Authored by Michael Hollander, Founder and CEO at MOD Mission Critical
Originally posted on MOD Mission Critical
As someone deeply involved in the tech industry, I’ve witnessed the rapid rise and acceptance of public cloud solutions for various computing needs. However, there’s another concept that seems to elude many: the hybrid cloud platform. In reality, the industry is already moving in that direction, with platforms like Equinix Fabric and our very own Cloud Fabric at Flexential showcasing the possibilities. But let’s not stop there; we can explore even more! In this blog, I’ll delve into the benefits and challenges of hybrid cloud platforms, shedding light on the evolving landscape of connectivity and service provisioning.
Addressing Connectivity Costs and Complexities
As an operator, I know firsthand that building and maintaining your own platform can be financially burdensome, despite its advantages for consumers. Connectivity, in particular, remains a major cost in retail colocation. But there’s a smart solution – collaborating with infrastructure providers who have already made substantial investments in connectivity infrastructure. This approach takes the load off cross connects, which account for over 80% of global colocation costs. By leveraging existing infrastructure, businesses can deliver top-notch services while significantly reducing operational expenses.
Navigating the Changing Landscape of Network Providers
In recent times, I’ve noticed the challenges of ordering services and accessing reliable support from network providers, especially for those without a strong technical team. Many providers are now focusing on serving a select group of customers and relying more on channel partners for pre-sales and post-sales support. Moreover, the rising costs of IP Transit and IP Transport no longer align with the traditional retail model. However, I see an opportunity for service providers willing to offer comprehensive support and simplify the customer experience.
The Power of Hybrid Cloud Platforms
Understanding the synergy between hybrid cloud platforms and public clouds (like AWS, Azure, GCP, and OCI) is crucial. This synergy is at the heart of the hybrid cloud concept. When selling colocation services, we must consider where workloads are migrating from. Some workloads thrive in public cloud environments, while others demand the considerations that only a hybrid approach can provide.
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