Cloud based versus Cloud Native

If you are developing or deploying applications in the cloud, you may have heard of the terms cloud based and cloud native. But what do they mean and how are they different? In this blog post, we will explore the definitions, benefits and challenges of these two approaches to cloud computing.

Cloud based applications are applications that run on the cloud, but are not necessarily designed for the cloud. They may have been developed using traditional methods and architectures, such as monolithic or client-server, and then migrated or lifted-and-shifted to the cloud. Cloud based applications can take advantage of some cloud features, such as scalability, availability and elasticity, but they may not be able to leverage them fully or efficiently. For example, a cloud based application may require manual scaling or configuration, or it may incur higher costs due to overprovisioning or underutilization of resources.

Cloud native applications are applications that are designed and built for the cloud from the ground up. They use cloud-based technologies and services, such as containers, microservices, serverless functions, APIs and managed services, to create applications that are modular, distributed, resilient and scalable. Cloud native applications can make the most of the cloud's capabilities, such as automation, orchestration, observability and security, by following best practices and principles such as DevOps, CI/CD, 12-factor and SRE. Cloud native applications can also run on any cloud platform or environment, whether public, private or hybrid, without requiring major changes.

The main difference between cloud based and cloud native applications is how they leverage the cloud's characteristics and benefits. Cloud based applications run on the cloud, but may not be optimized for it. Cloud native applications are built for the cloud, and can adapt to it dynamically and efficiently.

Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages. Cloud based applications can be easier and faster to migrate to the cloud, especially if they already exist or have legacy dependencies. They can also provide a consistent user experience across different platforms or devices. However, cloud based applications may face challenges such as performance issues, compatibility problems, security risks or vendor lock-in.

Cloud native applications can offer higher performance, reliability, scalability and cost-effectiveness in the cloud. They can also enable faster innovation and delivery of new features and updates. However, cloud native applications may require more skills and resources to develop and maintain. They may also introduce complexity and challenges in areas such as testing, debugging, monitoring or governance.

Choosing between cloud based and cloud native applications depends on various factors, such as your business goals, technical requirements, budget constraints and time frame. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for every scenario. You may also opt for a hybrid or multi-cloud approach that combines both types of applications to suit your needs.

In conclusion, cloud based and cloud native are two different ways of developing and deploying applications in the cloud. They have different implications for how you design, build, manage and use your applications in the cloud environment. Understanding their differences can help you make informed decisions and achieve your desired outcomes in the cloud.