Author: Edmund Iyamu

How MySQL Reigns as Nigeria’s Premier Database Choice

MySQL Database Concept

MySQL which stands as Number one amongst other databases has always remained as Nigeria’s premier database choice for businesses.

In this context, any organized storage, management and easy retrieval of DATA either in a small, medium, or large quantity is the simplest form of understanding what a database represents.

Databases are essential for managing and leveraging your data effectively across a wide range of businesses such as the one you are running presently, enabling the organization and individuals to make informed decisions, improve efficiency, get prompt reports to drive innovation.

MySQL is designed for startup to large enterprise with same effect and impact on that business with some easy-to-use functionalities i.e. having front-end Application using (SQL Developer)

We are going to be sharing a piece put together by Eiybase Solutions on

  1. MySQL Database Life Cycle
  2. Features of MySQL Database and how it relates with Nigeria Businesses
  3. Who needs a Database?
  4. Why is MySQL Database best for Nigerians?
  5. How will MySQL Database make business more efficient and effective?
  6. Requirements for setting up MySQL Database
  7. Community of developers and contributors in Nigeria
  8. A Case Study of MySQL Database Implementation

With this, i urge you to take a step in designing a database for your organization

MySQL Life Cycle 

  1. Create – Database, Tables
  2. Insert – Populate data into tables of the database
  3. Update – Change data within the entire database or a specific table
  4. Delete – Remove data/record if any need arise
  5. Generate report – To produce a presentable paper-work mainly for decision making

MySQL Features and how it relates with Nigeria Businesses

  1. MySQL has high performance on storage and fetching of data with fast query execution.
  2. Nigeria businesses has more than 90% trust using MySQL due to its stability, data integrity with on-time availability.
  3. The risk of losing data associated with the integration of MySQL database in Nigeria businesses has drastically reduced
  4. Optimization of Data backup and recovery mechanism with cloud storage
  5. It is a relational database because it organizes data into tables that is consisting of rows and columns

Who needs a Database?

A database is usually needed by individual or group of persons who is into any form of business activities.  It can either be trading, services, manufacturing, non-profitable etc.

Why need MySQL Database?

  1. Trading – MySQL Database is needed to keep records of sales e.g. Supermarket, fuel-stations, Drug stores, Restaurants,
  2. Services – With no database, your services rendered may not have track of your activities
  3. Manufacturing – Raw materials purchased with quantities, goods produced, supplied should be documented electronically
  4. Non-profitable Organization – organizations are businesses that exist to serve a social or public cause, rather than generating profits for their owners. Every event carried out should be stored properly.
Why is MySQL best in Nigeria?

As Nigerians seek robust and affordable database solutions for their applications and systems; MySQL is a popular choice and here is why it became the best in Nigeria

  1. Open source software capability – Anyone can use and modify the software. MySQL software is downloadable from the internet and used without paying for it. You can also change its source code to suit your needs thereby eliminate licensing fees
  2. Compatibility with popular programming languages, frameworks, and platforms – PHP, Python, Java, JavaScript, Perl, Ruby etc.
  3. Ease of Use – MySQL is known for its ease of installation, configuration, and administration, making it accessible to developers and administrators and finally offers user-friendly tools, utilities, and graphical interfaces for managing databases, monitoring performance, and optimizing queries all with varying levels of expertise.
  4. Cost effectiveness – Low ownership costs thereby reduces overall expenses and freeing up resources to invest in other areas of your business
  5. It can be designed for both Startups to Large enterprises
  6. Security wise– User accounts can be created with unique usernames and passwords and privileges granted or revoked to control access to specific databases, tables, or their operations.

It also supports data encryption at various levels, including encryption of data in transit and encryption of data at rest

How is MySQL Database make business more efficient?

With MySQL Database integrated into that business, the following are end-result;

  1. MySQL allows you to organize your business data into structured tables, making it easier to store, manage, and access information.
  2. With MySQL, you can quickly retrieve the data you need for decision-making, analysis, and reporting, leading to improved operational efficiency.
  3. You can streamline workflows, eliminate manual tasks, and improve overall productivity.
Requirements for setting up MySQL Database

A Database system is like a standard computer system parts but with some additional peripheral components such as

  1. Server System – It is known to be a computer that renders services and functionalities to other computers (client systems) within a network. Server systems are made of –

Hardware: RAM, storage drive (HDDs or SSDs)

Operating System: This are optimized only for server tasks, e.g. Windows Server, Linux distributions (Ubuntu Server, CentOS, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux), UNIX variants (FreeBSD or Solaris).

