91³Ô¹ÏÍø

Cloud Computing Architecture: Designing the Optimal Environment

Venkata Ravella

Sep 15, 2022 / 4 min read

Synopsys Cloud

Unlimited access to EDA software licenses on-demand

Cloud computing is undeniably here to stay. The technology has given a new shape to a myriad of businesses through its on-demand services, opening scope for innovative and optimal ways to share, deploy, and reduce time to production. Regardless of their size, all organizations that have made the switch to cloud computing benefit from the ability to use these services on demand and at the appropriate scale to support one or more of their business segments.

A strong cloud computing architecture is essential for any business interested in establishing its applications or use cases in the cloud. In this article, we delve into what exactly a cloud computing architecture is. We also examine its structural components and how they can be leveraged for your business.

What is Cloud Computing Architecture?

Cloud computing architecture provides a comprehensive platform that addresses how users can optimally access applications and data in the cloud securely from anywhere anytime. A variety of components and subcomponents are required to build this platform.

Cloud computing architecture is split into two parts: front-end and back-end. Although this is most relevant for designing application as a service, similar concepts also apply when designing a platform for HPC computations.The front-end consists of various client-side applications and access mechanisms, while the back-end consists of servers, storage, cloud-based delivery methods, and the network (internet, intranet, intercloud).

 

Front End

In an HPC environment, the front end is designed to serve as an interface for connecting, managing, and accessing all the compute and storage required. For an application, GUI represents and provides services the application is designed for. 

 

Back End

The backend half of cloud computing architecture is responsible for all infrastructure and services the frontend is designed to use. The backend is also responsible for monitoring and governance. Backend services include data storage servers, virtualization software, traffic control mechanisms, deployment models, and other supporting systems.

Benefits of Well Designed Cloud Computing Architecture

Cloud computing architecture requires an intelligent design to support businesses in a variety of methods. It solves latency issues and improves data processing requirements, all while reducing IT operating costs and increasing access to data and digital tools for management. Cloud computing architecture can also help businesses dynamically scale their cloud resources depending on need.

Utilizing cloud computing architecture allows you to improve your disaster recovery and security. It also enables remote working and encourages team collaboration. With cloud computing architecture, you can automatically update services, simplifying overall cloud computing systems. Its flexibility feature provides businesses with a competitive advantage and increases user accessibility and ease of use.

Cloud Computing Architecture Components

Cloud computing architecture includes multiple subcomponents. The following is a rundown of each:

  • The hypervisor is a virtual machine that provides every user with Virtual Operating Platforms. It primarily divides and allocates resources while managing guest operating systems in the cloud.
  • Management software monitors cloud applications using a variety of strategies to increase cloud performance. Operations include contingency plans, compliance auditing, and management of overseeing disasters. 
  • Deployment software consists of the necessary installations and configurations required for running cloud services. Each deployment of a cloud service requires deployment software. Deployment can be accomplished using a Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), or Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS).
  • The network connects to both the front-end and the back-end. It helps users connect and customize routes and protocols for accessing data. It consists of a virtual service hosted on the cloud computing platform. The network should ensure flexibility, security, and cost-efficiency. 
  • An application, in a back-end context, refers to the platform or software that clients access. It provides a service based on requirements.
  • A service in the backend refers to SaaS, PaaS, or IaaS, also depending on client requirements.
  • Management is the monitoring of backend components like services, storage, applications, and infrastructure.
  • Infrastructure in a cloud computing architecture backend context is the hardware and software components of the cloud. It includes servers, storage, network devices, and virtualization software.

Cloud computing architecture, at its core, creates an environment for businesses to safely develop applications and utilize a variety of cloud services based on individual needs.

Synopsys, EDA, and the Cloud

Synopsys is the industry¡¯s largest provider of electronic design automation (EDA) technology used in the design and verification of semiconductor devices, or chips. With Synopsys Cloud, we¡¯re taking EDA to new heights, combining the availability of advanced compute and storage infrastructure with unlimited access to EDA software licenses on-demand so you can focus on what you do best ¨C designing chips, faster. Delivering cloud-native EDA tools and pre-optimized hardware platforms, an extremely flexible business model, and a modern customer experience, Synopsys has reimagined the future of chip design on the cloud, without disrupting proven workflows.

 

Take a Test Drive!

Synopsys technology drives innovations that change how people work and play using high-performance silicon chips. Let Synopsys power your innovation journey with cloud-based EDA tools. Sign up to try Synopsys Cloud for free!


About The Author

Venkata Ravella is vice president of Information Technology at Synopsys, where he leads a world-class IT infrastructure team that has built large-scale engineering and business infrastructure on private and public clouds. Over the last 25+ years, he has held various roles in IT, with the majority of his time focused on engineering environment and infrastructure. He has in-depth experience building high-performing engineering environments, both on-prem and in-cloud, with an emphasis on reliability, scalability, and security at their core.

Continue Reading