Contrary to popular belief, AWS and Google Cloud are not just for commercial use. Both offer entry-level options for solo hobbyist projects, like personal websites or web apps. You could self-host these services, but here are 4 compelling reasons you should consider Google Cloud or AWS for your next project.
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4 Always-on availability
Avoid unexpected shutdowns
Self-hosting a project can be a great way to have complete control over all aspects of the operation, but this also means you're responsible for any potential problems with the hardware and underlying software. Being on the hook for reliability can be bothersome if something you do starts to pick up steam.
Choosing a service like AWS or Google Cloud allows you to utilize their enterprise-grade server hardware, with all the redundancies that come with it. Even if your own hardware has an unexpected shutdown due to weather or other failures, your project will still be available for those who want access to it.
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3 Great scalability
Add more juice if you need it
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Scaling your own hardware when hosting projects locally can be a costly endeavor. Storage is one thing, but if you need more processing power, you'll need to put in a lot of legwork. For a price, AWS and Google Cloud allow you to scale your projects as needed. It's also useful if you need to downsize; simply paying a bit less is much easier versus having to sell off hardware you've already purchased.
2 Cost-effective
Free plans come with more benefits than you'd think
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Depending on what you're using them for, the free tier of both AWS and Google Cloud feature a surprising amount of capability for not having to shell out any cash. Both services offer a level of "always free" services with limited features, but if you're looking to get a taste of what both services can do, they offer free trials, allowing you to scale up your project a bit without committing.
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1 Wide range of services available
Many of them are plug and play
Using Google Cloud or AWS means you have access to their suite of services, many of which can be set up without much hassle. Web servers, compute services, commerce platforms, and even access to AI and machine learning capabilities are all things you can incorporate into your personal projects. Many can be up and running with just a few clicks to activate them.
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Don't be limited by the hardware you own
Whether you're just a hobbyist web developer or someone simply exploring new technologies, both AWS and Google Cloud are great options for projects of all sizes. There are certain services you can get away with hosting yourself, but it's worth considering a third-party host, especially if you plan on needing a more robust, scalable solution in the future.
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