Google Cloud computing services power thousands of apps you use every day. Ever run out of space or CPU cycles right before a big launch? Whether you’re a scrappy startup or a global retailer, you can spin up virtual machines. You can store data, secure your network, and even run machine learning models without breaking a sweat. Let’s break down each service category so you know exactly what to use and when.
Understanding cloud computing services
Imagine you’re renting a server in Google’s data center instead of buying hardware. That’s cloud computing, plain and simple. You tap into a massive network of servers and pay only for what you use. Here’s why that matters:
- Scale up or down instantly with auto scaling
- Rely on Google’s global network for low latency
- Control costs with pay as you go pricing
- Focus on your app, not on infrastructure
Core compute solutions
Google Cloud offers three main ways to run your code. You can pick full control or let Google handle the servers.
Virtual machines with Compute Engine
Compute Engine gives you VMs with custom machine types, preemptible instances for cost savings, and optional GPUs for heavy workloads. Use it to lift and shift existing apps or run high-performance batch jobs.
Containers with Kubernetes Engine
GKE handles scaling, upgrades, and security for your containerized apps. If you’re running microservices or need portability, GKE is your friend.
Serverless with App Engine and Cloud Functions
App Engine auto-manages servers for web apps and APIs, while Cloud Functions runs event-driven code. You focus on writing logic, not on provisioning servers.
For a full rundown of compute and other options, check out our google cloud platform services page.
Storage and database options
From object storage to relational databases, Google Cloud has you covered.
Object storage with Cloud Storage
Cloud Storage is a durable, scalable service for photos, videos, logs, and backups. You get multiple storage classes and lifecycle rules to optimize costs.
Managed databases with Cloud SQL and Spanner
Cloud SQL lets you run MySQL, PostgreSQL, or SQL Server without patching or scaling servers. Spanner offers a fully managed, horizontally scalable database with global ACID transactions.
Learn more in our google cloud storage services guide.
Security and compliance services
Here’s the thing, you don’t have to be a security expert to keep your apps safe on Google Cloud.
- Granular identity and access management with IAM
- Built-in encryption for data at rest and in transit
- DDoS protection and customizable firewall rules
- Compliance certifications for HIPAA, PCI-DSS, GDPR, and more
Explore our google cloud security services for details on setting up encryption, monitoring, and audit logging.
Migration and management services
Moving to the cloud doesn’t have to be scary or slow.
Migration services
Tools like Migrate for Compute Engine and Transfer Appliance automate data replication. They handle cutover for VMs, databases, and file servers.
See our google cloud migration services to get started.
Managed services
After you migrate, managed services handle monitoring, patching, and backups. You focus on building features.
google cloud managed services can save you hours each month.
Professional and consulting services
If you need architecture reviews, cost optimization, or compliance help, our experts can guide you end to end. Learn more about our google cloud consulting services and google cloud professional services.
AI and analytics tools
Google’s AI and big data tools let you extract insights without wrestling with infrastructure.
AI and machine learning
Use pre-trained APIs for vision, language, and translation, or train custom models with Vertex AI. You get built-in auto scaling, experiment tracking, and simple deployment.
Check out google cloud ai services for more on model training, prediction, and data prep.
Big data and analytics
BigQuery is a serverless data warehouse that can scan petabytes in seconds. Use Dataflow or Dataproc for streaming and batch ETL with Apache Beam, Hadoop, or Spark.
Backup and recovery options
Backup is your safety net when things go south.
- Snapshots for Compute Engine disks with point-in-time restores
- Automated backups for Cloud SQL and Spanner
- Coldline and Archive storage classes in Cloud Storage for long-term retention
Find out more in our google cloud backup services overview.
Choosing the right services
Picking the right tool comes down to your workload, budget, and team skills. Here’s a quick reference:
| Use case | Recommended service |
|---|---|
| Lift and shift existing VMs | Compute Engine |
| Containerized microservices | Kubernetes Engine |
| Web apps or APIs | App Engine or Cloud Functions |
| File storage and media | Cloud Storage |
| Relational databases | Cloud SQL, Spanner |
| Large-scale analytics | BigQuery, Dataflow |
| AI and ML workloads | Vertex AI, AI APIs |
| Managed support and operations | Managed services |
Key takeaways and next steps
Here are the key points to remember:
- Google Cloud computing services cover compute, storage, networking, security, migration, AI, and backup
- You pay as you go, so you only cover what you use
- Shift operational tasks like patching and scaling to Google
- Try the free tier, spin up a VM, or test an API
- Share your favorite GCP feature in the comments below
Ready to dive in? Head to the Google Cloud Console and start building, then let us know how it goes.
