If you are new to the cloud, the terminology and sheer number of options that exist may be daunting at first. We are here to help simplify the process and provide some basics as you navigate choosing safe, secure, and reliable cloud services.
Types of Cloud
You may have heard a lot of talk about the cloud over the last few years, but what does it mean? Here are some cloud definitions:
- Public Cloud: This is a shared, metered, hosting environment typically provided by a vendor such as AWS (Amazon), Azure (Microsoft), Google Cloud Platform (Google). It can be purchased and used by the general public and you can control access to your data and applications, as needed.
- Private Cloud: This is a hosting environment (hardware, storage, network) that is not shared with the general public. It can be built on public cloud services such as AWS or built and run on local infrastructure, often using virtualization software (OpenStack, VMware, etc.) for providing services to internal customers and users.
- Hybrid Cloud: This refers to when an organization has a combination of both on premise (e.g. the campus data center) and public and/or private cloud infrastructure and runs services across them all, allowing the organization to meet specific security, reliability, and regulatory needs.
UCB and UCOP Cloud Offerings
UC Berkeley and UCOP both have existing contracts with Cloud Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS) providers. Please work with your procurement specialists to see how you can leverage these contracts rather than developing and executing new contracts for your needs.
UC Contracts
The best place to find information on services that have an agreement with UC (including Berkeley) is through the Cloud Services at UC website.
Internet2 Net+ Program
The Internet2 NET+ Services program provides Internet2 members such as UC Berkeley and other participating institutions access to an ever-growing catalog of cloud-based services designed or tailored specifically for the research and education community. As an Internet2 member, UC Berkeley can purchase Net+ Cloud products via already vetted contracts, significantly reducing procurement time and resources.
Examples of Net+ products already on campus include:
- Box
- DocuSign
- DuoSecurity
- ServiceNow
- Zoom
Please refer to the complete list of Internet2 Net+ cloud offerings. Note that the Internet 2 Net+ program also provides similar access to other types of software offerings such as Trust and Identity and Networking.
