Cloud infrastructure design and management
Cloud computing delivers numerous benefits, but only if an IT organization is prepared to manage a cloud environment. Proper cloud infrastructure design and management entails an understanding of automation, orchestration, monitoring, compliance, pricing, availability, and other key elements of cloud services.
Top Stories
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Tip
06 Dec 2024
How to prepare for long-lasting cloud outages
Cloud outages are more than a technical inconvenience -- they can threaten business continuity, customer satisfaction, security and innovation. Will your business survive one? Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Dec 2024
Understanding SaaS migration benefits and best practices
Consider the four common approaches to single-tenant and multi-tenant SaaS migration and get a good grasp on tradeoffs and challenges before making a move. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Dec 2024
5 examples of cloud migration success stories to learn from
Senior executives from Experian and TCW explain why and how they moved to the cloud. Plus: case-study highlights from Johnson & Johnson, Unilever and Capital One. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Dec 2024
The 7 R's of cloud migration: How to choose the right method
Gartner's easy-to-remember model summarizing cloud migration options, later expanded by AWS, neatly captures the choices. Here are the benefits and drawbacks of each. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Dec 2024
Linux text editor tips for cloud admins using Vim and Nano
Vim and Nano are common Linux text editors that can help cloud admins manage cloud-based Linux VMs. While the tools might seem overwhelming, a few basic skills can go a long way. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Dec 2024
On-premises-to-cloud migration: Top methods and tools to use
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
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Tip
03 Dec 2024
11 cloud migration benefits to know before making the move
The cloud's benefits are well established, but it's still useful to keep the biggest ones in mind before going through the trouble of moving on-premises systems to the cloud. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Nov 2024
What is cloud testing? An introduction to testing in the cloud
Cloud testing is the process of using the cloud computing resources of a third-party service provider to test software applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Nov 2024
Cloud visibility: Definition, importance and challenges
Cloud visibility is a company's ability to monitor, track and gain insight into its cloud infrastructure and resources. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Nov 2024
What is distributed cloud and how does it work?
Distributed cloud is public cloud -- any third-party cloud computing service offered over public internet -- deployed in more than one location, ideally in proximity to whoever or whatever wants to access it. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Nov 2024
What is a cloud-native application?
A cloud-native application is a program that is designed for a cloud computing architecture. These applications are run and hosted in the cloud and are designed to capitalize on the inherent characteristics of a cloud computing software delivery model. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Nov 2024
What is a cloud server?
A cloud server is a virtual server that operates in a cloud computing environment and makes its resources accessible to users remotely over a network. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Nov 2024
12-step checklist for cloud migration success
Ready to move your on-premises apps to the cloud? From rehosting vs. redesigning to testing and monitoring, follow these key steps for a successful cloud migration. Continue Reading
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News
19 Nov 2024
Microsoft Launches Azure Local for Hybrid Cloud, edge uses
Along with Azure Local, Microsoft launched a migration tool for enterprises that want to ditch their VMware by Broadcom VMs. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Nov 2024
What is public cloud? A definition and in-depth guide
A public cloud is a third-party managed platform that uses the standard cloud computing model to make resources, applications and services available on demand to remote users around the world. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Nov 2024
How to build a business case for cloud migration
Successful cloud migrations start with a solid business plan that details the costs, benefits, risks and challenges to key stakeholders and decision-makers. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Nov 2024
10 common issues when creating a private cloud
Organizations that want to create a private cloud must prepare for a multitude of issues, including security, compliance, staff expertise and cost. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Nov 2024
6 cloud migration challenges to prepare for and overcome
A cloud migration can bring lots of risks, unexpected costs and inconveniences. You can minimize or avoid them with thorough assessment, planning and training. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Nov 2024
Top 25 cloud computing skills to boost your career in 2025
As cloud adoption increases, so too does the need for IT experts with cloud computing skills. Explore these 25 key skills to help you on your journey. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Nov 2024
The future of cloud computing: Top trends and predictions
Expect GenAI, IoT, cloud-native, edge computing, power-hungry data centers, data-hungry LLMs, FinOps and privacy laws to shape public cloud's future as a viable service model. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
30 Oct 2024
How to optimize Azure VMs for performance and cost savings
Learn how to reduce the monthly cloud bill from Microsoft while, in some cases, also improving Azure workloads performance by using a storage pooling technique. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Oct 2024
Top 12 cloud computing careers of 2025 and how to get started
Cloud computing touches many aspects of modern life, and cloud professionals are in demand. See the many positions, salaries and skills needed to launch a cloud computing career. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Oct 2024
10 key characteristics of cloud computing
Evaluate how these 10 characteristics of cloud computing, such as on-demand self-service and broad network access, can help you become a more nimble and cost-effective business. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Oct 2024
What is cloud compliance and why is it important?
