LAB Network On-Premise versus Cloud

I am a geek or nerd by nature.  I am constantly trying to identify how something works. It could be hardware or software it doesn’t matter, I just always like to see how products or services function. I work in the technology field and have about 30+ years in with multiple titles and designations depending on the organization and their labor category.  The line of work that tends to attract is operations, administration, and management.

So, let’s take a journey. I want to get into the discussion of Lab Networks for techs and engineers. This would be based on network, security and even for help desk.  The on-premise lab network and cloud based lab networks are always up for discussion. I will get into some specifics about both and provide some notes about the pros and cons of both.

ON-PREMISE LAB

The building of a home lab can be cumbersome. It takes some time to gather the equipment and design can get complicated quickly. The basics are pretty simple and items can be bought from eBay. A treasure trove of devices are on eBay and Amazon. These items can be gathered pretty quickly and pricing varies.  The items listed within the next sections are identified from eBay and can be purchased directly from the site.

A table or rack will suffice. The tables are a lot cheaper than the rack.  Again, I like the rack for the look and feel of the Data Center plus once you get the cables in place with some velcro or plastic ties it looks pretty clean.

If you are looking at accessing the lab outside of your network, then you will need to get a remote software package and/or firewall to protect your investment. This can be opensource or a purchase.

PROS

• You own the equipment, there is no additional expenses to create your lab.
• Build and upgrade whenever you’re ready.
• Connectivity is your choice.

CONS

• Costs are normally up front and not a monthly fee. (Unless you use credit to purchase)
• You need to monitor and maintain your hardware. (You break it, You fix it)

CLOUD LAB

The cloud lab is simple. You own no hardware, there is no maintenance of hardware, electricity, cooling, cables, and other hardware requirements. This is all operationally managed and sustained by the cloud provider.  The applications can be installed however the OS is normally selected by your selection of servers. (I.e. create cloud server with Windows or Linux OS installed.)  The ip management is managed by you however you don’t manage the switch physically. However, you do manage the ip subnet. (Static and DHCP)

Now, with the above information stated, Cloud labs are great for testing application, system configurations, business continuity, DR, and other server/network/security configurations.  The caveat is the provider charges by the hour. Some providers do allow a free tier limit which basically provides hardware that can barely support a good linux desktop. If you can run the system with minimal requirements it’s a great solution.  You have some quality providers that will get you what you require for your home lab. If you are looking for a single server solution with Windows or linux OS only, AWS has LightSail and it’s pretty nice for the cost. The Microsoft Azure solution offers something similar.  I would definitely recommend do your research on the cloud provider solutions for your LAB. The research should save you some time and definitely some money.

PROS

• Scalable without the associated on-premise hardware cost.
• No HVAC or Electric concerns
• Basic Support is free.
• Spin up servers is pretty simple.

CONS

• If you don’t watch your servers it will cost you.
• If there are issues beyond your capabilities, you will pay for it as it’s beyond the free basic support services.
• If you use the minimal free tier services, it’s only good for a single month. Your bills will stack up after the month of free services.

SUMMARY

I would recommend cloud if you are trying to spin up a quick instance to test for a limited time. (Example – test application settings, security changes etc) 

I wouldn’t use it for long term lab usage unless you have the funding to support the LAB in the cloud solution.

The on-premise lab would be very beneficial for long term lab usage and you can upgrade when you want as long as you feel the need to fund.  This lab will provide the best bang for your buck.  For example, the Cisco 3750 mentioned was roughly $47 on eBay. The server ran about $275.00, cables $35.00 on Amazon, software was evaluation and/or free. If you want to add UPS, backup and other items those could be minimized in cost as well.