud outages and acquisitions rolled on in early 2020, it seemed like the news cycle would never slow down. Review the top news articles to prepare for the rest of the year. Continue Reading
-
Tip
05 Aug 2020
4 tips to pick the right cloud database service
Before you migrate your data to the cloud, evaluate your cloud database options. Use these guidelines to choose the right database offering for your enterprise. Continue Reading
-
News
03 Aug 2020
Google, Microsoft add to their cloud migration toolkits
New cloud migration tools and services from Google and Microsoft seek to meet customer demand for easier, faster deployments amid rising favor for multi-cloud deployments. Continue Reading
-
Feature
16 Jul 2020
Explore the benefits of multi-cloud -- and the drawbacks
The use of multi-cloud is trending up, but is it right for your workloads and business? Review the advantages and disadvantages with Gartner expert Daryl Plummer. Continue Reading
-
Tip
15 Jul 2020
Compare hybrid clouds: AWS Outposts vs. Azure Stack vs. Google Anthos
Azure Stack, AWS Outposts and Google Anthos all have similar objectives but operate in different ways. Find out which hybrid cloud platform offers the right model for your company. Continue Reading
-
News
14 Jul 2020
BigQuery Omni enables Google multi-cloud data analytics
Google BigQuery data analytics users can now query data across clouds from multiple providers, including AWS and Microsoft Azure, without the need to first move the data. Continue Reading
-
Feature
09 Jul 2020
The ins and outs of Google Cloud Anthos on NetApp HCI
Combining NetApp HCI with Anthos from Google enables enterprises to more easily implement and maintain a hybrid cloud infrastructure that supports modern applications and more. Continue Reading
-
Tip
06 Jul 2020
What's behind cloud providers' push for custom hardware?
The nature of the cloud market demands innovation, and custom hardware might be the next move for the major vendors in this space. Experts weigh in on the key drivers of this shift. Continue Reading
-
Feature
24 Jun 2020
How Azure, AWS, Google handle data destruction in the cloud
Data destruction is a topic that has been poorly covered until recently. Regardless of which cloud service provider you use, this review of the top three CSPs' data destruction documentation should improve your due diligence. Continue Reading
-
Tip
19 Jun 2020
Private cloud backup vs. public cloud vs. service providers
Whether you choose public or private cloud or a cloud service provider for backup, it comes down to your needs in such areas as cost and security. Explore how each one differs. Continue Reading
-
Video
15 Jun 2020
How to deploy machine learning models on Google's AI Platform
Follow along with this video demo, which walks through how to build and deploy machine learning models on Google Cloud with the scikit-learn framework. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
02 Jun 2020
AWS, Microsoft and Google should retire these cloud services
Nothing lasts forever. Whether they've been supplanted by newer offerings or simply outlived their usefulness, these cloud services on AWS, Azure and GCP are ready to be retired. Continue Reading
-
News
28 May 2020
Cloud use spikes amid COVID-19 but IaaS costs remain stable
Don't expect hyperscalers like AWS to profiteer from the COVID-19 pandemic. But enterprises must take extra precautions as they invest in cloud-based infrastructure and software, analysts say. Continue Reading
-
Feature
26 May 2020
Identify the Google Cloud developer tools you need
Developers want more from their cloud than APIs and services; they want tools to accelerate and improve the app dev lifecycle. Use this rundown to assess Google Cloud's developer tool set. Continue Reading
-
Tip
21 May 2020
How to deploy Terraform code in an Azure DevOps pipeline
Automation in the cloud will not only make you move faster, it will do so in an efficient way. Learn how to create an Azure DevOps pipeline with Terraform code. Continue Reading
-
Answer
21 May 2020
What is the difference between AKS and Azure Service Fabric?
