In the ever-evolving world of technology, schools continually seek efficient and effective ways to better manage their IT resources and technology budgets. For business leaders within schools, understanding the nuances of various computing models is crucial, especially when considering the shift towards hybrid cloud solutions. This blog post aims to elucidate what hybrid cloud is, how it differs from public cloud and traditional on-premise computing, and why it might be the ideal choice for schools.
Optimal data management
There is no one size fits all when it comes to the management of data (all public cloud or on premise). This is because there are many factors that should be considered when determining where a certain workload or data should reside. Ultimately, it is believed that a blended solution (Hybrid Cloud) best suits the needs of Australian schools.
What is Hybrid Cloud?
Hybrid cloud is an IT architecture that combines public cloud, private cloud, and on-premises infrastructure, allowing data and applications to be shared between them. This blend offers the flexibility and scalability of the cloud, while retaining essential control over certain data and applications. Essentially, it’s like having the best of both worlds – the expansiveness and efficiency of the cloud, coupled with the security and control of on-premise systems.
Differences between Public Cloud and On-Premise Computing
Public Cloud
Definition: Public cloud services are provided over the internet and shared across multiple organisations.
- Contrast with Hybrid Cloud: While public clouds offer scalability and cost-effectiveness, they may lack in specific security or compliance requirements. Hybrid cloud addresses these concerns by allowing sensitive data to be kept on a private cloud or on-premise.
- Major providers in Australia: Microsoft, Amazon and Google with smaller tier 2 specialist providers focusing on certain workloads and certain geographies.
On-Premise Computing:
Definition: This traditional form of computing involves resources located physically within the premises of the organisation.
- Contrast with Hybrid Cloud: On-premise solutions offer maximum control and security. However, they lack the flexibility and scalability that hybrid cloud environments provide. Hybrid clouds allow schools to maintain critical systems on-premise while leveraging the cloud for additional resources.
- Major technology vendors in this space: NetApp, Dell, HP, Lenovo (IBM) with some tier 2 firms like Nutanix, Pure Storage
Why should schools consider Hybrid Cloud?
There are a myriad of reasons why Hybrid Cloud is the best choice for data management. Below are the most significant benefits:
- Enhanced Data Security and Compliance: Schools handle their sensitive data themselves, including student records and staff information. Hybrid Cloud allows for critical data to be stored in private clouds or on-premises, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations and enhanced security measures.
- Cost-Effectiveness: By utilising public cloud resources for less sensitive tasks, schools can benefit from a pay-as-you-go model, avoiding the significant capital expenditure of setting up and maintaining a complete on-premise IT infrastructure. Often the inclusions of some of the education specific bundles (eg: Microsoft) can be quite substantial.
- Scalability and Flexibility: The Hybrid Cloud model is inherently scalable, allowing schools to easily adjust resources during peak times (like enrollment periods) or scale down during quieter months, ensuring efficient use of resources.
- Improved Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity: With data and applications distributed across cloud and on-premise environments, Hybrid Cloud provides robust options for disaster recovery. This ensures minimal disruption to the educational process in case of any physical damage to on-premise resources.
- Tailored IT Solutions: Not all schools have the same IT requirements. Hybrid Cloud offers the flexibility to tailor solutions according to specific needs, whether it’s hosting a virtual learning environment, managing library systems, or running administrative functions.
Migrating to Hybrid Cloud
For school business managers, the decision to migrate to a Hybrid Cloud environment should be driven by a clear understanding of the school’s specific needs and long-term IT strategy. Hybrid Cloud offers a flexible, secure, and cost-effective solution that can be tailored to the unique requirements of educational institutions. By balancing on-premise control with the scalability of the cloud, schools can achieve an optimal IT environment that supports both their current operations and future growth.
This understanding of Hybrid Cloud is not just about keeping up with technological trends; it’s about making strategic choices that have a lasting impact on the educational process and overall operational efficiency. As technology continues to shape the educational landscape, embracing solutions like Hybrid Cloud can be a significant step towards a more agile and responsive educational environment.
Do not overlook data protection when considering a Hybrid Cloud approach. While it can seem more complex than protecting simple on premise workloads upfront, there are many quality solutions available that make this process straightforward.
Data and cybersecurity experts
If you are not confident that you have a good understanding of your applications and data, we recommend undertaking a NetStrategy Application and Data Mapping project. This will assist you in discovering and mapping your key digital data and application assets. You can then better classify your data and make more informed decisions as to what data and systems should reside where. You may also consider a NetStrategy Education Security Assessment, which will give you a strong understanding of your cybersecurity posture, both on premise and in the cloud. If you would like to have a free consultation with one of our solution architects to better understand what a hybrid solution may look like for your school, contact NetStrategy today.
