Difference Between Cloud Computing And Fog Computing

There is a growing need for computing solutions that provide robust and secure data hosting environments. In this context, cloud and fog computing plays a major role in providing a secure and efficient infrastructure that supports the tremendous need for data hosting and accessing from anywhere around the globe using an internet connection.

In this blog, we will discuss the differences between cloud computing and fog computing with their basic definition, how they work, and their types.

A] Introduction To Cloud Computing

1. What Is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing is a service that manages and provides access to cloud services like data storage, cloud-based software, and databases over the Internet. Cloud computing removes the need for physical storage devices and stores the data on cloud-based physical servers that can be accessed through the Internet.

2. How Does Cloud Computing Work?

Cloud computing works on three levels, front-end, back-end, and central server end. The first end facilitates the user to interact with their hosted data through the cloud-based application or software over the internet. The back-end handles the data storing process more securely and efficiently. The back-end also looks after the security of the cloud data and protects those data from potential threats. The central server follows some set of rules to connect the end user’s device to the cloud seamlessly.

3. Types Of Cloud Computing 

There are three types of cloud computing based on the deployment model and those are:

• Private Cloud

A private cloud is used for single-entity enterprises where data is stored in their private cloud server inside their promises. Since the private cloud server is installed on their premises, it offers several facilities like customised architecture, advanced security protocols, and the ability to extend the cloud resources as per their needs.

• Public Cloud

The public cloud is a shared cloud service that provides shared computing capacity and shared storage capacity on the same cloud server. Public cloud servers are a great option for businesses with fluctuating user bases. Since cloud service providers (CSPs) have the sole proprietary over the public cloud, they manage all the security and data storage concerns.

• Hybrid Cloud

A hybrid cloud is a combination of both a private cloud and a public cloud. It offers enterprises a dual solution of hosting their data on the cloud. It allows enterprises to host their data on the cloud while keeping the critical data on their private cloud server.

B] Introduction To Fog Computing

1. What Is Fog Computing?

Fog computing brings enterprises data on the edge of their networks while offering flexibility to store and access needed data on the cloud. Fog computing reduces the latency and mitigates the security concerns related to critical business data. Fog computing is used to connect IoT (Internet of Things) devices seamlessly to get real-time responses.

2. How Does Fog Computing Work?

Fog computing uses local devices (IoTs) and edge networks to host the raw data to the fog server close to edge networks. In this process, raw data is collected by the IoT devices and further sent to fog nodes located near the edge networks. Here, data is analysed, filtered and sent to the cloud, if necessary.

3. Types Of Fog Computing 

There are four types of fog computing based on the level of data storage model and those are:

• Device-Level fog Computing

Device-level fog computing utilises low-powered hardware such as sensors, switches, and other devices to collect the raw data and further send that data to the fog devices for analysis.

• Edge-Level Fog Computing

Edge-level fog computing is used to process and analyse the raw data before it is sent to the cloud server. The data is primarily stored close to the edge of networks.

• Gateway-Level Fog Computing 

Gateway-level fog computing acts to form a bridge or gateway between edge and cloud. The gateway keeps on checking to eliminate the chances of hosting sensitive data on the cloud.

• Cloud-Level Fog Computing

Cloud-level fog computing utilises appliances to check and analyse the data before presenting it to the end users.

C] The Key Difference Between Cloud And Fog Computing 

Although, both serve nearly the same purpose. However, there are major differences between fog and cloud computing in terms of data processing, storage capacity, data privacy, and security. So, let’s look at the major comparison of fog vs cloud computing:

1. Data Processing

Cloud computing processes data at a large scale due to its large hardware settings. Cloud computing has the power to compute data at a large scale and can store a tremendous amount of data on its server.

Fog computing processes data at a lower scale where fog nodes and IOT devices are used to do so. This technology can process the data on a real-time basis and analyse that data at the edge of the network. It reduces the need to host the data on the cloud to process and analyse.

2. Storage Capacity

Cloud computing can store an unlimited amount of data virtually. It offers significantly fast and quick data storage that can be accessed from anywhere around the globe using an internet connection. Cloud computing mitigates the risk of critical data loss and secures the enterprise’s data from potential risks.

Fog computing offers a decent amount of storage capacity. Although, it lags in providing data storage capacity as compared to cloud computing. Fog computing is used to host an enterprise’s critical data within the range of its edge of networks.

3. Data Privacy And Security 

Cloud computing has potential issues with security and data privacy as the data is hosted on a remote server away from the enterprise premises. Cloud service providers in India (CSPs) do take proactive measures such as encryption and access control to ensure the safety of data. However, the safety of your data lastly depends on the infractures of the cloud storage provider.

Fog computing offers robust data privacy and security for critical and sensitive enterprises’ data. Since fog computing stores data that is fully controlled by the owner and thus it mitigates the chances of leaking or misusing. Apart from that, if you are searching for a server that hosts your Tally on the cloud, look for some essential services like nearly 100% uptime, daily backups, and quick support.

Conclusion 

Cloud and fog computing both are excellent ways to store and analyse your data at very high speed. These computing technologies provide a robust infrastructure for hosting one’s data on the cloud without investing tons of money in hardware and software configuration. However, after comparing cloud vs fog, we can conclude that both have advantages and drawbacks, it is advised to choose these services as per individual’s needs and expectations.

Absolute Cloud is a leading cloud computing solution provider that offers dedicated servers, Tally on the cloud, enterprise backup solutions, and more at affordable cost. Contact us today to learn more about our services.