Software: Amongst them is a database server that is MySQL

Networking: A Server can be connected to LANs, WANs, or the Internet, according on the role and function of the network design.

Services and Functionality: It can be data storage, retrieval, access control, remote access and administration, data backup and recovery etc.

Additionally, purchasing storage from the cloud using AWS; amazon web services help you to Set Up, Operate and Scale Relational Databases in the Cloud.

  1. Router/Switch (Cisco product most preferable) –

Routers: are essential for directing traffic between different networks, such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), or the Internet and it usually operates at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model

MySQL Database device for eith LAN or WAN connection

Switch: operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model. Switch allows connection of multiple devices within a local area network (LAN). Its primary aim is to reducing collisions and congestion on the network

  1. Ethernet Cable (CAT 6) – A networking cable that transmit data from one system to another

MySQL Database Sever system connection using Cat 6 Cable

4. UPS/Inverter Installation – Power backup in the case of disruption of power system. It avoids connectivity breach

Other Components are;

  1. Desktop Monitor
  2. Mouse
  3. Keyboard
Community of Developers and Contributors in Nigeria
  1. Mr. Kazeem Olajide – The MD of Unique Technologies who is also consultant to Edo State Government on Database Design and Management

We have a direct contact, reaching out to us can lead you to the Managing Director of Unique Technologies.

  1. Eiybase Technologies – Eiybase Solutions led Mr. Edmund Iyamu and other vibrant team members.

Our constant aim is job fulfillment, accomplishment, contributions to the society. We are here for you and you can contact us for any category of database designs

  1. UpWork: A team of experienced developers committed to providing top-notch MySQL development services.

They offer comprehensive solutions tailored to your unique business needs.

A Case Study of MySQL Database Implementation

One amongst many others is the Edo State Government of Nigeria. Until 2009, the state manually processes data especially in terms of payment of salaries. Database was created for workers of the State and when this was completed;

  1. The State could save back funds from double salaries for workers who were receiving wages from multiple Ministry/Agencies/Departments across the State.
  2. They could detect ghost workers who were not coming to work but earning free wages. Remember, no free lunch even in free town.
  3. Edo began its digitalization process from that step taken and lots of other benefits

Suspended Ceiling Wonders: Unleash Its Potential Designs

Installation of Suspended Ceiling

Suspended Ceiling Overview

Suspended ceiling wonders can unleash its designs beginning with the creation of combined metal channels such as 4feet, 2feet, wall angle, main runner, which is suspended by slings.

Its materials are eco-friendly that is often designed to meet fire safety standards and regulations, providing an additional layer of protection in case of fire emergencies.

It also allows the integration of various lighting fixtures, e.g. recessed lights, LED panels, etc.

One of the great features of suspended ceiling is that it can be used in building such as commercial, residential, or institutional structures.

Finally, it offers a versatile and cost-effective solution for achieving architectural excellence and design innovation. Thereby we are here to provide a comprehensive overview of the potential designs and suspended ceilings wonders, helping clients (organizations, individuals) and stakeholders make informed decisions for their projects.

Various Designs According to Experts

This talks loud about the patterns to which the suspended ceiling can be installed. Designs could be in the following layouts;

Grid – Its arrangement is presented with square or rectangular tiles

Linear – This layout design is parallel in nature, such as strips or lines thereby creating a dynamic visual effect.

Geometric – Here, you bring together tiles of different shapes and sizes. Often this layout creates the beauty or art of suspended ceiling

Benefits of Using Suspended Ceiling

Let us assume you have a space either an office, church hall, event centers, residential, conference hall, etc. that you are yet to decide what kind of ceiling board to use.

With the numerous benefits outline below but limited, you should have a re-think and consider using suspended ceiling

  • Suspended ceilings offer flexibility – Creating room for various designs and easy modification
  • Additional layer of protection in case of fire emergencies – They are fire-resistant materials that comply with building regulations
  • Durability and Quality
  • Suspended ceiling materials are certified
  • Cost-effectiveness – Material costs, installation expenses, and long-term maintenance savings which its traditional options (wood ceiling, plaster ceiling, tin ceiling) cannot provide
  • Maintenance – Easy access to the space above the ceiling for maintenance and repairs.
5 Latest Types You Should Know

Suspended ceilings can give your space a be-fitting look that give uniqueness or standard that will make client(s) rush in for reservations of their proposed events like seminars, wedding receptions, birthday parties, official meetings etc.

