In the previous post, I talked about the three layers of cloud computing: Software-as-a-Service, Platform-as-a-Service, and Infrastructure-as-a-Service. DBaaS is the fourth, but not necessarily newest, cloud computing layer. Similar to the other layers of cloud computing, it provides a service over the use of the Internet--in this case, database management. The layer acts as an automated, virtual database administrator from a remote location, providing the necessary applications needed for companies to store, retrieve, and manage data. By utilizing a DBaaS, a user may only be responsible for defining the application the that is needed, as well as the budgets and constraints of the service. The DBaaS is responsible for maintenance, backup and recovery, security, configuration, etc. For many companies, this alleviates unnecessary stress and allows for greater customization of a firm's database.
DBaaS shares many of the same advantages and disadvantages as the other three layers of cloud computing. One of the most notable advantages of DBaaS is cost efficiency. Databases in general can be highly expensive to maintain, especially if done in-house. DBaaS providers typically allow firms to purchase the service using monthly subscriptions, such as with the Oracle Cloud DBaaS. Firms pay only for what they use and nothing more, allowing for greater flexibility. One downside to DBaaS, similar to the other layers of cloud computing, is security risks. Companies are slowly overcoming their fears of storing large amounts of data in a non-physical location. Still, DBaaS providers are doing well to ensure organizations that their information is safe and will always be readily available.
I believe a question now is: Will the use of DBaaS surpass SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS? The layers may seem similar at first glance, but specializes in something different from the others. Is DBaaS more necessary in companies than the others? Will DBaaS become the next focus of cloud computing services in top technology companies across the world? Oracle seems to think so. But what service can possibly upstage DBaaS? There are still plenty of questions to ask about this layer of cloud computing that I could not even begin to answer in just one post. For my next few posts, I plan to take a look at the different companies that are providing and/or utilizing DBaaS to determine if DBaaS is really the future of cloud computing.
Below are a few articles that go more into detail about DBaaS:
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