Any discussion about digital transformation is closely linked to the adoption of a new approach to developing and launching applications called cloud-native applications (CNA). In this article, we will learn what cloud-native applications are, the benefits of opting for cloud-native applications, and which industries stand to gain from this new technology.
Cloud-Native: What Is It and How Can It Benefit Your Company?
The term “cloud-native” describes an architecture where applications are designed, built, and managed on cloud infrastructure using microservice architecture. This method includes applications built and run exclusively in the cloud, applications that will thus have rapid scalability, a high degree of automation and superior resilience to disasters and errors.
Cloud-native apps are built around microservice architecture. Each application involves a collection of small services that can be operated independently. Each such microservice belongs to a team of developers who work individually to program, develop, launch, or scale a service.
Moreover, CNAs are containerized so that they can run on a variety of servers. These containers further isolate the microservices—making applications scalable, accessible, and easy to migrate from one environment to another. Another plus for CNA is that, by running on a continuous delivery model in the cloud, developers and IT teams can work concurrently on application testing and updates without affecting each other’s work or the end-users’ interactions with the application. Such a model encourages DevOps methodology—a model that effectively manages the operational and deployment side of the cloud.
When successfully implemented, CNAs can support agility and resilience in the application development and management processes. Not only do they boost productivity in the release of applications, but they also reduce operational complexity. Thus, new apps and services can go live as soon as they are ready to launch with no additional worries about teams still tweaking various aspects, and zero impact on user experiences.
Key Features of Cloud-Native Apps
Although similar to regular or cloud-based software applications, cloud-native applications are developed by keeping cloud computing architecture in mind.
Companies adopt cloud computing to increase the scalability and availability of these applications. As a result, these applications are built and updated quickly and delivered continuously—thereby increasing the quality level and reducing the risks faced by companies.
More specifically, running cloud-native applications is a way for businesses to run responsive and fault-tolerant applications, whether on public, private, or hybrid clouds.
One of the key benefits of cloud-native apps is the lack of operating system concerns. In the cloud, you don’t need to worry about operating system maintenance or architecture.
In fact, cloud-native applications are much more predictable, and a team of developers will find it easier to approach the development, release, and updating of such an applications compared to a traditional application.
Cloud-Native vs. Cloud-Based Apps
Most often, the terms cloud-native and cloud-based applications are used interchangeably, but that is a mistake. While they both run on public, private or hybrid cloud infrastructures, they are very different when it comes to design.
Cloud-based applications are designed to use the cloud and cloud platforms. These apps may use dynamic cloud infrastructure, but do not take full advantage of the basic characteristics of the cloud.
Cloud-native applications are designed specifically for the cloud and are optimized for its essential characteristics. Cloud-native apps are adaptable to the cloud’s dynamic environment.
Key Benefits of Cloud-Native Operations
From optimizing IT equipment and resources to an entire digital transformation process, the cloud-native architecture comes with numerous development possibilities, and is easily adaptable for any industry.
Short application release time. Compared to a traditional application, CNA gives you maximum flexibility through an uninterrupted delivery flow—a benefit that can make the difference between an innovative organization and the competition.
Easy to manage. Cloud infrastructure becomes a much more manageable task for the IT and development teams.
Reduced costs. The cloud-native system is more cost-effective—with services paid for as they are used, thereby ensuring you only pay for the resources consumed and nothing else.
Reliable systems and application uptime. In the cloud, incidents and errors can be easily isolated through microservices, as opposed to traditional application downtime that comes at quite the hefty cost once systems are down.
Increased security. CNAs benefit from specific security for each process, which ensures increased data security.
Which Industries Perform Best in a Cloud-Native Environment?
Cloud-native is synonymous with speed and agility, focus on development, and doing away with infrastructure management. It implies a business model based on cutting-edge infrastructure and a focus on business innovation driven by cloud-available functions. These include big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.
For any industry, a cloud-native application portfolio means moving from simple users to digital service providers. Such an ecosystem can benefit startups and corporations alike, opening further opportunities for digital collaboration.
