Cloud provisioning definition
Cloud provisioning is the process of allocating computing resources (such as virtual machines, storage, databases, and networking components) in a cloud environment. Cloud computing principles aim to efficiently distribute and configure the available infrastructure to meet client needs.
See also: data center design, data center tiers, cloud architecture, cloud as a service, cloud server
Types of cloud provisioning
- Advanced provisioning delivers cloud resources based on a fixed service-level agreement (SLA). The client specifies what services they need and what the terms of delivery are. Advanced provisioning contracts give clients fixed access to resources regardless of circumstances, but the client’s infrastructure may be overwhelmed due to unforeseen spikes in demand.
- Dynamic provisioning is a flexible arrangement between the client and the cloud service provider. Under dynamic provisioning, the resources available to the client are automatically adjusted if the circumstances change — for example, if there is an influx of new users or a sudden drop in demand. As a result, dynamic provisioning services typically operate under a pay-per-use model.
- User self-provisioning allows users to purchase specific cloud services as needed. The cloud provider sets up a self-service portal (or interface) and makes it available to the user, with requested resources being allocated promptly after purchase. The purchased services are typically only active for a set period of time, after which the user needs to purchase them again.