As you explore the wonders of suspended, here are the latest and current types of suspended ceiling your hall should install due to their respective features, beauty and installation methods

  1. Acoustic Ceiling Tiles – They are made of mineral fibers with high fiberglass, wood, metal. It is best used for sound absorption and reduce noise level within the space it is installed
  2. Metal grid ceilings – These ceilings are placed within the grid thereby providing a clean and modern art within the space it is installed.
  3. Gypsum board ceilings – These are laminated board with long durability due to its laminated nature. There are colored & plain (white) Gypsum
  4. FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) ceilings – They are mainly light-weight, durable, and resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew ceiling. Although, all types of suspended ceilings are light-weight but FRP are more preferred as a light-weight ceiling.
  5. Mineral fiber ceilings – These ceiling tiles are made from mineral wool fibers compressed into panels and offer excellent sound absorption

3 Top Retailer’s Shop of Suspended Ceilings to visit for Purchase

  1. TianGe Group: It was founded in 2008 and the first-rate acoustics decoration integrated solution service provider in China
  2. ASME Acoustics 
  3. Portable Partitions Australia

For more information about the best suspended ceiling for your space, kindly contact us

Sound Engineering: 2024 Tips for Mastering Digitalized Mix

The coverage of this topic which focuses on proven tips to mastering your mix for digitalized sound production.

It is for every aspiring sound engineer and music producer for gainful, valuable insights and techniques to achieve productive and commendable digital sound/music production from your digitalized mix

Team carrying out digitalized mix

Structural Concept of Digitalized Mix

This aspect forms the mastering foundation for organizing and managing audio elements within a digital audio project,establishing a creative expression.

The lack of understanding of the structural aspect is the missing link in mastering that desired quality sound production.

But you have come to that end as you take a bend for proper enlightenment with proven tips and become a successful and productive sound engineer.

First, know your equipment(s) that is most relevant in setting up a professional audio sound system according to experts. They are as follows;

Electrical Equipment

Console Mixer:  It is the mixing board that helps to control all related connections of the other equipment used during your setup.

The pleasure in mastering sound production is determined by how knowledgeable you are with a console mixer.

Digital Mixer best for Digitalized mix

Powered Amplifier: The Amplifier generates the signal waves that enter into your speakers. The volume level of your speaker is majorly defined by the volume level of your amplifier

Processors (Speaker Management System): This is a digital device that comprises of Equalizer (EQ), Compressor, Gates and Dynamic Threshold. It is a refined version of the traditional processor because speaker management system is an all in one built

Powerful tool for your digitalized mix

Speakers (Non-Electrical Equipment)

Loud Speakers: This kind of speakers are known as Front of House (FoH) that plays output sound to the audience and are usually light weight production such as vocals, keyboard, lead guitar, drum sets expect for your drum kick

The beauty of Arrays is the techniques that is embedded. It is best option for your digitalized mix
Array Speakers

Monitor Speakers: They are usually smaller speakers that are connected to specific instrument, vocal, or even the stage.

It does not allow general mix output from the speaker

Sub-woofer Speakers: They are heavy weight speakers that mainly produce the bass-like sound such as from drum kick, bass guitar, talking drums

Power Devices

Grounding Device – It ensures safety, minimizes noise, preserves signal integrity, and protects audio equipment, contributing to high-quality audio performance in professional audio systems.

Load Manager -This serve as a crucial component that manages electrical loads, optimizing signal flow, and protecting audio equipment from damage, thereby ensures reliable and high-quality audio performance.

Direct Injection Box (DI-Box) – It convert high impedance unbalanced signals into low impedance balanced signals on instruments such as lead & bass guitars, keyboard

Physical Requirement

Room Acoustics: This component is a major requirement that helps to minimize reflections and unwanted noise as well as soundproofing

Acoustic Design Ceiling

Accessories

Copper speaker cable, Speakon, signal cable, cannon head (male, female), Jack plugs,

When the above equipment is available for your sound setup, be assured that the dynamic concept on mastering your digitalized sound production will become an enjoyable ride for a quality sound production.

Dynamic Concept of Digitalized Mix for Quality Sound Production

Now, establishing the fact that our structural setup is completed as mentioned above.

In this context, the dynamic concept expresses how your routing should be configured and mastered on the mixing console for its best performance.

Let us also re-emphasis that the rating of your sound production is not based on the loudness of your sound mix but sorely on clarity, balance and dynamics

Digital mixing platforms support collaborative workflows, allowing multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously, share mix settings and presets, and collaborate in real-time, fostering dynamic teamwork and creativity in sound production.

These dynamic aspects of digitalized sound mixing enable mix engineers and sound designers to achieve greater control, creativity, and precision in shaping audio content for various applications and contexts.

