MADDA WALABU UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF COMPUTING
DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

A SEMINAR REPORT ON
CLOUD COMPUTING AND ITS IMPACT ON IT
INFRASTRUCTURE
BY
EYERUSALEM ELIYAS………… UGR/24319/13
ESAYAS ISRAEL …………………UGR/24304/13
NEBIYU MATHEWOS ……………UGR/22344/13

Robe, Ethiopia
(January 3, 2024)
Contents
List of abbreviations...........................................................................................................................iii
Abstract................................................................................................................................................
1 Introduction................................................................................................................................1
2 Background History.....................................................................................................................2
3 How Cloud Computing Works in IT Infrastructure......................................................................2
3.1 Resource Pooling.................................................................................................................2
3.2 Service Models....................................................................................................................2
3.3 Deployment Models............................................................................................................3
3.4 Client-server Interaction.....................................................................................................3
3.5 Automation and Orchestration...........................................................................................3
3.6 Scalability and Elasticity......................................................................................................3
3.7 Data Storage and Management..........................................................................................3
3.8 Network Connectivity..........................................................................................................3
3.9 PayasYouGo Model.............................................................................................................4
3.10 Scalability............................................................................................................................4
3.11 Cost Efficiency.....................................................................................................................4
3.12 Flexibility and Agility...........................................................................................................4
3.13 Global Accessibility..............................................................................................................4
3.14 Data Security and Compliance............................................................................................5
3.15 Innovation and Rapid Development....................................................................................5
3.16 Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery.........................................................................5
3.17 Resource Optimization........................................................................................................5
3.18 Collaboration and Remote Work.........................................................................................5
3.19 Update Technology.............................................................................................................5
3.20 Focus on Core Business Activities........................................................................................5
4 Need of cloud computing............................................................................................................6
4.1 Distributed Computing........................................................................................................6
4.2 Networking..........................................................................................................................6
4.3 Storage:...............................................................................................................................6
4.4 Automation and Orchestration...........................................................................................6
4.5 Security and Identity Management.....................................................................................7
4.6 APIs and Web Services:.......................................................................................................7

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5 Advantage...................................................................................................................................7
5.1 Scalability and Flexibility.....................................................................................................7
5.2 Cost Efficiency.....................................................................................................................7
5.3 High Availability and Reliability...........................................................................................8
5.4 Improved Security...............................................................................................................8
5.5 Collaboration and Accessibility............................................................................................8
6 Disadvantage...............................................................................................................................8
6.1 Dependence on Internet Connectivity................................................................................8
6.2 Limited Control and Customization.....................................................................................9
6.3 Data Security and Privacy Concerns....................................................................................9
6.4 Potential for Vendor Lock-In...............................................................................................9
6.5 Service Outages and Downtime..........................................................................................9
7 Future Plans for Cloud Computing in IT Infrastructure..............................................................10
7.1 Hybrid and Multi-Cloud Strategies....................................................................................10
7.2 Edge Computing Integration.............................................................................................10
7.3 Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.....................................................................10
7.4 Enhanced Security and Privacy..........................................................................................10
7.5 Serverless Computing........................................................................................................11
7.6 Quantum Computing Integration......................................................................................11
7.7 Green and Sustainable Computing....................................................................................11
7.8 Enhanced Data Management and Analytics......................................................................11
8 Conclusion.................................................................................................................................12
9 Reference..................................................................................................................................13