Cloud compliance ensures the safe and secure use and storage of data through strict adherence to existing cloud computing rules and guidelines, including applicable federal or international laws and regulatory compliance, as well as industry frameworks and best practices. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Oct 2024
What is cloud architecture? Design and implementation
Cloud architecture is how infrastructure components are connected and configured to create a suitable cloud computing environment for the performance, reliability and scalability needed to host user workloads and data. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Oct 2024
AI in cloud computing: Benefits and concerns
Businesses see public cloud as the primary vehicle for delivering generative AI's benefits in productivity, operational efficiency and workflow automation, but challenges remain. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Oct 2024
What is cloud sprawl?
Cloud sprawl is the uncontrolled proliferation of an organization's cloud instances, services or providers. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Oct 2024
What is hyperscale cloud? Computing and data center uses explained
A hyperscale cloud is an extensive, scalable cloud computing operation that employs numerous hyperscale data centers. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Oct 2024
Sustainability and ESG glossary: 52 terms to know
Sustainable strategies require basic understanding of the fundamentals. Business leaders and IT teams can benefit from this list of essential sustainability terms and ESG concepts. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Oct 2024
What is multi-cloud? Definition, pros and cons
Multi-cloud is an approach to cloud computing that involves combining two or more cloud services from different providers. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
21 Oct 2024
How to create an EC2 instance using PowerShell
PowerShell has practical integrations that provide users with cross-platform capabilities. Get to know prerequisites and resources to create an EC2 instance using PowerShell. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Oct 2024
How to implement an effective cloud governance framework
To ensure their cloud environments deliver expected benefits while keeping costs and risks under control, organizations need a process for adhering to key cloud governance pillars. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Oct 2024
5 open source cloud monitoring tools to consider
IT teams need visibility into their cloud environments. If your team wants more than its cloud providers offer, see if an open source monitoring tool is a better fit. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Oct 2024
Public vs. private vs. hybrid cloud: Key differences explained
Public, private and hybrid clouds share similarities, but their differences in cost, control, flexibility, scalability and services determine which model best meets business goals. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Oct 2024
Understand AWS Regions vs. Availability Zones
It's easy to forget about data centers when you run workloads in the cloud. Learn how AWS Regions and Availability Zones differ, and how they affect cloud costs and configurations. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Oct 2024
Cloud licensing explained: What businesses need to know
Businesses vacating the premises and setting up their data and applications in a distributed environment must consider cloud licensing's options, advantages and disadvantages. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Oct 2024
How to plan a cloud strategy: Complete guide and template
A cloud strategy document is a mission statement, not a design document. It should capture the what and why of a company's cloud strategy, without delving into the minutiae of how. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Oct 2024
14 top multi-cloud management platforms for 2025
Dig into the benefits -- and drawbacks -- of the top tools and services designed to help enterprises manage their hybrid and multi-cloud environments Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Oct 2024
What is contact center as a service (CCaaS)?
Contact center as a service (CCaaS) is a framework that combines contact center hosting principles and cloud-based contact center infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Oct 2024
How a zero-based approach can improve your cloud budget
Traditional budgeting strategies have IT teams scratching their heads about what costs to cut next. Could a zero-based approach to cloud budgeting shift this mindset? Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Oct 2024
What is cloud infrastructure?
