Hybrid cloud: Definition, Explanation & Examples

What is a hybrid cloud?

The hybrid cloud describes an IT infrastructure model that combines resources from public clouds, private clouds and often also from traditional on-premises systems. With this architecture, companies can move data and applications flexibly between different environments and thus select the optimum solution for different requirements. Standardised interfaces and management tools make it possible to work efficiently and across different locations. For example, it remains possible to continue to operate particularly sensitive information locally, while dynamically scalable cloud resources can be utilised for temporary load peaks, for example.

Functionality and technical principles

Technically, a hybrid cloud is based on the close integration of established public cloud providers such as AWS, Microsoft Azure or Google Cloud Platform with private cloud infrastructures. These run either in the company's own data centre or with specialist service providers. Communication is coordinated via middleware solutions, application programming interfaces (APIs) and automated tools. In order to enable smooth data and workload migrations, network connections with high bandwidth and low latency are usually used.

Hybrid cloud management ensures smooth operation. Centralised control allows workloads to be distributed flexibly depending on requirements in terms of protection needs, compliance or costs. For example, HR applications and personal data can be maintained on a private cloud, while resource-intensive campaigns are handled in the public cloud. With the help of platforms such as Kubernetes or OpenShift, the provision, monitoring and automatic scaling of various resources is centrally controlled and simplified.

Practical scenarios and areas of application

Hybrid cloud models have proven to be practical in a wide range of industries. Companies with historically grown IT infrastructures in particular utilise the opportunity to integrate modern cloud benefits into existing systems in a targeted manner. In the financial sector, for example, the most sensitive customer information is kept in-house, while non-business-critical applications, such as web portals or short-term analyses, run cost-effectively in the public cloud.

In e-commerce, seasonal load peaks can be efficiently cushioned by temporarily outsourcing individual services ("cloud bursting"): The online shop continues to rely on the tried-and-tested internal infrastructure, while public cloud capacities are automatically switched on when demand is high. The hybrid cloud also opens up new possibilities in development and test environments, as applications can be tested under realistic conditions in different environments before they go live. At the same time, companies benefit from realising the switch to the cloud step by step - so-called "lift and shift" approaches make it possible to take existing systems with you and still use the latest technologies.

Advantages, challenges and recommendations

With a hybrid cloud, companies gain the greatest possible flexibility when choosing the operating location for applications and data. They are able to react quickly to new requirements and optimise costs by using resources in line with demand. At the same time, regulatory requirements and data protection can be implemented efficiently while modern technologies are integrated. There are also benefits from increased reliability, as services and applications can be distributed dynamically between multiple locations.

However, managing hybrid cloud environments places increased demands on organisation and technology. The synchronised orchestration of different platforms, coordinated security concepts and the integration of existing legacy systems require specific expertise. Clear regulations on identity and access management, defined interfaces and the protection of data transfer form the central basis for secure operation. Companies benefit from a step-by-step approach: Pilot projects and gradual introduction simplify the changeover and reduce risks. In this way, the linking of public and private clouds gradually develops into the foundation of modern, agile business models.