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List of abbreviations

Iaas: Infrastructure As A Service

Paas: Platform As A Service

Saas: Software As A Service

AWS: Amazon Web Services

EC2: Elastic Compute Cloud

SDN: Software-Defined Networking

VPN: Virtual Private Network

Vms: Virtual Machines

NFS: Network File System

SMB: Server Message Block

IAM: Identity and Access Management

SIEM: Security Information and Event Management

Apis: Application Programming Interfaces

AI: Artificial Intelligence

ML: Machine Learning

Faas: Function As A Service

Iot: Internet of Things

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Seminar report

Abstract
This research paper delves into the transformative influence of cloud computing on
traditional IT infrastructure. Examining the historical evolution of cloud technology, the
study investigates its multifaceted impact on organizational structures, resource
management, security paradigms, and overall operational efficiency. Through a
comprehensive analysis of case studies and industry trends, the paper aims to provide
insights into the challenges, opportunities, and strategic considerations that arise as
businesses migrate to cloud based solutions. The findings contribute to a nuanced
understanding of the dynamic landscape shaped by the integration of cloud computing
within IT frame

Cloud computing and its impact on IT infrastructure Page

Seminar report

1 Introduction
In the contemporary landscape of information technology (IT), the advent of cloud
computing has emerged as a transformative force, reshaping the traditional paradigms of
infrastructure management. This paradigm shift signifies a departure from conventional, on
premise models to dynamic, scalable, and on demand computing resources delivered
through the cloud. Cloud computing, with its diverse service models such as Infrastructure
as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS),
introduces a new dimension to IT infrastructure, offering unprecedented flexibility,
efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
This research endeavors to explore the profound impact of cloud computing on IT
infrastructure, investigating how organizations navigate the challenges and harness the
opportunities presented by this technological evolution. As businesses increasingly migrate
to cloud based solutions, understanding the implications on organizational structures,
resource allocation, and security frameworks becomes paramount. Through a detailed
examination of industry trends, case studies, and best practices, this study aims to contribute
valuable insights to the dynamic discourse surrounding the integration of cloud computing
in modern IT environments. The journey from traditional infrastructure models to cloud
centric architectures is a pivotal aspect of the ongoing digital transformation, and this
research seeks to illuminate the path forward.

Cloud computing and its impact on IT infrastructure Page 1

2 Background History
Cloud computing has its roots in the early concepts of utility computing and timesharing
systems in the 1960s and 1970s. Mainframe computers were accessed remotely by multiple
users, laying the foundation for shared computing resources. The term "cloud computing"
gained prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s, as internet connectivity became more
widespread and virtualization technology improved. Amazon Web Services (AWS) played
a significant role by introducing Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) in 2006, allowing
organizations to access scalable virtual servers on demand. Google and Microsoft also
contributed to the growth of cloud services with offerings like Google Apps and Microsoft
Azure. The evolution of cloud computing included the emergence of Software as a Service
(SaaS) providers like Sales force and Drop box, demonstrating the feasibility of delivering
software over the internet. This historical journey has led to a paradigm shift in IT
infrastructure, with organizations increasingly relying on the dynamic and scalable nature of
cloud computing.

3 How Cloud Computing Works in IT Infrastructure

Cloud computing revolutionizes IT infrastructure by providing a flexible, scalable, and cost-
effective model for delivering computing services. Here's a detailed exploration of how
cloud computing works within the realm of IT infrastructure

3.1 Resource Pooling

Cloud computing relies on the concept of resource pooling, where vast computing
resources, including servers, storage, and networking, are aggregated into a centralized
pool. These resources are dynamically allocated and reassigned based on demand.
Virtualization Technology
Virtualization is a key enabler in cloud computing. It allows the creation of virtual instances
or machines within physical servers. This abstraction enables multiple virtual servers to run
on a single physical server, optimizing hardware utilization and facilitating easier
management.

3.2 Service Models

Cloud computing operates on different service models, each catering to specific needs
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) Offers virtualized computing resources, allowing users to
provision and manage virtual machines, storage, and networking.
Platform as a Service (PaaS) Provides a platform with development tools and services for
building and deploying applications without managing the underlying infrastructure.

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Software as a Service (SaaS) Delivers fully functional software applications over the
internet, eliminating the need for local installations.