Here is a few of them but most important aspect of achieving a quality digital production

UNDERSTANDING THE 4 STAGES OF DYNAMIC DIGITALIZED MIX

Ring out the Hall/Auditorium

Using a measuring Mic (RTA) allows you to set the best equalization for the space you have and thus helping to locate peaks and dips that should be cut out of your mix.

Steps involved in connecting your devices for ringing a hall –

  1. Connect your Loud/Sub Speaker to Amplifier
  2. Take your Signal Cable and connect from the amplifier to your Speaker Management System
  3. From there, connect from Speaker management system to the Mixer
  4. At the front panel of your speaker management system, connect your RTA Mic
  5. Finally, position the RTA Mic at the middle of your Left & Right Speaker; usually not more than 10 meters away from the speakers.

Steps to Ring out the Hall/Auditorium using the Speaker Management System

  1. Click the wizard button on the management system
  2. Set the pink noise on the preferred performance level
  3. Click on Next button; the EQ will tune the speakers to the room
  4. Wait until your auto-EQ is complete and Click NEXT until you save
  5. Rename the scene name to your desired name.
Dynamic Range Compression

Compression is a vital aspect in sound production; it helps to cut unwanted sound waves.

Here are some important points

  1. The compression section helps to cut of the excesses in vocals and only allow the sound waves that the speaker as an output can accommodate and releases such to the audience.
  2. Some heavy weight instruments such as Drum Kick, Bass Guitar are configured not to distort or send feedback noise that can disrupt your sound mix

Advantages –

  1. It preserves your overall equipment from damage
  2. It keeps your mix neat, clear and desirable by the listeners

Here is a quick link that teaches best approach to dynamic compression –

Dynamic Effects Processing

Digital mixers provide a wide range of dynamic effects processing options, including time-based effects in song ministrations

However, do not overdo Effects as too many effects in individual input mix can lead to unpleasant sound;

Use effects like reverb, delay, and modulation sparingly and purposefully to avoid overwhelming the mix.

Learn dynamic effect processing an easy steps with so much impact

Real-time Adjustments

This is the most enjoyable section that requires full concentration; it takes place after your configuration is complete.

For me, “I have called this the Gift of the combination of the Hand, Eyes and Ears”.

What is it about?

To adjust audio levels, EQ settings, effects, and other parameters during ministrations or playback, allowing on-ground modifications based on feedback.

How is it Possible?

  1. Use your ears as the final judge of sound quality.
  2. You Train yourself to recognize subtle nuances and make decisions based on what sounds best.
BENEFITS OF MASTERING DIGITAL SOUND MIX

Dynamic Mixing – 

It makes room for different recording and saved them respectively without altering either of the mix. Multiple scenes are created to accommodate your mix.

Your saved scenes can be copied into a removable storage device and used elsewhere provided it is same product of digital mixer.

Interactive Control Interfaces – 

Most digital mixer comes with loveable features such as touchscreens, motorized faders, rotary encoders, and assignable buttons.

With Digital mixers, you can dynamically control various parameters, facilitating fluid mixing workflows.

Non-destructive Editing –

You can edit your settings and re-save with a different scene name that can be used in future without altering the scenes initially saved into the mixer thereby it facilitates creativity

Parallel Processing –

Dynamic digital mixers have the ability to process individual input channel independently, blend all the input channel together dynamically for a pleasurable production for your listeners

Finally, as a sound Engineer or prospective sound Engineer, apply these tips and continuously refining your skills for digitalized mix

You have no excuse not to strive for digitalized sound production with perfection and creating high-quality recordings that standout

Stay updated with the latest techniques, tools, and trends in digital sound production through online resources, courses, and workshops.

Also you can contact us if there are further explanation as required by us.

Data Warehousing Wonders: A Leverage for Business Value in 2024

While Data Warehousing and Database Management Systems (DBMS) share some similarities, they serve different purposes and distinct characteristics which will make YOU decide to ADD Data Warehousing to an existing Relational Database Management System

In 2024, as Data Warehousing continues to evolve with wonders on advancements in technology, methodologies, and best practices for organization to STRIVE BEST in the terms of deliveries.

It is important we understand this fact and move into action.

Growth of Business with Data Warehousing

Definition

Data Warehousing; a process of collecting, storing, and managing large volumes of data from various sources within an organization to support decision-making and analysis for the benefits of all stake holders to the organization.

Purpose of Data Warehousing

Simply say, Data Warehousing concept is to provide a centralized reservoir where structured and unstructured data can be kept, integrated, and organized in a format optimized for querying and analysis.

It helps any Goal-Focus organization drive informed decision-making and gain competitive advantage amongst other businesses in the present and future.

