What is the role of virtualization in cloud computing?

Virtualization is the fundamental technology that powers cloud computing. It allows a single physical server to be partitioned into multiple virtual machines (VMs), each with its own operating system and applications. This enables cloud providers to offer on-demand computing resources to their customers in a cost-effective and scalable way.

Compare SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS models.

SaaS (Software as a Service): The cloud provider manages everything, and the customer simply uses the software. Example: Google Docs.

PaaS (Platform as a Service): The cloud provider manages the infrastructure, and the customer manages the applications and data. Example: Google App Engine.

IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): The cloud provider manages the physical infrastructure, and the customer manages the operating system, applications, and data. Example: Google Compute Engine.

How do mobile applications use REST APIs?

Mobile applications use REST APIs to communicate with backend services. The mobile app acts as the client and sends HTTP requests to the API endpoints to fetch data from the server or to send data to be stored on the server. The data is typically exchanged in a lightweight format like JSON.

What is containerization, and how does it differ from virtualization?

Containerization: A lightweight form of virtualization where applications are run in isolated user spaces called containers, all sharing the same host operating system.

Virtualization: Involves creating a virtual version of a physical server, including a virtual CPU, memory, and storage. Each virtual machine has its own guest operating system.

The main difference is that containerization virtualizes the operating system, while virtualization virtualizes the hardware. This makes containers more lightweight and portable than virtual machines.

Discuss security challenges in cloud computing.

Some of the key security challenges in cloud computing include:

• Data Breaches: The unauthorized access and exfiltration of sensitive data.
• Insecure APIs: APIs that are not properly secured can be a major entry point for attackers.
• Insider Threats: Malicious insiders can abuse their access to steal data or disrupt services.
• Shared Tenancy: The multi-tenant nature of the cloud can create security risks if not properly managed.

Explain mobile edge computing and its applications.

Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) is a network architecture concept that enables cloud computing capabilities and an IT service environment at the edge of the cellular network. By running applications and performing related processing tasks closer to the cellular customer, MEC technology reduces latency and network congestion.

Applications:

• IoT: Processing data from IoT devices at the edge to reduce latency and bandwidth usage.
• Augmented Reality (AR): Providing the low latency required for real-time AR experiences.
• Connected Cars: Enabling real-time communication between vehicles and infrastructure.