3.3 Deployment Models

Cloud services can be deployed in various ways to suit organizational requirements
Public Cloud Services are offered to the public over the internet by third-party providers.
Private Cloud Infrastructure is exclusively used by a single organization, either on premise
or hosted by a third party.
Hybrid Cloud Integrates both public and private clouds, allowing data and applications to be
shared between them.

3.4 Client-server Interaction

Clients, which can be end-users or applications, interact with cloud services through the
internet. This interaction involves requesting computing resources, accessing data, or
utilizing specific software functionalities.

3.5 Automation and Orchestration

Cloud computing emphasizes automation and orchestration to streamline processes. Tasks
like provisioning, scaling, and configuration management are automated, reducing manual
intervention and ensuring consistency.

3.6 Scalability and Elasticity

Cloud infrastructure offers scalability to accommodate varying workloads. Resources can
be scaled up or down based on demand, providing elasticity to adapt to changing
requirements.

3.7 Data Storage and Management

Cloud providers offer storage services that allow organizations to store and manage data
efficiently. These services often include features like redundancy, data backup, and
accessibility from anywhere.

3.8 Network Connectivity

Robust network connectivity is crucial for cloud computing. High-speed, reliable internet
connections ensure seamless communication between clients and cloud resources.
Security Measures

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 Security is a top priority in cloud computing. Cloud service providers implement a range of
security measures, including encryption, access controls, and regular audits, to protect data
and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

3.9 PayasYouGo Model

Cloud computing often follows a payasyougo or subscription based pricing model. Users
pay for the resources they consume, promoting cost effectiveness and flexibility.

In essence, cloud computing transforms IT infrastructure by providing a dynamic and

adaptable environment, allowing organizations to focus on innovation and business
objectives without the burden of managing complex hardware and software infrastructures.
The adoption of cloud computing in IT infrastructure addresses various needs and
challenges, providing a range of benefits. Here's a brief explanation of the key needs for
applying cloud computing

3.10 Scalability
Need Businesses often face fluctuating workloads and demand scalability to handle varying
levels of resource requirements efficiently. Cloud computing allows organizations to scale
resources up or down based on demand, ensuring optimal performance and cost
effectiveness.

3.11 Cost Efficiency

Need Traditional IT infrastructure involves significant upfront investments in hardware and
maintenance costs. Cloud computing operates on a payasyougo model, reducing capital
expenditures and allowing organizations to pay only for the resources they use, promoting
cost efficiency

3.12 Flexibility and Agility

Need Rapid technological advancements and evolving business requirements demand
flexibility and agility. Cloud services provide the flexibility to adapt quickly to changing
needs, enabling faster deployment of applications and services.

3.13 Global Accessibility

Need In a globalized business environment, organizations require access to resources from
various locations. Cloud computing facilitates global accessibility, allowing users to access
applications and data over the internet from anywhere in the world.

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3.14 Data Security and Compliance
Need ensuring data security and compliance with regulations is critical. Cloud providers
implement robust security measures, including encryption, access controls, and compliance
certifications, addressing security concerns and simplifying regulatory compliance.

3.15 Innovation and Rapid Development

Need Businesses need to innovate and bring products and services to market quickly. Cloud
platforms offer a variety of tools and services for rapid application development, supporting
innovation and reducing time to market.

3.16 Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

Need Organizations require effective disaster recovery plans to ensure business continuity
in the face of disruptions. Cloud providers offer built in redundancy and disaster recovery
solutions, enhancing resilience and minimizing downtime.

3.17 Resource Optimization

Need Efficient resource allocation is essential for performance optimization. Cloud
computing enables dynamic allocation and efficient utilization of resources, preventing
overprovisioning and minimizing wastage.

3.18 Collaboration and Remote Work

Need Modern work practices demand remote collaboration and access to resources. Cloud
services facilitate collaboration by providing remote access to applications and data,
supporting flexible work arrangements

3.19 Update Technology

Need staying competitive require access to the latest technologies. Cloud providers
continually update their infrastructure and services, ensuring organizations can leverage
cutting edge technologies without the need for constant upgrades.

