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Commonly confused · Cloud Computing

Public vs Private vs Hybrid Cloud: What's the Difference?

These are cloud deployment models. Public cloud runs on shared provider infrastructure available to anyone, private cloud is dedicated to one organization, and hybrid cloud connects public and private environments so workloads and data can move between them.

Public Cloud

Full definition
vs

Private Cloud

Full definition
vs

Hybrid Cloud

Full definition
Public CloudPrivate CloudHybrid Cloud
OwnershipCloud providerThe organization or a dedicated hostMix of both
TenancyMultitenantSingle tenantBoth
Cost modelPay as you go (OpEx)Mostly upfront investment (CapEx)Combination
Control and customizationLowestHighestHigh for private parts
ScalabilityNear-unlimitedLimited by owned capacityBurst to public when needed
Typical reasonSpeed and elasticityCompliance, data sovereignty, controlKeep sensitive data on-prem while using public scale
Remember it

Public is a hotel, private is your own house, hybrid is your house with a hotel on speed dial.

Exam tip

Questions about cloud bursting or keeping regulated data on premises while using public services point to hybrid. Community cloud, shared by organizations with common needs, is a frequent distractor.

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