Virtual private cloud
(also VPC)
Virtual private cloud definition
A virtual private cloud (VPC) is a virtualized private network space in a public cloud environment. It allows users to use an isolated and secure environment similar to a private data center. While on it, they can run software, manage a network, and control access.
VPCs run within public cloud infrastructures. Users can create and control a virtual network on them. It includes things like IP address ranges, subnets, and configuration of route tables and network gateways. This ensures that resources within the cloud communicate using private IP addresses, isolated from the rest of the internet.
See also: cloud VPN, cloud VPS, cloud operating system
History of virtual private cloud
The concept of VPCs emerged as businesses started migrating to cloud services. They soon discovered they needed more privacy and control over their data. Public cloud providers introduced VPCs as a way to combine the benefits of cloud computing with the security and flexibility of on-site data centers.
Advantages of virtual private clouds
- VPCs offer increased security by isolating resources from the internet and other cloud users.
- Users can define their own networking configurations, just like in a private data center.
- Whenever a user needs more resources, they can scale easily.
Disadvantages of virtual private clouds
- Setting up and managing a VPC can be difficult, especially for users unfamiliar with cloud networking.
- Virtual private clouds are more expensive than standard cloud services.
- The added layer of virtualization and security can slow down the performance.