Cloud computing and distributed computing are related concepts, but they are not the same. Cloud computing is a subset of distributed computing. This means that all cloud computing systems are distributed systems, but not all distributed systems are cloud computing systems.
Understanding the Key Differences
To better understand the relationship, let's examine each concept individually and then compare them:
Distributed Computing
- Definition: A distributed computing system consists of multiple independent computers networked together to work on a single problem. The computers coordinate their actions to achieve a common goal.
- Characteristics:
- Independent Computers: Each computer in the system functions independently.
- Coordination: These computers communicate and coordinate their actions via a network.
- Common Goal: The ultimate goal is to solve a problem collectively that would be difficult or impossible for a single computer to handle efficiently.
- Examples:
- High-performance computing (HPC) clusters
- Peer-to-peer networks
- Grid computing
Cloud Computing
- Definition: Cloud computing is a service-oriented model that provides on-demand access to computing resources (servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence) over the internet. These resources are typically managed by a third-party provider.
- Characteristics:
- Service-Oriented: Cloud resources are provided as services (e.g., Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS)).
- On-Demand Access: Users can access resources whenever they need them, typically through a self-service portal.
- Scalability: Resources can be easily scaled up or down to meet changing demands.
- Pay-as-you-go: Users only pay for the resources they consume.
- Examples:
- Amazon Web Services (AWS)
- Microsoft Azure
- Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
Cloud Computing as a Subset of Distributed Computing
Because cloud computing delivers computing resources as services over a network, and because cloud systems are built upon a foundation of interconnected computers, cloud computing is a specialized form of distributed computing. The cloud utilizes distributed computing to make these service offerings possible.
Here’s why cloud computing is considered a subset:
- Foundation: Cloud computing relies on the principles of distributed computing to provide its services.
- Specific Characteristics: Cloud computing adds specific characteristics, such as on-demand access, scalability, and pay-as-you-go pricing, which are not necessarily present in all distributed computing systems.
- Service Model: Cloud computing is characterized by its service-oriented model, where resources are offered as services to users. This is a defining characteristic that differentiates it from general distributed computing.
Table Summarizing the Key Differences
| Feature | Distributed Computing | Cloud Computing |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Multiple independent computers working together. | Computing resources provided as services over the internet. |
| Service Model | Not necessarily service-oriented. | Service-oriented (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS). |
| Access | Varies; may not be on-demand. | On-demand, typically self-service. |
| Scalability | Can be scalable, but not always as seamless as in the cloud. | Highly scalable. |
| Pricing | Varies; may not be pay-as-you-go. | Pay-as-you-go. |
| Management | Often managed by the organization using it. | Managed by a third-party provider. |
| Underlying Tech | Can use various distributed architectures. | Leverages distributed computing principles extensively. |
In summary, cloud computing utilizes distributed computing principles to deliver computing resources as a service, adding features like on-demand access, scalability, and pay-as-you-go pricing.
