A hybrid cloud integrates private and public cloud environments to allow data and applications to be shared between them. Organizations typically use a hybrid cloud to combine the scalability and flexibility of public cloud services with the security and control of private cloud infrastructure. This setup enables businesses to leverage both cloud types based on their specific needs, such as running sensitive workloads on-premises while using public cloud resources for less critical tasks or burst computing.
A good example of a hybrid cloud is a retail company that maintains its sensitive customer data and core business applications in a private cloud hosted on-premises or in a dedicated data center. Simultaneously, the company uses a public cloud service like AWS or Azure to handle spikes in customer transactions during sales events. This allows the retailer to scale resources dynamically while maintaining stringent control over critical data and operations.
The key difference between a cloud and a hybrid cloud lies in their infrastructure and deployment model. A cloud refers to the delivery of computing services—such as storage, databases, and servers—over the internet, typically offered by third-party providers like AWS or Google Cloud. In contrast, a hybrid cloud combines multiple cloud environments (public and private) with orchestration between them to create a unified, flexible computing environment. A hybrid cloud strategy allows organizations to optimize workload placement, enhance data security, and maintain compliance with specific regulatory requirements.
The main advantage of using a hybrid cloud is its flexibility and ability to balance between the benefits of public and private clouds. Organizations can deploy workloads where it makes the most sense based on factors such as performance requirements, data sensitivity, compliance regulations, and cost considerations. This flexibility enables businesses to scale resources dynamically, manage peak workloads efficiently, and maintain control over sensitive data, all while optimizing costs.
In AWS, a hybrid cloud setup typically involves integrating AWS services with on-premises infrastructure using AWS hybrid cloud solutions. This can include AWS Outposts, which extends AWS infrastructure and services to customers’ on-premises environments, allowing them to run AWS compute and storage services locally. AWS also offers services like AWS Direct Connect, which establishes a dedicated network connection between an organization’s data center and AWS, ensuring secure and reliable access to AWS services while maintaining data sovereignty and compliance requirements.