Google Compute Engine (GCE) is a core component of Google Cloud Platform, which provides users with virtual machines (VMs) that run on Google's infrastructure. Here's detailed information about GCE:
Overview
- Service Type: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS).
- Purpose: To offer scalable, high-performance computing resources for hosting applications, websites, and other services.
- Features:
- Custom machine types allowing users to tailor CPU, memory, and disk configurations.
- Support for Linux and Windows operating systems.
- Automatic load balancing, auto-scaling, and persistent disks.
- Preemptible VMs for cost-effective, non-critical workloads.
History
GCE was announced on June 28, 2012, as part of Google's broader cloud computing strategy. It went into limited preview in May 2013 and became generally available in December 2013. Here are some key milestones:
- 2012: Google announced GCE at the Google I/O conference.
- 2013: GCE entered limited preview, allowing select developers to test the service.
- 2013: General availability was announced, opening up the service to all customers.
- 2014: Introduction of regional persistent disks, allowing for data redundancy and high availability.
- 2016: Launch of Google Cloud Interconnect for direct, private connection to Google's network.
- 2017: Enhanced Google Kubernetes Engine integration for container orchestration.
Context and Usage
- Scalability: Users can scale their computing resources up or down based on demand, which is particularly useful for businesses with fluctuating loads.
- Performance: GCE leverages Google's infrastructure, which is known for its high-speed networking and low latency, crucial for real-time applications.
- Security: Google provides robust security features including encryption at rest and in transit, identity and access management, and compliance certifications.
- Integration: GCE integrates seamlessly with other Google services like Google Cloud Storage, BigQuery, and Google App Engine.
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