Summary

The cloud computing landscape is undergoing a significant shift with the emergence of "microclouds." These smaller, agile providers are challenging the monopoly of the big three cloud giants by offering specialized services. With offerings ranging from AI-optimized cloud environments to sovereign and regional solutions, microclouds represent an attractive option for enterprises seeking customized, cost-effective cloud solutions. This article explores the different categories of microclouds, their unique benefits, and how they are reshaping cloud computing strategies.

biography

With over 30 years of experience in enterprise technology, David Linthicum is a globally recognized thought leader, innovator, and influencer in cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity. He is the author of over 17 best-selling books, over 7,000 articles, and 50 courses on LinkedIn Learning. In addition, he is a frequent keynote speaker, podcast host, and media contributor on the topics of digital transformation, cloud architecture, AI, and cloud security.

Reference(s) for this video:

https://www.infoworld.com/article/2334859/9-low-rent-cloud-providers-to-challenge-aws-azure-and-gcp.html

https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2024/08/23/how-lidl-accidentally-took-on-the-big-guns-of-cloud-computing/

Where to find me:

My Gen AI Architecture course on GoCloudCareers:

https://www.gocloudarchitects.com/generative-ai-architect-program-enrollment-david-linthicum

My InfoWorld blog: https://www.infoworld.com/author/David-Linthicum/

Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidlinthicum/

Follow me on X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidlinthicum

My LinkedIn learning courses: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/instructors/david-linthicum

My latest book: https://www.amazon.com/Insiders-Guide-Cloud-Computing/dp/0137935692/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3OGP6IPZ7XHKA&keywords=David+Linthicum&qid=1704395835&sprefix=david+linthicum%2Caps%2C165&sr=8-1
Video Sponsorship Opportunities: Email me at [mail protected]

Discussion points:

Outline:
1. 100,000 subscribers… Thank you!
2. Introduction: The Age of Microclouds
• Define microclouds and their role in the cloud computing ecosystem.
• Highlight the emergence of microclouds as a viable alternative to the three major cloud providers.
• The normalization of the public cloud market and now the expansion of microclouds.
3. LiDL Cloud. 02:50
• https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2024/08/23/how-lidl-accidentally-took-on-the-big-guns-of-cloud-computing/
4. Here are examples of microclouds, including a brief summary: 04:41
• CoreWeave: CoreWeave specializes in delivering cloud solutions optimized for AI and machine learning workloads. The company offers powerful GPU resources that are particularly useful for enterprises that require high-performance computing capacity for data-intensive applications.
• Lambda Laboratories:
• Canonical MicroCloud:
• Scaleway: .
• DigitalOcean:
• Linode (now part of Akamai):
5. AI clouds with GPU offerings. 08:53
• Discuss how microclouds address the needs of AI and machine learning by offering GPU-intensive solutions.
• Examples of companies like CoreWeave and Lambda Labs that lead this category.
• Benefits of using microclouds for AI, such as customization and optimized performance.
6. Sovereign and regional clouds. 10:34
• Explain the importance of sovereign clouds for data sovereignty and regional compliance.
• Explore how regional microcloud providers address local regulatory requirements and latency issues.
• Case studies of successful implementations in different regions.
7. Low-cost clouds with limited capacity
• Investigate microclouds, which offer reduced features at a lower price compared to large cloud providers.
• Benefits for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups.
• Discuss Canonical’s MicroCloud as an example of a low-effort, open source cloud solution 6 .
8. Strategic advantages of microclouds. 11:38
• Flexibility and agility in deployment and scaling.
• Better control over data protection and security.
• Improved customer support and service customization.
9. Challenges and considerations. 13:16
• Potential risks of using microclouds, such as limited geographic coverage and fewer resources compared to large providers.
• Strategies for selecting the right microcloud provider based on specific business requirements.
10. Future prospects for microclouds. 14:31
• Predicting future trends in the microcloud market.
• Explore potential innovations and technological advances that could further enhance the microcloud offering.
11. Conclusion. 15:54
• Summarize the growing importance of microclouds in diversifying cloud service options.
• Encourage organizations to evaluate microcloud solutions as part of their cloud strategy to achieve tailored benefits and cost savings.

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