Cloud infrastructure refers to the hardware and software components -- such as servers, storage, networking, virtualization software, services and management tools -- that support the computing requirements of a cloud computing model. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Oct 2024
What is cloud consulting? Everything you should know
Cloud consulting assists organizations with the complexity of cloud computing including building, deploying, managing and securing applications and infrastructure in the cloud. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Sep 2024
Will Windows Server 2025 spark VMware migrations?
Can Microsoft capitalize on VMware customer concerns by touting enhancements to its next version of Windows Server along with its cloud and hyperconverged infrastructure options? Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Sep 2024
What is cloud management? Definition, benefits and guide
Cloud management refers to the exercise of control over public, private or hybrid cloud infrastructure resources and services. Continue Reading
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News
23 Sep 2024
AI drives data center, energy race by Microsoft, others
Microsoft's latest moves to secure electricity and more data centers tackle two problems faced by major cloud providers: insufficient power and space to meet AI demands. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Sep 2024
Is cloud repatriation the only answer?
Cloud repatriation should be a last resort, not a repudiation of the cloud. Do you know how to fully optimize cloud workloads to avoid costly in-house investment? Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Sep 2024
What is cloud economics?
Cloud economics analyzes the total cost of ownership, benefits of cloud services and the overall computing costs in an enterprise environment, focusing on the economic principles driving these factors. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Sep 2024
9 cloud cost management tools you should know about
There's a whole category of tools dedicated to managing cloud costs. Here's how they optimize cloud resources and improve bottom lines, plus descriptions of nine of the best ones. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Sep 2024
16 metrics that matter in cloud performance monitoring
Compute cost and requests per minute are just two of the metrics that keep cloud performance humming. Here's how cloud metrics differ from on-premises, plus advice on buying tools. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Sep 2024
How to build a cloud capacity management plan
Running workloads in the cloud gives an organization access to unlimited resources. That's a good thing, but only if the IT team adopts good capacity planning practices. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Sep 2024
Cloud change management: What you need to plan for
Traditional change management and frameworks like ITIL are usually too slow and bureaucratic. You need to adapt them for the speed, and agility -- and risks -- of the cloud. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Sep 2024
What is cloud repatriation and what are the leading causes?
Cloud repatriation refers to the practice of relocating public cloud applications to different locations, most often on premises and for financial, performance and regulatory reasons. Continue Reading
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News
10 Sep 2024
AWS joins Microsoft, Google Cloud in offering Oracle database
AWS joined Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud in offering the Oracle Database, an indication that enterprises want to use Oracle alongside the cloud providers' AI services. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Sep 2024
6 FinOps KPIs and metrics to optimize cloud expenditures
IT leaders who adopt FinOps metrics can identify underutilized resources, improve cost allocation and build a tighter connection between cloud investment and business value. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Sep 2024
What is shared responsibility model?
A shared responsibility model is a cloud security framework that dictates the security obligations of a cloud computing provider and its users to ensure accountability. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Sep 2024
FinOps tools to consider for your organization
FinOps tools help organizations optimize cloud spending and use. Review the different native and third-party options to find the best fit for your needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Sep 2024
What is a cloud architect and how do you become one?
A cloud architect is an IT professional who is responsible for overseeing a company's cloud computing strategy. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Sep 2024
Understanding the role of AI in cloud computing
AI is bringing previously unimagined capabilities in automation, optimization and predictive analytics to cloud management while posing new challenges for IT departments. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Sep 2024
What is cloud application performance management (cloud APM)?
Cloud application performance management (cloud APM) is the process of monitoring resources that support software application performance in public cloud, private cloud and hybrid cloud environments. It takes actions to resolve issues and maintain optimal performance. Continue Reading
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Opinion
04 Sep 2024
Can VMware's private cloud spur the demise of siloed tech?