Your Organizational Benefits of Creating Data Warehouse 

Some may say, we are just beginning, let’s give some more time and work manually for the time being. Others can come up with excuses of not grown too well in the business to own a data ware house.

The simple truth is that you are missing out from its numerous gains of operating an organization that keeps business records in an automated data warehouse.

We are here to learn why you should create one now by exploring the untiring benefits for your organization(s).

  1. It can enable organization(s) to gain a holistic view of their data taken from unalike sources and derive actionable insights.
  2. It allows organizations to handle growing volumes of data thereby adapt to any prompted changes to business growth and expansion
  3. Analytical queries (gain insights and answer business questions) and reporting (present summarized data in a structured format to communicate key findings to stakeholders) is possible with Data Warehousing
  4. Data Warehousing ensure data privacy, integrity, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
  5. It sure facilitates data accessibility and collaboration ONLY to its USER(S) with Permitted Access by providing self-service analytics tools, dashboards, and reporting capabilities across the organization.

7 Major Key Components of Data Warehouse

Data Warehousing have key components which help work together to support data warehousing initiatives, enable organizations to derive actionable insights, make informed decisions, and drive business value from their data assets. Amongst them are:-

  1. Data Integration:  A process of accumulating data from different sources, formats it, and systems into a unified and consistent view for its users
  2. Data Storage: A bank that archive(store) and retrieve data for future use
  3. Data Transformation and Cleansing: It involves modifying, restructuring, and standardizing data to ensure accuracy, consistency, reliability and quality for analysis
  4. Querying and Analysis: Refer to the process of retrieving and examining data stored within the data warehouse to derive insights, identify patterns, and make informed decisions
  5. Decision Support: This involves utilizing data analysis and reporting capabilities to provide stakeholders with actionable insights
  6. Historical Trend Analysis: It helps in making informed strategic decisions based on historical data by examining past data patterns, trends to identify insights and predict tomorrow’s outcomes
  7. Business Intelligence and Reporting: It is visualizing data from data warehouse, extract insights and generate practicable reports that supports decision making in an organization

How is Data warehousing relevance in modern business intelligence (BI) and analytics initiatives?

  1. This centralize Data as received from multiple sources enables  the organization of consolidating different data into a single source of truth
  2. There is data consistency, accuracy, and completeness, providing a comprehensive view of business operations and performance.
  3. It has ability to process vast datasets and derive actionable insights in a timely manner.
  4. Support real-time and near-real-time monitoring of business performance metrics, KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), and operational metrics.  It means it can track performance against goals, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions to optimize business outcomes.
  5. It does not rely on IT or technical support by providing self-service BI tools, thereby allow user(s) to explore data, create custom reports

In summary, data warehousing is essential for modern BI and analytics initiatives as it provides a centralized and integrated platform for data storage, analysis, and reporting.

By leveraging historical and real-time data, organizations can uncover hidden patterns, forecast trends, make proactive decisions to drive growth and innovation.

Handling Data Transformations through Data Warehousing Solutions

Data transformations involve modifying, reshaping, or converting raw data from its source format into a format suitable for analysis and reporting.

These transformations may include cleaning, filtering, aggregating, combining or enriching data to meet the requirements of downstream processes, such as loading into a data warehouse.

Transformation of Data may be applied using SQL queries, Scripting Languages, or Specialized ETL tools that offer graphical interfaces for designing transformation workflows.

SQL Queries Tools are;

  1. Talend Data Integration
  2. Informatica PowerCenter
  3. IBM InfoSphere DataStage
  4. Microsoft SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS)
  5. Apache NiFi

Scripting Language Tools are;

  • Python
  • JavaScripts
  • Ruby
  • Perl
  • Bash

Specialized ETL Tools are;

  • Apache NiFi
  • Pentaho Data Integration (Kettle)
  • Oracle Data Integrator (ODI)
  • Talend Data Integration
  • Microsoft SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS)
  • IBM InfoSphere DataStage
  • Informatica PowerCenter

Creating a Data Warehousing is one thing, but we have to go extra length in securing the data especially for sensitive ones.

Now, let us consider how to keep you data protected from an un-authorized user(s)

3 Best Methods for Securing Sensitive Data in Your Data Warehousing
  1. Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data from interception by using encryption algorithms

Examples –

  • Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) – Secures data stored within data warehouse
  • Transport Layer Security (TLS) – Secures data transmission

Encryption of Data

  1. Access controls and authentication mechanisms on any of the Data Transformation Tool: It restricts access to sensitive data with user roles, privileges, and permissions based on job responsibilities.