Azure users have a few ways to manage containers on Microsoft's cloud. Learn when and why to pick between two of them -- AKS and Service Fabric. Continue Reading
-
News
18 May 2020
VMware Cloud Foundation to run on new Google Cloud service
VMware and Google signed their second deal in less than a year, this time to support VMware Cloud Foundation workloads on Google Cloud. Continue Reading
-
News
06 May 2020
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure pitch focused on cost, security
Oracle is intent on migrating its vast installed base to its IaaS platform through measures such as cut-rate pricing and strong SLAs on availability, performance and manageability. Continue Reading
-
News
29 Apr 2020
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure adds new AMD EPYC instances
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure has boosted its support for mission-critical workloads with new options based on AMD's second-generation EPYC processors. Continue Reading
-
News
22 Apr 2020
Google Anthos multi-cloud platform now GA on AWS
Kubernetes-based Anthos is generally available on AWS, giving customers the ability to manage workloads there, as well as across Google Cloud and on-premises environments. Continue Reading
-
Tip
17 Apr 2020
The future of quantum computing in the cloud
Quantum computing is the latest technology to catch the eyes of developers and cloud providers like AWS and Microsoft, but analysts predict it could still be years away from practical use. Continue Reading
-
Feature
02 Apr 2020
5 tips that can lead to Azure cloud management success
Many factors go into managing Azure resources, and they vary based on a company's needs. Explore five pieces to the larger cloud management puzzle to optimize your environment. Continue Reading
-
Feature
27 Mar 2020
7 Google Cloud database options to free up your IT team
Moving data to a cloud database is an effective way to optimize cost and performance for applications. Review seven of Google's database services and decide if one is right for you. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
09 Mar 2020
The 2020 cloud acquisitions AWS, Microsoft and Google should make
The major cloud providers offer a wide range of services, but they're far from perfect. Here are the 2020 acquisitions AWS, Microsoft and Google should make to shore up their platforms. Continue Reading
-
Feature
28 Feb 2020
Get to know the core Oracle IaaS offerings
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure may not be for everyone, but it does have its appeal for certain workloads. Learn about the core IaaS tools that act as the service's foundation. Continue Reading
-
Feature
26 Feb 2020
Learn how to negotiate your way to Azure cost savings
Discover how to counter Microsoft's sales playbook. ClearEdge Partners licensing specialist Steve Paradis explains how to navigate your next negotiation and get the best price for Azure. Continue Reading
-
Feature
24 Feb 2020
Get to know cloud IoT services on AWS, Azure and Google Cloud
Use this rundown of IoT offerings from AWS, Microsoft and Google to help decide which best suits your needs for collecting, processing and analyzing device data in the cloud. Continue Reading
-
Tip
21 Feb 2020
Compare web and mobile testing tools from AWS, Microsoft and Google
Compare and contrast the mobile testing tools from the big three cloud vendors -- AWS Device Farm, Google Firebase Test Lab and Microsoft Visual Studio App Center Test. Continue Reading
-
Feature
20 Feb 2020
Cloud conferences to watch out for in 2020
Cloud professionals need to keep up with the latest strategies. If you're looking to attend a few cloud conferences in 2020, these are the ones worth packing your bags for. Continue Reading
-
News
14 Feb 2020
Google adds single-tenant cloud options to court enterprises
Google Cloud has added more features to its single-tenant cloud deployment option, such as live migration for Windows BYOL scenarios, that cater to the needs of certain workloads. Continue Reading
-
Tip
11 Feb 2020
Compare cloud migration services for data and server needs
A cloud migration can be stressful, especially when it comes to getting started. Services are available to assist with the task, so here's where to turn. Continue Reading
-
Feature
29 Jan 2020
Establish cloud visibility with Azure monitoring tools
Learn about the various monitoring services available on the Azure cloud platform. Use these tools for application performance metrics, data analytics and other insights. Continue Reading
-
Feature
28 Jan 2020
Learn best practices for cloud automation on Microsoft Azure
