Cloud computing has become an essential element in modern IT deployments, offering streamlined operations, enhanced scalability, and innovation across industries. The global public Cloud end-user spending is projected to grow by 21.7% and reach nearly US$600 billion by 2023.

While the cloud has gained widespread adoption, many businesses have not adopted a cloud-only approach. Instead, they have turned to hybrid cloud deployments, combining the scalability of the cloud with the control and cost stability of on-premises systems. Others have embraced a multi-cloud strategy, leveraging different cloud platforms to create a unique IT stack or complement their existing infrastructure.

This preference for hybrid or multi-cloud strategies is driven by the challenge of finding a single cloud provider to meet diverse operational needs and concerns about platform lock-in and cloud outages. As a result, there is a growing need for inter-Cloud Connectivity to manage data across private and public cloud resources, data centers, and corporate networks.

Effective networking is crucial not only for traditional workloads but also for cutting-edge AI and data analytics deployments. With the increasing implementation of AI strategies and ML models, data flows through computer networks at an unprecedented scale. The cloud provides an ideal environment for analytics and AI workloads.

Cloud connectivity offers several benefits for data and AI workloads:
– Data storage and management: The cloud provides easy access to storage and management capabilities for large datasets used in training AI systems.
– Processing power: Renting GPU access through the cloud eliminates the high cost of purchasing GPUs.
– Integration and interoperability: Cloud services offer robust APIs and integration options for seamless data transfer between cloud services and third-party platforms.
– Data ecosystem: Leading data platforms, including SAP Datasphere and Databricks Lakehouse, operate in the cloud.

To achieve better networking and reliable access to the cloud, private connectivity is preferred over the public internet. However, connecting private networks directly to cloud service providers may not be cost-effective. An alternative solution is to partner with a trusted provider for cloud connectivity, leveraging existing MPLS or Premium Internet connections for greater security and reliability.

StarHub Cloud Connect offers enterprises the ability to bypass the public internet and access cloud-based applications and data assets from corporate networks and data centers. Shared Cloud Connect provides access through a shared high-speed virtual private access network, while Dedicated Cloud Connect offers dedicated transmission between customer premises or data centers and leading cloud service providers.

Optimized cloud connectivity is a crucial component of modern IT strategies, empowering enterprises with secure and flexible connectivity for their IT and AI initiatives.

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