Examples –

  • Administrators Roles; Read-only, read-write permissions with overall access
  • Data Analysts Roles; Read-only, read-write permission with level access
  • Business Users Roles; Read-only

Limiting Control of Access to data

  1. Data masking technique: It keeps sensitive information hidden in non-production environments. This technique replaces sensitive data with scrambled values while preserving data format and structure.

Example –

  • Mask personally identifiable information (PII) with randomized or hashed equivalents.

Masking data in unproductive environment

4 Reasons of Adding Data Warehousing Alongside Database Management System
  1. Purpose;

Data Warehousing provide a centralized repository for storing and analyzing large volumes of structured and unstructured data from various sources

Database Management System is software systems that manage and organize structured data in databases

2. Data Structure;

Data Warehousing typically store large volumes of historical and current data in a structured format and incorporate dimensional modeling techniques

DBMSs manage structured data stored in databases using tables, rows, and columns

3. Usage;

Data warehouses are primarily used for decision support, business intelligence, and analytics

DBMSs are used for transaction processing, data storage, and retrieval in operational applications which handles day-to-day transactions.

4. Scope;

Data warehousing points at providing an extensive view of organizational data by integrating and consolidating data from multi-dimensional source and supports analytical processes.

DBMS manage data within personal databases, supporting specific applications or business functions such as customer relationship management (CRM) and others

Finally, if you have followed closely on our article on Data Warehousing Wonders, it is the best time to begin your data storage.

Designing Data Warehousing for your organization with no limit on size or years of operation of the organization.

From LAN to Cloud: Modern Networking in 2024

Cloud Networking
Cloud-based solutions

CONCEPT OF LAN NETWORKING

A LAN that we usually know is a network of interconnected devices within a LIMITED geographic area, such as an office building, school, or home.

These devices are Computers, Printers, Servers (Switch, Router), and other networked device (Network Interface Cards)

LAN – At Its Best in 2024

Local Area Network (LAN) create room for local file sharing, printer sharing, networked gaming, video streaming, and collaboration tools within organizations and households amongst others.

This is huge Limitations to the demands of the digital age economy.

MEANING OF CLOUD NETWORKING 

Cloud networking refers to the use of cloud-based infrastructure and services to facilitate communication, sharing and exchanging of DATA between devices and applications over the internet.

Cloud Networking – At Its Best

It extends network infrastructure and services over the internet, offering a wide range of benefits for modern organizations at different locations with its MODELS; IaaS, PaaS and SaaS

Cloud-based Architecture

Major Differences of LAN Networking and CLOUD Networking

  • Scope Coverage:  LAN – Operates within a limited geographical area, such as a single building, campus, or office space

WHILE Cloud Networking – Seamless interaction over the internet, connecting resources and users on a global scale dispersed locations

  • Ownership and Control: Traditional LAN – Operated and controlled by a single organization or entity, allowing for direct management and customization of network infrastructure

WHILE Cloud Networking – control is shared between the organization and the cloud provider, with varying levels of customization depending on the service model

  • Infrastructure: Local Area Network – Relies on physical hardware components as mentioned above deployed on-premises within the organization’s premises

WHILE Cloud Networking – Utilizes virtualized infrastructure hosted in data centers, operated by cloud providers with resources provisioned and managed remotely over the internet. Its hardware resources are abstracted from users.

  • Security and Compliance: LAN – Security controls and compliance measures are primarily managed by the organization’s IT team with direct control over access policies, encryption, and data protection mechanisms

WHILE Cloud Networking – Security and compliance responsibilities are shared between the organization and the cloud provider, with providers offering robust security features, compliance certifications, and data protection measures.

Challenges of the Traditional LAN Networking

  1. Traditional LAN setups often face limitations in scalability, that is accommodating growing numbers of devices and users may not be feasible. To add new device(s) or expanding the network infrastructure may require unplanned investments in hardware upgrades or reconfiguration.
  2. Managing and maintaining a traditional LAN infrastructure can be resource-intensive and time-consuming. The maintenance overhead can increase as the network grows in size and complexity.
  3. Limited Accessibility: Traditional LANs are typically confined to a single physical location or premises, restricting access to network resources for remote users or distributed. This limitation can hinder collaboration, productivity, and flexibility, especially in modern work environments where remote work and mobile devices are increasingly common.
  4. It setups often rely on centralized hardware components such as switches or routers, which can act as single points of failure. If either of them fails, it can disrupt communication and access to network resources for all connected devices, leading to downtime and productivity losses.
  5. Implementing redundant hardware, backup links, and failover mechanisms to mitigate the risk of network outages requires additional investment and maintenance efforts. Also, to achieve seamless failover and recovery processes in case of hardware or network failures can be complex and time-consuming.