3.20 Focus on Core Business Activities

Need Managing IT infrastructure can divert resources from core business activities. Cloud
computing allows organizations to offload infrastructure management to service providers,
enabling a focus on strategic business goals.
The adoption of cloud computing meets these needs, offering a transformative approach to
IT infrastructure management that enhances efficiency, flexibility, and innovation for
businesses of all sizes.

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4 Need of cloud computing
1. Virtualization: Virtualization is a fundamental technology in cloud computing. It enables
the creation of virtual instances of servers, storage devices, networks, and other resources.
By abstracting physical hardware, virtualization allows for efficient resource allocation,
isolation, and management, enabling multiple virtual machines (VMs) or containers to run
on a single physical server.

4.1 Distributed Computing

Cloud computing relies on distributed computing techniques to distribute workloads across
multiple servers or data centers. This enables load balancing, fault tolerance, and scalability.
Distributed computing frameworks such as Apache Hadoop and Apache Spark are
commonly used for big data processing and analytics in the cloud.

4.2 Networking
Networking technologies play a crucial role in cloud computing to provide connectivity
between various components and users. Virtual private networks (VPNs) enable secure
communication between on-premises systems and cloud resources. Software-defined
networking (SDN) allows for flexible and programmable network configurations, while
load balancers and content delivery networks (CDNs) improve performance and availability
of cloud services.

4.3 Storage:
Cloud computing relies on various storage technologies to store and manage data. Object
storage is commonly used for storing unstructured data and is accessible via APIs, making it
suitable for web applications and content distribution. Block storage provides raw storage
volumes that can be attached to virtual machines, enabling them to operate as if connected
to a physical hard drive. File storage systems, such as Network File System (NFS) or Server
Message Block (SMB), allow shared access to files across multiple instances.

4.4 Automation and Orchestration

Cloud computing leverages automation and orchestration tools to streamline the
provisioning, management, and monitoring of cloud resources. Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
tools, like Terraform and Ansible, allow for defining and deploying infrastructure using
code, enabling reproducibility and scalability. Orchestration frameworks, such as
Kubernetes, manage the deployment and scaling of containerized applications in the cloud.

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4.5 Security and Identity Management
Cloud computing incorporates various security technologies to protect data and ensure
secure access. Encryption techniques are used to secure data at rest and in transit. Identity
and Access Management (IAM) systems control user access to cloud resources, enforce
authentication and authorization policies, and enable centralized management of user
identities. Security information and event management (SIEM) tools monitor and analyze
security events in the cloud environment.

4.6 APIs and Web Services:

Cloud computing heavily relies on Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and web
services for interaction between different cloud services and for integrating cloud services
with external applications and systems. APIs facilitate the management and control of cloud
resources, allowing developers to programmatically provision, monitor, and manage cloud
infrastructure.

These technologies work together to provide the foundation for cloud computing, enabling
the efficient delivery of on-demand computing resources, scalability, flexibility, and the
wide range of services offered by cloud service providers.

5 Advantage
5.1 Scalability and Flexibility
Cloud computing allows organizations to easily scale their IT infrastructure up or down
based on their needs. Whether you require more computing power, storage space, or
additional services, the cloud provides the flexibility to quickly adjust your resources
without the need for significant upfront investments or long-term commitments. This
scalability enables businesses to respond rapidly to changing demands and optimize
resource utilization.

5.2 Cost Efficiency

Cloud computing offers cost advantages compared to traditional on-premises infrastructure.
With cloud services, you typically pay on a pay-as-you-go basis, which means you only pay
for the resources and services you actually use. This eliminates the need for upfront capital
expenditure on hardware and software, as well as ongoing maintenance and upgrade costs.
Additionally, cloud computing reduces the need for in-house IT staff to manage
infrastructure, further reducing operational expenses.

