Cloud services are hot in today’s market. Many IT giants offer a wide range of cloud services at affordable prices. Many new business owners are not aware of the differences between these offerings and do not know which option is best for them.
There are three key cloud concepts: PaaS (Platform as a Service), SaaS(Software as a Service), and IaaS [Infrastructure as a Service]. There are many subsets of cloud models, including CaaS (Container and a Service), DaaS (“Desktop and a Service”), etc. We will discuss the differences among the top three cloud concepts to help you choose the right one for your business.
Let’s start by understanding the basics of cloud computing.
Imagine that you have a physical data center with many servers on-site for your Enterprise software and databases. The initial investment is in the location and IT infrastructure. As they are maintained, the cost will increase.
FAQs: 10 Commonly Asked Question About Cloud Computing offers answers to cloud models, cloud architecture, virtualization and other questions.
Let’s take a quick look at the meaning of software, platform, and infrastructure as a service.
Software as a service
Software as a service allows end-users connect to and use cloud-based apps via the internet, such as emails, calendars, Microsoft Office 365, Google G-Suite, etc.
Cloud vendors allow you to work with the procured software without having to worry about the underlying infrastructure or updating security patches.
We can rent advanced business applications, such as customer relationship management (CRM), enterprise resources planning (ERP), and document management, and pay for their use by subscription.
SaaS Characteristics
The application is hosted in a cloud provider’s data center and can be accessed via a web browser or subscription.
End users don’t need to worry about software updates or patches.
It allows organizations to quickly get up and running with an application at minimal upfront cost.
The pricing model is pay as you go.
Uses Cases
It saves money because the SaaS service automatically scales down and up according to how much use is made. For example, the taxation software is in high demand during tax filing and hotel reservations are in high demand during holidays.
SaaS makes it simple to “mobilize” your workforce. Users can access data and apps from any internet connected device or mobile. No matter what device is being used, the service provider will ensure data security.
SaaS allows organizations to access applications such as CRM, ERP, for which they cannot afford to purchase, install, and manage the hardware, middleware, or software necessary to build that resource.
All data is stored in cloud storage and can be accessed from anywhere.
End users can access the application directly from their web browser without needing to download any software. Some apps require plugins but there is no need for end users to purchase and install any special software. It is useful for startups and short-term projects.
Platform as a Service
Platform as a service provides an environment on demand for developing, testing and delivering software applications. It makes it easier for developers to create web or mobile apps faster without having to worry about the underlying infrastructure such as servers, storage, networking, and networking.
Characteristics of PaaS
The development environment can be accessed via the internet so that the development team can collaborate on projects even if they are located in different places.
Developers can concentrate on writing the code
