Cloud computing is a buzz-word in today's information technology (IT) that nobody can escape. But what is really behind it? There are many interpretations of this term, but no standardized or even uniform definition. Instead, as a result of the multi-faceted viewpoints and the diverse interests expressed by the various stakeholders, cloud computing is perceived as a rather fuzzy concept.
With this book, the authors deliver an overview of cloud computing architecture, services, and applications. Their aim is to bring readers up to date on this technology and thus to provide a common basis for discussion, new research, and novel application scenarios. They first introduce the foundation of cloud computing with its basic technologies, such as virtualization and Web services. After that they discuss the cloud architecture and its service modules. The following chapters then cover selected commercial cloud offerings (including Amazon Web Services and Google App Engine) and management tools, and present current related open-source developments (including Hadoop, Eucalyptus, and Open CirrusTM). Next, economic considerations (cost and business models) are discussed, and an evaluation of the cloud market situation is given. Finally, the appendix contains some practical examples of how to use cloud resources or cloud applications, and a glossary provides concise definitions of key terms.
The authors' presentation does not require in-depth technical knowledge. It is equally intended as an introduction for students in software engineering, web technologies, or business development, for professional software developers or system architects, and for future-oriented decision-makers like top executives and managers.
Rezensionen / Stimmen
From the reviews:
"The book provides a well-written, surprisingly comprehensive introduction to the topic of service-oriented architecture, which is a core concept underlying various 'as a service' possibilities . that together are commonly called cloud computing. . Both the glossary and bibliography are valuable resources--the former for those becoming familiar with the field, and the latter for those wishing to delve deeper. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals/practitioners; two-year technical program students." (C. Vickery, Choice, Vol. 49 (5), January, 2012)
"The authors are presenting a well prepared introduction to cloud computing. . The book provides clear and sufficient material for an introductory lecture for students in computer science, engineering or business, as well as for decision makers." (Dana Petcu, Zentralblatt MATH, Vol. 1223, 2011)
"Present a very approachable 10,000-foot overview, summarizing allaspects of cloud computing circa early 2011. The main subject headings are 'Cloud Basics,' 'Cloud Architecture,' 'Selected Cloud Offerings,' 'Cloud Management,' 'Open Source Cloud Stack,' 'Economic Considerations,' and 'Opportunities and Risks.' The extensive bibliography provides a good springboard for those who want to delve into specific topics. . I recommend this book for anyone wanting a fairly quick read that introduces the field of cloud computing." (Wes Munsil, ACM Computing Reviews, February, 2012)