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5.3 High Availability and Reliability
Cloud service providers often have multiple data centers located in different geographic
regions. This geographic distribution ensures that your data and applications are replicated
across multiple sites, providing high availability and minimizing the risk of data loss or
downtime. Cloud providers also offer robust backup and disaster recovery solutions,
ensuring that your data is protected and can be quickly restored in the event of a failure or
disaster.

5.4 Improved Security

Cloud service providers invest heavily in implementing robust security measures to protect
their infrastructure and customer data. They employ advanced encryption techniques, access
controls, and monitoring systems to safeguard data from unauthorized access, data breaches,
and other security threats. Additionally, by leveraging the expertise of cloud providers who
specialize in security, organizations can benefit from the latest security practices and
technologies without having to invest heavily in building and maintaining their own security
infrastructure.

5.5 Collaboration and Accessibility

Cloud computing enables seamless collaboration and accessibility to data and applications
from anywhere, at any time, and across multiple devices. Collaborative tools and platforms
hosted in the cloud allow teams to work together in real-time, share documents, and
communicate effectively, regardless of their physical location. This accessibility and
collaboration can significantly enhance productivity and enable remote work, making it
easier to adapt to changing work environments and business needs.

6 Disadvantage
6.1 Dependence on Internet Connectivity

Cloud computing heavily relies on a stable and high-speed internet connection. If there are
issues with the internet service or if the connection is slow, it can significantly impact the
performance and accessibility of cloud-based applications and data. This dependence on
connectivity can be a disadvantage for organizations operating in areas with limited or
unreliable internet access.

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6.2 Limited Control and Customization
When migrating to the cloud, organizations often have to relinquish some control over their
infrastructure and rely on the cloud service provider for management and maintenance. This
can limit the ability to customize the infrastructure to meet specific requirements.
Organizations may face challenges in configuring certain settings, implementing specialized
security measures, or integrating with legacy systems that are not fully compatible with the
cloud environment.

6.3 Data Security and Privacy Concerns

While cloud service providers implement robust security measures, there are still concerns
related to data security and privacy. Storing sensitive data in the cloud raises questions
about who has access to the data and how it is protected. Organizations need to carefully
evaluate the security practices and compliance standards of their chosen cloud provider to
ensure that their data is adequately protected, especially when dealing with highly sensitive
or regulated information.

6.4 Potential for Vendor Lock-In

Moving to the cloud often involves adopting specific cloud platforms and services, which
can create a level of vendor lock-in. Once an organization invests heavily in a particular
cloud provider's infrastructure and services, it can be challenging and costly to switch to a
different provider or to bring the infrastructure back in-house. This lack of portability can
limit flexibility and hinder the ability to adapt to changing business needs or take advantage
of better offerings from other providers.

6.5 Service Outages and Downtime

Although cloud service providers strive to provide high availability and reliability, service
outages and downtime can still occur. These disruptions can be caused by hardware failures,
software bugs, natural disasters, or cyber-attacks. During these periods of downtime,
organizations may experience a loss in productivity, reduced access to critical applications
or data, and potential financial implications. It's important for organizations to have
contingency plans and backup strategies in place to mitigate the impact of such events.

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7 Future Plans for Cloud Computing in IT Infrastructure
7.1 Hybrid and Multi-Cloud Strategies
Organizations are increasingly adopting hybrid and multi-cloud approaches to leverage the
benefits of multiple cloud providers and infrastructure models. This involves distributing
workloads and applications across different cloud platforms or combining public and
private clouds to achieve optimal performance, cost efficiency, and flexibility. The future of
cloud computing will likely see further advancements in managing and orchestrating
workloads across diverse cloud environments, enabling seamless integration and
interoperability.