Benefits of Moving From LAN to Cloud Networking Solutions

The overall transitioning from LAN to cloud-based solutions will empowers organizations for innovations, competitions and achieving greater success in today’s digital economy. If you so desire to take over the global stage, here are Five (5) key benefits of moving from LAN to the CLOUD

  1. Cloud networking solutions offer virtually limitless scalability, allowing organizations to rapidly scale resources up or down based on demand can dynamically adjust resources to match requirements, ensuring optimal performance and cost efficiency to client(s).
  2. Flexibility: It helps organization to deploy new applications, adjusted services, and infrastructure resources in minutes rather than weeks or months which enables businesses to respond rapidly to changing market conditions, customer demands, and competitive pressures, thereby gaining a competitive edge in the market.
  3. Cost Efficiency: Cloud services operate on a pay-per-use or subscription-based pricing model, allowing businesses to avoid upfront capital expenditures on hardware and infrastructure. Additionally, cloud providers benefit from economies of scale, enabling them to offer services at lower costs compared to on-premises (LAN) alternatives.
  4. It permits users globally to access applications, data, and services from anywhere with an internet connection. This is enjoyable when organization(s) have distributed teams, remote workers, or international operations.
  5. Reliability: Its guarantee continuous availability of services and data, even in the event of hardware failures, natural disasters, or other disruptions because it offers robust backup and disaster recovery solutions in the event of data loss or downtime.

Requirements: From  Traditional LAN to CLOUD Networking

It may seems complex and tasking to moving from LAN to CLOUD but when successful, it can be all 100% satisfying and fulfilling.

Now, let’s consider the TWO categories you need as an organization to move your Limited LAN Networking to Unlimited Cloud-based Networking

  1. Cloud Service Models: These are different categories of cloud computing services provided by cloud providers.

These models define the level of control and responsibility that the provider and the customer have over various aspects of IT infrastructure and services.

Examples include;

a. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): It allow renting of infrastructure components such as virtual machines (VMs), storage, and networking on a pay-as-you-go basis

Usage Areas: Development and testing environments, website hosting, data backup and recovery, disaster recovery, and scalable web applications.

b. Platform as a Service (PaaS): Provides a platform and environment for developers to build, deploy, and manage applications without the complexity of managing underlying infrastructure.

Usage Area: Web application development, mobile app development, API development, IoT applications, and data analytics platforms.

c. Software as a Service (SaaS): Allowing users to access and use applications via web browsers or APIs without the need for installation or maintenance.

Usage Areas: Email and collaboration tools (e.g., Office 365, G Suite), Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems (e.g., Salesforce), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, Human Resource Management (HRM) software, and content management systems (e.g., WordPress).

2. Cloud Deployment Models: They provide organizations with different options for hosting, managing, and accessing cloud resources based on their specific requirements, preferences, and constraints.

By choosing the right deployment model, organizations can optimize cost, performance, security, and scalability to meet their business objectives effectively.

Examples are;

  1. Public Cloud: Infrastructure and services are owned and operated by third-party cloud providers and made available to the general public.
  2. Private Cloud: Infrastructure and services are dedicated to a single organization and hosted either on-premises or by a third-party provider.
  3. Hybrid Cloud: Combines public and private cloud environments, allowing data and applications to be shared between them.
  4. Multi-Cloud: Involves using services from multiple cloud providers to avoid vendor lock-in, enhance redundancy, and leverage best-of-breed solutions.
  5. Community clouds: Offer shared infrastructure, cost-sharing opportunities, and tailored services to meet the specific needs of the community members.

It involve sharing cloud infrastructure and resources among organizations with common interests or requirements, such as government agencies etc.

Best/Trusted Migration Strategies from LAN to CLOUD Networking

Let’s discuss here the three simplest approaches in moving your organization’s LAN Network to CLOUD Network.

  1. Lift-and-Shift:

    Also known as “Re-hosting,” involves migrating existing on-premises (LAN) applications and infrastructure to the Cloud with minimal modifications.

    This approach aims to replicate the existing environment in the cloud simply by deploying virtual machines (VMs) or containers that mirror the on-premises (LAN) setup.

Benefits: Lift-and-shift offers a fast and straightforward migration path, minimizing disruption to existing workflows and reducing upfront investment in re-architecting applications.

It can also provide immediate access to cloud scalability and manageability.

Cloud Network Solutions

2. Re-Platforming:

Involves making minor modifications to existing applications or infrastructure during migration to optimize them for cloud environments.

