Multi-Cloud in 2024

Selecting the right cloud infrastructure—be it multi-cloud, hybrid-cloud, VMs, or bare-metal—hinges on specific workload requirements and the scale of service operations across various regions. This DEV article by Michael Levan delves into multi-cloud strategies, utilizing different clouds for diverse services or regions, and integrates the efficiency of Dell’s APEX storage, which boasts cost savings and multi-cloud capabilities. While Dell APEX offers considerable storage improvements, the decision to switch from standard cloud storage solutions may depend on the scale of the enterprise and specific storage needs.


Performance Optimization (Platform 9 Edition)

Performance optimization is critical for ensuring the efficiency and efficacy of applications, whether they are deployed on the cloud, using bare metal, or with Kubernetes, as highlighted by Michael Levan. At the heart of performance optimization are three key questions regarding the expected performance, knowledge of how applications are performing, and data to understand this performance, all of which are addressed in this insightful blog post. Platform 9 offers tools like Proactive Ops and Elastic Machine Pool (EMP) to aid in these efforts, providing a robust management plane and smart scaling solutions to maintain optimal resource utilization and reduce costs.


Boosting ML and AI Workloads (Neuroblade)

To hasten the development of Large Language Models and AI/ML workloads, NeuroBlade’s innovative SPU hardware, pluggable into a PCIe slot, promises to amplify existing GPU capabilities by around 30%. As computational demands escalate, particularly for the training of intelligent models, the SPU aims to significantly boost server performance, potentially relieving some pressure from the surging GPU market. To Michael Levan, this advancement serves as a testament to Neuroblade’s commitment to accelerating the pace at which AI and ML technologies evolve and become more efficient.


Hybrid and Private Cloud (Enter Softiron)

As businesses re-evaluate cloud strategies, the concept of cloud repatriation becomes increasingly relevant, making the case for bringing select workloads back to private datacenters. Key to a successful private cloud strategy is the ability to scale; solutions offered by companies like SoftIron facilitate scaling out to public clouds, ensuring flexibility and extending storage capabilities beyond on-prem limitations. Read on in this DEV Community article by Michael Levan.


Day Two Cloud 198: Modern Cloud Design Themes From CFD 17

Day Two Cloud’s Ned Bellavance, Ethan Banks, and Michael Levan highlight some key design themes at Cloud Field Day 17, hosted by Tech Field Day. These themes include platform engineering, data protection, disaster recovery, and the co-existence of old and new technologies in modern IT. Kubernetes’ growing status as the default platform choice was mentioned. Backup and disaster recovery solutions by HYCU, Zerto, and others bridge the gap between on-prem and cloud environments. Listen to this episode to learn more!


Cloud Field Day 17 Recap

Michael Levan gives an overview of Cloud Field Day 17, which included several innovative platforms useful for cloud computing and modernization. Platforms like HYCU, Morpheus Data, and RackN offer self-service and integration to aid in orchestration and provide better support. Zerto is a comprehensive VMware-based platform with backups based on detection and real-time alerting; Couchbase offers a vendor-agnostic NoSQL solution for cost optimization, and JetStream Software is an essential Disaster Recovery tool.


Michael Levan

Kubernetes and Containerization Thought Leader, Engineer, Content Creator, and Consultant