Data Backup Digest

Although you might not realize it, open-source software is actually quite commonplace in the modern cloud framework of today. In an attempt to draw more attention to its usage, and to ensure the average consumer's knowledge of the current state of cloud computing, the Linux Foundation has recently published their 2016 Guide to the Open Cloud whitepaper.

While the primary focus of the report centers on open-source integration within the cloud, the authors touch on a number of relevant topics. Infrastructure-as-a-service, platform-as-service, device virtualization, software-defined networking and even cloud-based operating systems are all mentioned in their analysis of the current market.

The report goes into specific detail about public cloud adoption, which has grown exponentially in recent years, as well the rise of applications that exist solely within the cloud. Such developments could pave the way for significant enhancements and upgrades down the line.

Mark Hinkle, vice president of marketing with the Linux Foundation, explained the importance of open-source technology within modern cloud computing. He was quoted as saying: "Open-source software is prevalent in the cloud and is often the preferred choice for new infrastructure technology deployments. The Guide to the Open Cloud was created to provide an overview of the latest open-source software used to deploy and manage cloud deployments as well as illustrate emerging design patterns including those utilizing containers, cloud-native applications and microservices."

Hinkle continued his statement by stressing the importance of end-user collaboration and participation by saying: "Contributing knowledge and code to open-source projects not only helps companies meet their business objectives, but it creates thriving communities that keep projects strong and relevant over time, advances the technology, and benefits the entire open-source cloud ecosystem."

The Linux Foundation's marketing VP was quick to point out the fact that much of the framework behind cloud computing is based on open-source technologies to begin with. His team's report simply draws attention to the processes which are already in use.

A few of the more notable open-source tools that already exist within the cloud include Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KBM), Eucalyptus, Deltacloud and a host of others. With various applications and purposes, the majority of these utilities can be mixed and matched in order to build a customized suite of cloud-native apps that meets your exact needs.

Some utilities, such as OpenNebula, allow you to build and manage private cloud frameworks via VMware ESX, Xen, KVM and others. Users who complement OpenNebula with Deltacloud's adopters can even host their own private cloud through Amazon EC2 or any number of other service providers. As you can see, much of the versatility and flexibility seen within the current cloud can be attributed to the open-source nature of its initial design.

Founded in 2000, the Linux Foundation is a non-profit association that promotes, preserves and facilitates Linux-based IT developments in an attempt to benefit all computer users. To find out more information about their mission or any of their causes, including details on The Guide to the Open Cloud, please refer to the official site at www.linuxfoundation.org.