PUBLIC PRIVATE OR HYBRID CLOUD
How to choose? Here’s a guide to better understand the differences
Choosing a cloud infrastructure to host web applications, databases, or websites is closely linked to the technological and strategic success of your organization. But how do you know which approach best suits your needs and reality? This guide on Public, Private, or Hybrid Cloud can help you understand the differences and guide you toward making an informed decision.
Before diving into the details, let’s clarify some fundamental differences between the three types of Cloud:
| Type | Resources | Security & Control | Typical Use Case | Billing Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public | Shared via a provider | Low to moderate | Mobile apps, sites with variable traffic | Pay-as-you-go (per minute/GB) |
| Private | Dedicated, isolated | High | Sensitive data, regulatory compliance | Fixed cost (monthly or annual) |
| Hybrid | Mix of public/private | Customized per usage | Varied needs, performance & security | Mix: fixed + variable |
- Public Cloud: you rent resources (storage, cpu, memory) from a third-party provider (e.g. AWS, Azure, Google Cloud). These resources are shared with those of other customers.
- Private Cloud: resources are entirely dedicated to your business. Hosted on your own servers or in an isolated environment managed by a service provider (e.g. DATAonline.solutions), you retain full control over the performance (machine power), security (firewall rules) and resilience (RPO & RTO) of your infrastructure.
- Hybrid Cloud: combines the two models, enabling a company to run certain applications on a Public Cloud while keeping sensitive or critical data in a Private Cloud.
1. Public Cloud: flexibility and cost-efficiency
Advantages:
- Low initial costs
- Fast resource elasticity
- Ease of use
Example: A mobile app experiences traffic spikes during holidays or seasonal events. The Public Cloud allows instant capacity scaling without overly increasing operating costs for a startup.
– Digital entertainment startup
2. Private Cloud: maximum control and security
Advantages:
- Enhanced security
- Complete data control
- Customized performance
- Full compliance control
Example: Handling sensitive financial data daily requires a dedicated, highly secure Private Cloud infrastructure that fully meets regulatory obligations
– financial services firm
3. Hybrid Cloud: a tailored balance
Advantages:
- Optimal balance of security, cost, and flexibility
- Enables hybrid scenarios (e.g. public-facing apps, private data)
Example: An e-commerce site needs speed, but customer and transaction data must be highly secure. A Hybrid Cloud lets you smartly distribute resources based on data sensitivity
– multi-region online retailer
How to decide?
- Clearly identify your priorities: security, cost, performance, compliance, and risk tolerance.
- Evaluate your internal capabilities: do you have in-house expertise to manage a complex solution?
- Consult experts: specialized partners like DATAonline.solutions can help you choose the right approach for your current and future needs.
DATAonline.solutions specializes in designing, installing, migrating, and maintaining Proxmox-based Private Cloud solutions. Depending on your web project’s needs, we can also advise on combined approaches requiring a Hybrid solution so you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
Our goal is to support you in deploying a solution perfectly aligned with your ambitions.