7.2 Edge Computing Integration

Edge computing is gaining prominence as a complementary technology to cloud computing.
It involves processing and analyzing data closer to the source, at the network edge, rather
than relying solely on centralized cloud servers. This approach enhances real-time
processing, reduces latency, and addresses bandwidth constraints. In the future, cloud
computing will likely integrate more closely with edge computing, enabling organizations
to leverage the benefits of both paradigms and create distributed infrastructures that
optimize performance and efficiency.

7.3 Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Cloud computing is well-suited to supporting artificial intelligence (AI) and machine
learning (ML) workloads, as these applications often require substantial computing power
and large-scale data processing capabilities. Future plans for cloud computing in IT
infrastructure include offering specialized AI/ML services, frameworks, and tools that
simplify the development and deployment of AI/ML models. The cloud will continue to
evolve as a key platform for AI/ML, enabling organizations to leverage advanced analytics
and automation capabilities.

7.4 Enhanced Security and Privacy

As cloud computing becomes more pervasive, ensuring robust security and privacy
measures will remain a top priority. Future plans for cloud computing include
advancements in security technologies, such as confidential computing, which allows
sensitive data to be processed in secure enclaves within the cloud environment.
Additionally, privacy regulations and compliance standards will continue to evolve, driving
cloud service providers to enhance data protection, encryption, access controls, and auditing
capabilities.

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7.5 Serverless Computing
Serverlzess computing, also known as Function as a Service (FaaS), is gaining traction as a
cloud computing model that allows developers to focus solely on writing and deploying
code without the need to manage underlying infrastructure. In the future, serverless
computing is expected to become more prevalent, enabling organizations to build and
deploy applications with reduced operational overhead, improved scalability, and cost
optimization.

7.6 Quantum Computing Integration

Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize computing power and tackle
complex problems that are currently infeasible for classical computers. While still in its
early stages, future plans for cloud computing include integration with quantum computing
resources, enabling organizations to access and leverage quantum processing capabilities
through the cloud. This integration will open up new possibilities for solving computational
challenges across various domains, including cryptography, optimization, and scientific
simulations.

7.7 Green and Sustainable Computing

With the increasing focus on sustainability, cloud computing providers are exploring ways
to optimize energy consumption and reduce the environmental impact of data centers.
Future plans for cloud computing include investing in renewable energy sources, improving
data center efficiency, and adopting green computing practices. This will not only help
reduce carbon footprints but also provide cost savings for organizations by optimizing
resource usage.

7.8 Enhanced Data Management and Analytics

Cloud computing will continue to evolve as a powerful platform for data management and
analytics. Future plans include the development of advanced data processing and analytics
capabilities within the cloud, such as real-time analytics, predictive modeling, and
automated insights generation. These advancements will enable organizations to extract
meaningful insights from large volumes of data, drive informed decision-making, and
unlock new value from their data assets.

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8 Conclusion
Cloud computing has undergone a transformative journey, reshaping traditional IT models
and revolutionizing organizational structures, resource management, and operational
efficiency in the field of information technology. The historical evolution of cloud
computing, from early concepts to the contributions of major players like Amazon Web
Services, Google, and Microsoft, sets the stage for understanding its impact on IT
infrastructure today. Key facets such as resource pooling, virtualization technology, service
and deployment models, and security measures play crucial roles in the intricate workings
of cloud computing. The adoption of cloud computing is driven by its scalability, cost
efficiency, global accessibility, and ability to support innovation. However, challenges such
as security, data privacy, and vendor lock-in must be carefully addressed through a well-
defined cloud strategy. The versatility of cloud computing is showcased in its applications
across various IT domains, including IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, disaster recovery, big data analytics,
AI, and IoT. The future of cloud computing entails enhanced security, integration with edge
and quantum computing, sustainability practices, and the evolution of serveries computing.
Ultimately, cloud computing represents a paradigm shift in how organizations approach IT
infrastructure, providing opportunities for efficiency, innovation, and sustained
competitiveness in the digital era.

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9 Reference
www.techopedia.com

www.techtarget.com

www.linkedin.com

www.javatpoint.com

www.poe.com

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