The private-cloud-centric future VMware presents could benefit enterprises if it continues to innovate and deliver an integrated, full-stack private cloud its customers want. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Sep 2024
What is FinOps?
FinOps -- a combination of the terms finance and DevOps -- is a framework for managing operational costs across an organization, often in conjunction with cloud computing. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Sep 2024
FinOps best practices to fully optimize your cloud costs
While there's no one-size-fits-all approach to a FinOps initiative, these established principles and practices get you started on the right path. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Aug 2024
Why observability is important in multi-cloud environments
Increased use of multi-cloud environments is creating a need for specialized observability methods and tools for tracking and measuring cloud performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Aug 2024
What is cloud elasticity?
Cloud elasticity is the ability, in real time, to increase or decrease cloud computing resources, such as central processing unit (CPU) power, memory and storage capacity, as well as input and output bandwidth, to meet unexpected changes in online traffic. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Aug 2024
How to subnet in cloud network environments
Cloud and on-premises subnets use IP ranges, subnet masks or prefixes, and security policies. But cloud subnets are simpler to set up, while on-prem configuration is still manual. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Aug 2024
Should I outsource FinOps or build my own team?
FinOps strategies can help enterprises manage cloud costs and monitor cloud usage patterns. But is it better to outsource or build a FinOps team in-house? Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Aug 2024
What is cloud cost optimization? 16 best practices to embrace
Cloud pricing is complex, and there are lots of ways to waste money on services you don't need. Here's how to ensure you have just the right amount of cloud resources. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Aug 2024
What is an AWS landing zone?
An AWS landing zone is a scalable, secure Amazon Web Services environment that enables AWS users and organizations to launch and deploy workloads and applications in the AWS cloud. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Aug 2024
Different types of cloud load balancing and algorithms
Learn how load balancing in the cloud differs from a traditional network traffic distribution, and explore services from AWS, Google and Microsoft. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Aug 2024
What is cloud automation?
Cloud automation is a broad term that refers to processes and tools that reduce or eliminate manual efforts used to provision and manage cloud computing workloads and services. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Aug 2024
Compare the 3 types of private cloud
The different types of private cloud offer varying levels of control, customization and convenience. These factors affect the benefits, challenges and use cases for each model. Continue Reading
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Video
08 Aug 2024
An explanation of serverless computing
Serverless computing simplifies app development by eliminating server management, streamlining coding for cloud platforms. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Aug 2024
6 best practices to manage private cloud costs
Private cloud doesn't have to break the bank. Use these best practices to implement an intentional cost management strategy that meets private cloud's unique challenges. Continue Reading
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Video
06 Aug 2024
An explanation of private cloud
Private clouds cater to a single organization, offering enhanced security and compliance, unlike multi-tenant public clouds. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jul 2024
7 steps to migrate ECM systems to the cloud
Enterprise content management systems can become outdated, prompting a migration to cloud-based options. Follow these seven steps to ensure a smooth migration. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jul 2024
What is AWS PrivateLink?
AWS PrivateLink is a networking feature from Amazon Web Services (AWS) that eases and secures connectivity between AWS Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs) and other services while protecting data from exposure to the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jul 2024
What are availability zones?
Availability zones (AZs) are isolated or separated data centers located within specific regions in which public cloud services originate and operate. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jul 2024
What is infrastructure as a service (IaaS)?
Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) is a form of cloud computing that provides virtualized computing resources over the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jul 2024
What is an Amazon EC2 Instance? Types, features and pricing
An Amazon EC2 instance is a virtual server in Amazon's Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) scalable compute platform for running applications on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jul 2024
Explore options for FinOps certifications and training
Receiving a FinOps certification helps individuals develop their cloud financial management skills. Discover training and certification options that can help your resume stand out. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
24 Jul 2024
Boost Exchange Online automation with Azure Functions
Admins can use the event-driven functionality in Microsoft's serverless offering and build event-driven workflows for a more efficient management approach. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jul 2024
Aviatrix CEO pitches cloud networking to 'underserved buyer'
Doug Merritt has been in the multi-cloud networking business for a year, but still draws on his experience as CEO of Splunk to steer Aviatrix toward a new phase of growth. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
15 Jul 2024
Manage Microsoft 365 users and groups with Azure Functions
This Microsoft service performs large-scale admin jobs and also automatically reacts to certain conditions to execute predefined tasks with speed and consistency. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Jul 2024
6 tips to plan a digital transformation budget
Formulating budgets for digital transformation projects is fraught with complexities, expectations and unknowns that differentiate it from traditional IT and business planning. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jun 2024
Broadcom faces challenges with latest VMware releases
CIOs are taking a hard look at the VMware portfolio as the number of alternatives rises in the hybrid cloud infrastructure market. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jun 2024
What is cloud computing? Types, examples and benefits
Cloud computing is a general term for the delivery of hosted computing services and IT resources over the internet with pay-as-you-go pricing. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jun 2024
What is multi-tenancy (multi-tenant architecture)?
Multi-tenancy is an architecture in which a single instance of a software application serves multiple customers. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jun 2024
HPE GreenLake adds GenAI capabilities as on-premises PaaS
HPE GreenLake debuts a new PaaS offering for enterprise GenAI development, co-created with Nvidia. HPE also updated OpsRamp and server hardware refreshes for AI workloads. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jun 2024
HPE to offer KVM virtualization for GreenLake private cloud
HPE debuts its virtualization capability for HPE Private Cloud later this year as an integrated GreenLake alternative to third-party vendors such as VMware, Nutanix or Red Hat. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jun 2024
cloud security
Cloud security, also known as 'cloud computing security,' is a set of policies, practices and controls deployed to protect cloud-based data, applications and infrastructure from cyberattacks and cyberthreats. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jun 2024
Azure Functions overview: A guide for Microsoft admins
With Azure Functions, admins can tap into advanced automation, enjoy enhanced security controls and create highly customized workflows catered to the organization's needs. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 May 2024
12 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
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News
14 May 2024
VMware Cloud on AWS now sold exclusively by Broadcom
Broadcom discontinues AWS as a reseller of VMware Cloud on AWS, further evidence that it wants hands-on control of how the VM technology is sold, supported and distributed. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 May 2024
AWS Reserved Instances
AWS Reserved Instances (RIs) refer to compute capacity that can be reserved on Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2) and Amazon Relational Database Service (Amazon RDS) to take advantage of discounted pricing. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 May 2024
How to evaluate cloud certification training
Certifications and training courses help IT pros acquire the knowledge and skills to succeed in cloud. Learn what to look for in courses and how to choose the right program. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 May 2024
Compare NoSQL database types in the cloud
NoSQL systems are increasingly common in the cloud. Read about the different types of NoSQL databases that are available from major cloud providers and other vendors. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Apr 2024
XaaS (anything as a service)
XaaS is a collective term that refers to the delivery of anything as a service. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Apr 2024
6 best practices for a cloud-first strategy
Adopting a cloud-first strategy requires careful consideration to ensure affordability and optimal performance. Implement a successful strategy by following best practices. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Apr 2024
Troubleshooting 7 common errors in AWS CloudFormation
Errors can occur when an AWS developer builds a CloudFormation template, launches a stack or rolls back an update. Prevent and address common errors by following best practices. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Apr 2024
Why GenAI infrastructure optimization starts with the network
GenAI deployment requires optimized infrastructure. The networking aspects, such as workload placement and the type of deployment model, could determine GenAI performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Apr 2024
10 cloud vulnerabilities that can cripple your environment
Enterprises can be devastated by security-related weaknesses or flaws in their cloud environments. Find out where you are most vulnerable before an attacker comes knocking. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Apr 2024
cloud browser
A cloud browser is a cloud-based combination of a web browser application with a virtualized container that implements the concept of remote browser isolation. Continue Reading