Google has announced the general availability of a new Distributed Cloud configuration designed for use in tactical edge environments.
Google Distributed Cloud’s new air-gapped device enables customers in harsh environments, such as disaster zones and remote research stations, to stay connected to Google Cloud applications and AI solutions while minimizing the risk of outages.
To maintain connectivity, Google Distributed Cloud’s air-gapped device provides complete isolation and operates without a connection to Google Cloud or the public internet.
Google Distributed Cloud Expansion
The Google Distributed Cloud air-gapped appliance is designed to operate without reliance on the public internet, and meets strict regulatory and compliance requirements. Users can also expect a range of security features, including encryption, data isolation, firewalls, and secure boot, to protect their data.
In his announcementGoogle boasts that the device has Department of Defense Impact Level 5 accreditation, adding that it’s also designed to meet Impact Level 6 and higher accreditations. It weighs about 100 lbs (45 kg) and can be transported in a ruggedized enclosure or rack-mounted, making it easier to carry.
The device supports a variety of use cases, including emergency response, industrial automation, transportation and logistics, and limited workloads for the federal government and defense. It combines infrastructure-as-a-service capabilities such as compute, networking, and storage with Google Cloud services such as data transfer and analytics.
Michael Roquemore, director of the Air Force Rapid Sustainment Office’s Rapid, Agile, Integrated Capabilities Team and one of the first customers of air-gapped devices, noted:
“By delivering a secure and compliant edge computing platform, the RSO can leverage pre-developed Google-based technologies in both the connected cloud and the disconnected edge to bring digital innovation to the military wherever they operate.
Google Distributed Cloud air-gapped appliance is now generally available and product specifications are available at a dedicated webpage.