6 C] List and explain some of the challenges in cloud computing.
Open Challenges in Cloud Computing
Cloud computing, being a nascent technology, presents significant challenges for both academia and industry. Key challenges include defining and formalizing cloud computing, achieving interoperability across clouds, establishing standards, ensuring security, scalability, fault tolerance, and addressing organizational changes.
1 Cloud Definition
Attempts to define cloud computing have resulted in various frameworks. The widely accepted NIST definition characterizes cloud computing through on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. It classifies services as SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS and outlines deployment models like public, private, hybrid, and community clouds. Alternative approaches, such as David Linthicum’s taxonomy and UCSB’s ontology, offer more detailed classifications or layered architectures. These definitions evolve alongside the technology.
2 Cloud Interoperability and Standards
Interoperability and standardization are critical for cloud adoption, addressing challenges like vendor lock-in. Standards, such as the Open Virtualization Format (OVF), aim to enhance compatibility among IaaS providers, though adoption is limited. Efforts by organizations like the Cloud Computing Interoperability Forum (CCIF) and Open Cloud Consortium are paving the way toward universal standards and reference architectures.
3 Scalability and Fault Tolerance
Cloud computing’s ability to scale on demand is a major advantage. Achieving scalability across dimensions such as performance, size, and load requires robust cloud middleware. Fault tolerance is equally vital, necessitating systems that balance ease of management with high performance and resilience.
4 Security, Trust, and Privacy
Security concerns, including data tampering and unauthorized access, remain significant barriers to cloud adoption. The use of virtualization introduces new threats, such as exposing sensitive data in memory to virtual machine managers. Trust and privacy issues arise from the lack of control over data and multi-party service delivery, creating challenges in liability and compliance.
5 Organizational Aspects
Cloud computing alters IT service management, requiring cultural and organizational changes. Enterprises must adapt to new billing models, diminished IT control, and evolving roles for IT staff. These shifts challenge traditional approaches to troubleshooting and governance, impacting internal relationships and processes.