One can easily set up a private cloud using Oracle Fusion Middleware. Clouds are of two categories: public and private. The public clouds are open to a range of customers including individuals. SkyDrive, Google Docs are examples of public clouds.
On the other hand, a private cloud belongs to a single business. This has plenty of advantages over a public cloud as it serves only one business or a single individual. As per Oracle, the characteristics of private cloud are:
- Lower total cost over time
- Full access and flexibility to integrate
- Direct control over quality of service and security
For creating a private cloud, one should seek PAAS. If the IT department selects to work from the IAAS level, it would require highly trained professionals. Plus, the purchase of an infrastructure and its maintenance would nullify the purpose of cloud. A well-built PAAS allows designers to create software for different departments of the business. If the PAAS is neglected or poorly built, the flexibility of SAAS would be restricted, thereby depriving several departments from using the private cloud. Hence, Oracle places emphasis on PAAS first.
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Check the above image carefully (click to enlarge). It shows all three levels of cloud computing: IAAS; PAAS; and SAAS. The basic IAAS (Infrastructure as a Service) may or may not use Oracle virtualization techniques. If Oracle virtualization techniques are used, the compatibility of PAAS would be even more so that software developers can better design Software as a Service (SAAS) for different departments.
In the above figure, you can see the Middleware. It includes technologies such as SOA (service oriented architecture), BPM (Business Project Management), user interface management, and identity management systems. The Oracle Middleware contains even more resources. However, you can achieve a good PAAS using the listed resources. Systems management such as Oracle Enterprise Manager spans the entire stack. These resources set a base for system and application designers to create different application software for different departments or sections of the business.
Oracle Fusion shows how it helps in construction of private enterprise clouds so that your data is secure and private. Of course, there should be some obligations on the part of cloud network designers and administrators. They should know how to allocate responsibilities on different aspects of the cloud. It is just like allocating access privileges so that the data on the cloud stays safe and secure. Finally, end-users should be trained to use the cloud effectively.
To sum up, Oracle Fusion Middleware is a great method for companies and small businesses looking to have their own private clouds so that they need not hire experts for constructing a client-server based network that employs physical elements. With an Oracle Fusion built cloud, it is a one-time expense to set up the PAAS (if you do not have expertise in this area, you may have to hire someone to set it up for you). Once the Oracle PAAS is engaged, the SAAS can be designed and changed as per the needs of the different departments of your company or small business.
Though I tried to cover Oracle Fusion in the easiest way possible, please use the comments section if you have any questions.
Images Courtesy of the Oracle Corporation
