In the last decade, cloud computing has become a normal part of every business’ operations. But debates are still ongoing about which model is best. It can be particularly difficult to choose between hybrid and multi-cloud, due to the many similarities these environments share. But while they may look like the same thing, they are quite different. Each offers compelling benefits, and careful consideration will be essential to ensure you have chosen the right one.
So what exactly is the difference between hybrid cloud vs multi-cloud? And which one should your business commit to?
What is a Hybrid Cloud?
A hybrid cloud strategy combines public and private clouds together, sometimes adding on-premises infrastructure into the mix. This setup allows your business to seamlessly move workloads between environments, depending on your needs in a given moment. You might, for example, keep sensitive data in the private cloud for added security while storing less critical information on the public cloud.
Key benefits of a hybrid cloud strategy include:
- Greater flexibility to use whichever environment best addresses each specific need.
- Stronger security, due to the ability to store sensitive data in a more protected location.
- More control over the overall IT infrastructure, while still enjoying the benefits of the cloud.
- Reduced capital expenditure when responding to sudden changes within the business environment.
What is Multi-Cloud Architecture?
Often confused with hybrid cloud, multi-cloud architecture is the use of services from two or more providers. While this can include a mixture of private and public cloud services, it doesn’t have to – two public clouds, or two private ones, will still count. The important element here is the use of more than one provider. Multi-cloud provides more choice and additional redundancies, by ensuring your operations are never reliant on just one cloud provider.
Key benefits of multi-cloud architecture include:
- The ability to avoid vendor lock-in.
- Improved redundancy and disaster recovery.
- Better cost-efficiency, by allowing more flexibility to scale as needed.
- The ability to choose only the best services from each provider.
Choosing the Best Cloud Environment for Your Business: Important Considerations
Choosing between a multi-cloud and hybrid cloud approach will require you to carefully assess your needs. Consider these areas:
Business Characteristics
- What is your size and industry?
- Are workloads relatively static, or do they often scale rapidly?
- What are your plans for future growth?
Compliance and Security
- What are your compliance requirements?
- What is your current compliance status? Are you falling short of the mark, or fully compliant?
- What are your existing security measures?
IT Complexity
- What does your current IT infrastructure look like?
- Which gaps will you be using the cloud to address?
- How will the cloud integrate with your existing technology? Do you anticipate any difficulties?
Cost Efficiency
- What is your budget?
- Do you have, or are you able to implement, strong cloud cost management practices?
- Is there concern about cloud providers raising prices?
Multi-Cloud vs Hybrid Cloud: Which is Best?
Using the information you collected, consider each of the following:
Costs
Both cloud models allow you to adjust services to your needs. However, cost management is more complex when using multiple vendors at once. Without proper strategies, you’re more likely to overpay for unnecessary services without realising it.
Security and Compliance
Multi-cloud provides no guarantee of stronger security or regulatory compliance, as this will depend on the precise services you choose. A hybrid cloud strategy inherently combines public cloud with more secure private or on-premises infrastructure.
Flexibility
Both models provide additional flexibility over using a single cloud service. But they do this in different ways. Hybrid cloud allows you to quickly shift workloads between public, private, and on-premises infrastructure, while multi-cloud makes it possible to switch between vendors and avoid lock-in.
Business Continuity
Hybrid cloud may allow you to shift data and workloads from one environment to another during a crisis, but if you only use one cloud service provider you’re still vulnerable to issues on their end. Multi-cloud ensures that even if one provider goes offline, you can continue as normal.
Combining Models
The beautiful thing about hybrid cloud and multi-cloud is that they’re not mutually exclusive. It is possible to combine both into one cohesive strategy (for instance, by using one private cloud and one public cloud from different vendors). If you find it difficult to choose between the two, this might be the right strategy. Experiment, mixing and matching elements of both, until you find the perfect fit.
Still can’t make up your mind? Ask an expert for help
Choose the Right Cloud Strategy With Expert Guidance
The cloud is rarely one-size-fits-all. Choosing the right model is essential to ensure that you can leverage the full benefits while minimising the disadvantages. By examining each one, and comparing it against your unique business needs, you’ll have all the information you need to make the best decision possible.
National IT has the expertise you need to make smart cloud decisions. We understand the unique challenges it introduces, and how to overcome them with ease. If you need more information about using the cloud, discover our ultimate guide now.