Check out these best practices for workload automation on Microsoft Azure. Review the tools and techniques that can free your IT team to focus on more important responsibilities. Continue Reading
-
News
16 Jan 2020
Google Cloud support premium tier woos enterprise customers
Google Cloud has rolled out a new Premium Support offering aimed at deep-pocketed enterprises with larger, more complex implementations. Experts say the timing is right. Continue Reading
-
Tip
15 Jan 2020
Confidential computing promises secure cloud apps
Adopt confidential computing to protect sensitive data in the cloud. Learn the basics about these technologies and evaluate offerings from AWS, Google, Microsoft and others. Continue Reading
-
News
14 Jan 2020
Google buys AppSheet for low-code app development
Google has bought AppSheet, maker of a low-code platform that line-of-business employees can use to create cross-platform mobile applications. Continue Reading
-
News
14 Jan 2020
IBM Power Systems lands on Google Cloud
Google Cloud has added IBM Power Systems to its lineup of instance types. It's available via monthly subscription and could appeal to customers moving SAP apps onto the cloud. Continue Reading
-
Tip
14 Jan 2020
Niche cloud providers take on market giants
Choose the cloud that best fits your enterprise's needs. While one of the Big Three may seem like the most logical choice, a niche vendor might actually serve your needs better. Continue Reading
-
News
10 Jan 2020
Forbes' Google Cloud migration rooted in trust, cost savings
Forbes has moved its publishing operations to Google Cloud for continued growth, better audience engagement and streamlined operations. Forbes Chief Digital Officer Salah Zalatimo explains why. Continue Reading
-
Tip
08 Jan 2020
AWS Outposts vs. Azure Stack vs. HCI
See how AWS Outposts vs. Microsoft Azure Stack hybrid cloud offerings work and where they can and cannot take the place of traditional hyper-converged infrastructures. Continue Reading
-
Tip
31 Dec 2019
Using the Windows Admin Center Azure services feature
Microsoft wants you to add more of its Azure cloud services to your data center by using its new administrative tool to streamline the setup process. Continue Reading
-
Feature
24 Dec 2019
Get the lowdown on these 4 Google Cloud management services
Google Cloud Platform offers numerous tools to manage and deploy resources -- each with its own specific focus. Learn about these four services before you get started on Google Cloud. Continue Reading
-
Feature
23 Dec 2019
PowerShell tutorials capture attention of admins in 2019
Interest in automation continues to trend upward for administrators of Windows systems, particularly when it involves PowerShell. Continue Reading
-
Tip
23 Dec 2019
It's time to implement a cloud data retention policy
While cloud storage is cheap, that doesn't mean you should keep data forever. There are four main factors to consider before you put your data in cold storage and throw away the key. Continue Reading
-
Feature
20 Dec 2019
Top cloud news of 2019 from AWS, Microsoft, Google and Oracle
It's been quite a year for the major cloud providers, with product releases, lawsuits, layoffs and IT competitions. Review the biggest news stories of 2019 to see how 2020 will shape up. Continue Reading
-
Quiz
19 Dec 2019
Quiz yourself on the top cloud acquisitions of 2019
Enterprise needs constantly evolve, so cloud providers must keep their offerings fresh, often through acquisitions. Do you know the biggest buys from 2019? Let's see. Continue Reading
-
Tip
17 Dec 2019
Use these 8 tools to deploy microservices on Azure
IT teams deploy microservices to quickly build and scale apps, but it can get complicated fast. Check out these Microsoft Azure tools and best practices to get started the right way. Continue Reading
-
News
12 Dec 2019
Cisco's Silicon One networking chip targets cloud data centers
Cisco's Silicon One chip launch demonstrates a willingness to embrace white box routers in the hyperscale data centers of cloud providers. Continue Reading
-
Tip
09 Dec 2019
Get started with Azure tags
The more Azure resources an organization consumes, the harder it becomes to track those resources. Proper tagging can help manage and automate workloads, as well as control costs. Continue Reading
-
Tip
02 Dec 2019
Review these Azure Service Bus best practices
When applications talk, you need to listen. Learn about Microsoft's cloud messaging service, its main features, best practices to follow and practical applications. Continue Reading
-
Feature
27 Nov 2019
Microsoft's history and future strategy beyond 2020
Microsoft's history over the past 20 years is marked by the pivot from closed software models to support for open source and cloud. Quantum computing will shape the next decades. Continue Reading