From Bare Metal to the Cloud: High-Level Architecture Introduction

In our previous articles, we introduced the NIST definition of the cloud. Starting today, we will dive into the main topic: a step-by-step guide on how to build a cloud from bare metal. First, I will provide a general overview of the cloud architecture I plan to build.

IaaS Layer

The IaaS Layer of this cloud will use OpenStack to provide services. The reasons for this choice are as follows:

  • OpenStack is currently the most common choice for private clouds
  • Mature development with a large user base, suitable for scales ranging from small to large
  • Open Source
  • Open Source
  • Open Source

Open source is the most important factor, which is why I've listed it three times. Because it is open source, the software is easily accessible and free to use (under the Apache License). This allows readers to easily follow along with the implementation steps.

PaaS Layer

The PaaS Layer will use Kubernetes to provide services. The reasons for this choice are as follows:

  • The most common container orchestration platform today
  • All major public clouds provide managed services for it
  • Mature basic features, a large user base, and scalability from small to large.
  • Open Source
  • Open Source
  • Open Source

I believe many readers already have experience with Kubernetes. This series will also include a tutorial on how to set up Kubernetes on OpenStack and integrate them using the OpenStack Cloud Provider.

Summary

This article introduced the cloud architecture we will be building from scratch. The next post will begin introducing OpenStack, covering its architecture, services, components within each service, and more. Stay tuned.

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