What is Cloud Native?

Cloud native is an application development and deployment methodology designed to exploit the on-demand, limitless computing power found in the cloud, and to leverage the scale, elasticity, resiliency, and flexibility the cloud provides. Whether on a public or private cloud, cloud native applications are composed of independent, discrete, and reusable microservices designed to integrate into any cloud environment. These microservices act as building blocks and are often packaged in highly accessible, scalable, portable containers. Microservices work together to make up an application, yet each can be independently scaled, continuously improved, and quickly iterated through automation and orchestration processes. Cloud native apps run on a continuous delivery model and are dynamically managed in the cloud.

Why is Cloud Native Important?

Cloud native technologies empower organizations to build and run scalable applications in modern, dynamic environments. Combined with automation, they allow engineers to make changes frequently and with minimal effort. Using technologies like Kubernetes and Docker, developers can reduce the number of operational tasks and build applications faster.

Cloud native services give developers a comprehensive, standards-based platform for building, deploying, and managing cloud native applications. The flexibility of each microservice adds to the agility and continuous improvement of cloud native applications. When done properly, cloud native can deliver unprecedented speed, agility, and resilience to app development and management, increasing developer productivity and simplifying operations.

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