MapReduce is a type of parallel computing paradigm that enables users to easily process large amounts of data, called “big data.” This type of processing enables users to utilize excess computing capacity in the cloud and process their data at the same time. Cloud computing with MapReduce is an especially useful tool for businesses or organizations that generate large amounts of data or store lots of data as part of their business operations. The various benefits and drawbacks of using MapReduce in the cloud are outlined below.
What is MapReduce?
MapReduce is a parallel algorithm that partitions input data into smaller chunks and distributes those chunks across multiple computing nodes. Once the data is distributed, multiple “maps” are performed on each chunk of data to generate intermediate results. Once the maps are complete, the intermediate results are combined together using a “reduce” function to generate the final result set. MapReduce has been around since the late 1990s as a software framework for distributed computing on large clusters of commodity hardware. The Apache Hadoop software framework, which released in 2005, popularised the MapReduce computing model.
Why use MapReduce in the Cloud?
Cloud computing with MapReduce lets you process large amounts of data and utilize the cloud’s excess computing resources at the same time. Using the cloud to process your data instead of on-premises hardware has several advantages, including - Higher availability - Easier scalability - Ability to process larger amounts of data When it comes to the drawbacks of using MapReduce in the cloud, the primary issue is that you’re giving away control of your data. Because you’re processing your data in the cloud, you’re putting your data in the hands of a third party. If security issues arise at that third party, you could be at risk of losing your data.
Advantages of MapReduce in Cloud Computing
- More scalable - Cloud-based MapReduce solutions are often able to scale up more quickly and easily than on-premises versions. If your business is generating more data than you can handle, you can add more processing power to your MapReduce solution in the cloud with a few clicks or a phone call.
- Lower upfront cost - If you have the computing resources to run an on-premises solution, you’ll pay less over the long term as you won’t incur the ongoing costs of running a cloud solution.
- More flexibility - If your on-premises solution is down, you can’t do anything with data, while a cloud solution may be able to route data to other nodes to keep the system running.
Drawbacks of MapReduce in Cloud Computing
- More data security risks - When your data is in the cloud, it’s in the hands of a third-party data center operator. Those operators are subject to government oversight and regulation, but they’re also on the lookout for commercial gain.
- Data privacy - Your data may be accessible by third-party organizations or employees of your cloud provider, possibly without your knowledge.
- Local customization not possible - You can’t modify the source code for a cloud-based MapReduce implementation and add new functionality beyond what the cloud provider has pre-built in.
Key Takeaway
MapReduce is an excellent tool for processing large amounts of data across a cluster of nodes in the cloud. Cloud computing with MapReduce requires a third-party provider, but you can take advantage of the flexibility and scalability that cloud providers offer. If you’re generating significant amounts of data, it’s worth investigating cloud-based MapReduce solutions to manage your data. Finally, keep in mind that your data will be in the hands of a third party, so use caution when deciding to use a cloud-based MapReduce solution.