This approach aims to take advantage of cloud-native features and services without completely redesigning the application architecture.

Benefits: cost savings, improved scalability, and reduced maintenance overhead compared to (LAN) deployments while minimizing the complexity and risk associated with full application refactoring.

3. Refactoring:

Also called re-architecting which involves redesigning and rebuilding applications from scratch to fully leverage cloud-native architectures, services, and best practices.

Benefits: Refactoring embraces cloud-native architectures and services and organizations can modernize legacy applications, accelerate innovation, and stay competitive.

It is ok if you wish to explore AWS Cloud migration which is FREE.

More so, you do not have to worry on how to carry out the migration successfully as we have also put in place the relevant steps to follow in achieving your aims.

General Steps Involved in Migrating from Traditional LAN to CLOUD-Based Networking

Steps to follow on Lift-and-Shift
  1. Look at for current on-premises infrastructure, applications, and dependencies.
  2. Select a cloud provider and determine the appropriate cloud services (e.g., Infrastructure as a Service – IaaS) for hosting the workload.
  3. Lift existing virtual machines or server images to the cloud using tools like AWS VM Import/Export, Azure Site Recovery, or Google Cloud Migrate for Compute Engine.
  4. Configure networking settings, security groups, and access controls to align with cloud best practices.
  5. Validate the migrated environment to ensure functionality and performance meet expectations.
Steps to follow on Re-Platforming 
  1. Identify components of the application stack can be optimized for its deployment, it could be databases, middleware, or messaging queues.
  2. Evaluate cloud-native alternatives for these components (e.g., managed database services, serverless computing) and assess compatibility with existing applications.
  3. Modify the application code or configurations to integrate with cloud-native services and leverage platform-specific features, such as auto-scaling or managed backups.
  4. Migrate the re-platformed components to the cloud, ensuring compatibility and functionality is maintained throughout the process.
  5. Test and validate the re-platformed application to ensure performance, reliability, and security meet requirements.
Steps to follow on Refactoring 
  1. Assess the existing application architecture, dependencies, and business requirements to identify areas for improvement and modernization.
  2. Define a target architecture that leverages cloud-native services, such as micro-services, serverless computing, container orchestration, and managed databases.
  3. Rewrite or redevelop application components using cloud-native development frameworks, tools, and services, such as AWS Lambda, Azure Functions, or Google Kubernetes Engine.
  4. Containerize application components using Docker containers and orchestrate them with container management platforms like Kubernetes or Docker Swarm.
  5. Deploy the refactored application to the cloud, leveraging cloud provider services for deployment automation, monitoring, and scaling.
  6. Continuously monitor and optimize the refactored application to ensure performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
Network Performance Optimization

This is a key part that should not be joked with when transiting from Traditional LAN to CLOUD.

When considering the essentials for ensuring that applications and services for any Cloud-Based Networking Solutions deliver a responsive and reliable user experience to both organizational users, day-to-day clients and maybe visitors, there are strategies for optimization.

Kindly Contact us on tested strategies for optimizing network performance in any cloud-based network.

Future Trends on Cloud Networking

The expected trends in cloud networking represent significant advancements that will shape the way organizations design, deploy, and manage their networks in the coming years.

With these trends, organizations can unlock new capabilities, improve agility, and deliver innovative services to meet evolving business demands.

What are these future TRENDS and do we need them?

  1. 5G Networks

High-Speed Connectivity: 5G networks offer significantly faster speeds and lower latency compared to previous generations of mobile networks.

This enhanced connectivity enables a wide range of applications and services that demand real-time data transmission and ultra-low latency.

It also reduces latency and bandwidth usage, enabling new use cases such as

  • Autonomous vehicles
  • Augmented reality (AR)
  • Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications.
2. Serverless Architectures:

Serverless architectures allow developers to focus on writing code without managing underlying infrastructure.

Serverless computing models offer cost efficiency by charging only for the resources consumed during function execution, eliminating the need to provision and manage servers.

it enable rapid scaling to handle fluctuating workloads, ensuring optimal performance and responsiveness without overprovisioning resources.

3. AI-Driven Network Automation:

It leverages on machine learning algorithms to analyze network traffic, predict patterns, and automate routine network management tasks.

AI algorithms help to optimize resource allocation and traffic routing to improve network efficiency, reduce congestion, and enhance application performance.

You can also visit Linda Rosencrance is a freelance writer/editor/author in the Boston area.

Rosencrance has over 30 years’ experience as an investigative reporter on what to  expect on Cloud Networking trend