Cloud Computing

Cloud computing creates a fluid pool of computer resources across data centers that enables users to access stored data and applications on an as-needed basis. Cloud computing networks enable the movement of those resources and connects users to the available resources regardless of their location.

For example, when you plug in a powered device, you don’t worry about what is going on behind the wall’s electrical outlet. You just know that you have the necessary electricity to operate your device. In a similar fashion, cloud computing is computing capability that is infinitely available and flexible. This feature ensures that all of your information technology needs are met without you needing to know what is going on in the cloud.

To achieve an ideal computing environment, cloud computing includes the following features as defined by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST):

• On-Demand Self-Service – you can unilaterally provision your computing capabilities, such as server time and network storage, automatically without requiring human interaction with each service’s provider.
• Broad Network Access – through the network, you can access the capabilities to operate devices such as mobile phones, laptops, and PDAs on thin or thick client platforms.
• Resource Pooling – providers serve multiple consumers by pooling their resources (storage, processing, memory, network bandwidth, and virtual machines) using a multi-tenant model with different physical and virtual resources. These resources are dynamically assigned and reassigned according to consumer needs. While you don’t determine the exact location of the resources, you can specify the location at a higher level of abstraction (e.g., country, state, or datacenter).
• Rapid Elasticity – this provisions your computer capabilities rapidly and elastically to quickly get scaled out, rapidly released, and scaled in. In some cases, this occurs automatically. The provisioning capabilities are unlimited. You can also purchase any quantity anytime.
• Measured Service – cloud systems automatically control and optimize your resource usage. This occurs by leveraging a metering capability at a level of abstraction that is appropriate to the type of service (e.g., storage, processing, bandwidth, and active user accounts). You can monitor, control, and report provisioning as long as their is transparancy for both the provider and consumer.

With cloud computing one size does not fit all. Cloud computing comes in three different types, public cloud offerings, private cloud, or a hybrid of both. Like all new technology, there is a learning curve and a labyrinth of techniques. Sigma Technology will navigate you through that maze to the right cloud solution that fits your needs.

Converged Infrastructure – The building blocks of a Private Cloud

Many businesses still spend more than 60 percent of their IT budgets on maintenance and operations rather than innovation. This is not a favorable equation for businesses facing an unpredictable future. According to a recent survey, a majority of medium and large organizations worldwide believe that business cycles will remain uncertain in the coming years.

A new vision of IT is here to help you turnaround that budget expenditure ratio. You can provide the innovation and flexibility required to thrive in a challenging economy by building the right foundation. That foundation is Sigma’ Converged Infrastructure. The converged infrastructure optimally matches your supply of IT resources with the demand for business applications. By transitioning from a product-centric approach to a shared-services management model, you can accelerate standardization, reduce operational costs, and improve business results.

At Sigma Solutions we understand the power of a service-centric approach to IT. We also have the resources to help you grasp that potential. We can help you design, implement, and support your converged infrastructure or even run it for you. Welcome to Datacenter 2.0