6 Cloud Computing Trends to Watch Out For in 2021

2020 Has seen the advent of a massive data-driven, app-reliant tech ecosystem that has played a crucial role in helping us manage the changes, disruptions, and tragedies the past year was wrought with.

Cloud computing is the support structure for this ecosystem by handling everything from home delivery services, Contact tracing to remote tracing. In addition, cloud services have revolutionized the way we work by telecommuting.

In 2021, I expect these changes to accelerate as a consistently growing number of enterprises adopt cloud models and deliver data from the Cloud to our devices, forming an increasingly integral part of our daily lives. But that is not all. Read on as I delve into 6 Cloud Computing trends that are sure to gain traction in 2021.

1. Breaking down barriers with a Multi-cloud approach

Even though major cloud providers like Microsoft, Google, and amazon promote their cloud platforms as one-stop-shops that cover all enterprise needs of Cloud, data, and computing resources, an increasingly large number of enterprises have adopted Hybrid or multi-cloud environments.

This means that the aforementioned big players of the cloud market will have to create bridges joining their platforms. The new approach espouses collaboration enabling customers to acquire the advantages of the multi-cloud trend. From allowing enterprises to share data and access with supply chain partners, all of whom are probably working with diverse data standards and applications.

2. AI will boost Cloud computing efficiency

Today Cloud services allow users of all budgets and skill levels to access advanced ML functions like image recognition and recommendation engines. Come 2021; Cloud tech will deploy these innovative toolsets to an even larger number of enterprises regardless of their size or industry vertical, leading to enhanced efficiency and productivity.

Fields of research, like self-driving cars, smart city infrastructure, as well as disaster and pandemic response planning, will experience the effects of smarter algorithms deployed through the Cloud. In cloud data centers, AI algorithms can manage speed and efficiency, cooling systems, hardware networks, and power usage optimally while minimizing their impact on the environment.

3. Gaming will be delivered from the Cloud

Bittersweet news awaits gaming aficionados. Consoles like the Xbox and Playstation may soon be outmoded. Just as music and video streaming have caught on, 2021 will see the advent of cloud gaming.

In 2020, behemoths like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Nvidia have launched cloud gaming platforms offering instant access to vast libraries of games accessible through a monthly subscription. Therefore, it is clear that In 2021 cloud gaming is poised to revolutionize the way we consume entertainment media.

4. Hybrid and on-premise clouds will grow in popularity

Some organizations have faced the challenge of choosing between public, private, or hybrid cloud environments. But as cloud ecosystems mature, enterprises have realized that the one-size-fits-all solutions available are best steered clear of.

Enterprises have now begun to opt for Hybrid or multi-cloud environments where the user can pick and choose among the service provider’s offerings and only utilize the tools and components they need, causing service providers to reassess their delivery models.

2021 Is sure to witness cloud providers catering to the need for multiple platforms and approaches within a business. E.g., The utilization of a public cloud for content delivery, storage, and customer data processing via a private or on-premise solution.

I also believe that the demand for “bare metal” cloud space, i.e., raw compute power and storage space, will increase in 2021. Such a cloud space allows enterprises to effortlessly lift and shift their systems to the Cloud without adapting to pre-installed software or services.

5. The rise of Virtual Cloud Desktops

A virtual cloud desktop is a managed cloud service deployed to your device screen with the entirety of your workstation environment. Organizations can now benefit from by-the-hour subscriptions eliminating hardware update costs and the disposal of obsolete technology.

Using a virtual cloud desktop increases efficiency across the workforce by keeping every-one in the loop and on the same page. Devices can be centrally managed, boosting security. The flexible functionalities of a virtual cloud desktop are only going to add more credibility and popularity.

6. Kubernetes and containers

Over the last few years, data containers have been consistently used for cloud application development. The rise of Kubernetes has added to the increase of container usage even in private clouds.

A report by the IDC states that in 2021, 95% of all micro-services will be deployed in containers. Data containers automate management, scaling, deployment, and networking, allowing organizations to improve efficiency, save on costs, and speed up application development. From our perspective, Containers are only going to grow in popularity in 2021.

Summing up

2021 is all set to continue the trend of all enterprises, big or small, besotted with digital transformations. With the emergence of cloud technology and all its numerous service offerings and capabilities like multi-cloud computing and increased usage of Artificial intelligence and Machine Learning in business operations, most organizations are well on the path to the 4th industrial revolution.