SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS: Where do the Differences Lie?
A Guest Post by Christoph Leitner
Cloud computing solutions can provide valuable technology that supports business growth strategies. There are several models available for IT teams to choose from, but it can be challenging to distinguish the differences between these models.
Most companies use a combination of SaaS, PaaS, IaaS, and other services to provide the technology needed for business solutions. The problem, however, is that most layman business players cannot even distinguish between the three. If — for example, we considered online web scraping software, would it be correct to classify it as infrastructure, a platform or service? It is indeed SaaS, but you can see how the lines could get greyed. This review will aid you in distinguishing between IaaS vs. PaaS vs. SaaS and then comparing the three to help IT managers determine which option is the best fit for their business.
What is SaaS?
The most prominent type of cloud service is SaaS, or Software as a Service. These companies’ software can vary significantly to fulfill a broad array of business needs.
Some of the most common SaaS companies provide software used for word processing, email, or design. You can use a SaaS application through the internet without the requirement for installation in a single workstation.
Data is another huge SaaS player. Data retrieval is a vital service that reputable SaaS companies can provide for business. These days data drives strategy, and thus for companies to find success in a game of ones and zeros, they require a viable means of scraping and implementing retrieved data. Most web scraping tools are built online these days as SaaS.
SaaS vendors manage nearly every aspect of the service, including applications, servers, data, storage, and operating systems. Many SaaS companies provide services that are accessible to individuals with any level of technological expertise, such as TrackTime24’s online employee leave management software.
Google G Suite and Microsoft Office 365 are valuable SaaS services used by many companies for critical everyday tasks.
What is IaaS?
IaaS stands for Infrastructure as a Service. This cloud computing service model is similar to the typical hardware typically used in computing solutions. However, IaaS allows IT managers to use the IaaS provider’s infrastructure to take advantage of a virtual service without purchasing the actual hardware.
IaaS is incredibly scalable, which enables future flexibility while maintaining total control of the service’s infrastructure. Amazon and Google are famous IaaS examples that have become household names in the modern age.
What is PaaS?
The PaaS acronym stands for Platform as a Service. These cloud services offer a framework for businesses to use to build their own applications and customize projects. PaaS companies provide infrastructure, operation management, and software updates.
Web developers only have to worry about building software applications while the PaaS company manages the infrastructure they use. Common PaaS examples include the Google App Engine, and Microsoft Azure or cloud-deployment platforms like Code Capsules, or Digital Ocean.
IaaS vs PaaS
IaaS is the most flexible cloud computing model, allowing easily automated processes and the ability to purchase hardware depending on consumption. IaaS also makes the service scalable for future growth while enabling business owners to maintain control over the infrastructure.
While PaaS also offers some scalability, it does not provide the same user control as IaaS. All of the data in a PaaS solution reside in third-party servers. However, PaaS can be necessary when developers need to streamline a project and maximize custom applications’ production efficiency.
PaaS vs. SaaS
While PaaS can help shorten the timeline of a long-term, complex project, users must manage software updates and install the platform on every computer. SaaS is a better option for businesses that need a service that is accessible to large teams via the internet.
Short-term projects that need quick collaboration can benefit more from SaaS services. Smaller companies may also prefer the automated hardware and software updates included with SaaS. Plus, these services frequently offer better accessibility from the web and mobile.
IaaS vs PaaS vs SaaS
The level of cost and control associated with the different service models are the primary distinguishing features of IaaS vs. PaaS vs. Saas. Despite offering the least control, SaaS is the most popular service model because the vendor provides complete management of the associated process with minimal cost.
PaaS offers more control while continuing vendor management of operating systems, but these services are more expensive than SaaS. While SaaS is ideal for a businesses’ fluctuating needs, PaaS allows companies to tackle complex projects and applications.
IaaS has the highest costs of any of the service models but offers the most flexibility and control. Companies using IaaS can execute complete control over infrastructure while benefiting from the vendor’s physical storage and servers.
Finding the Best Cloud Computing Service For You
Choosing the best model of cloud computing service will depend on your unique business needs. Many IT managers find that the best strategy involves incorporating all three service models into their technology strategies depending on their tasks.
Traditional hardware still plays a vital role in many business tasks, but a growing number of businesses now depend on cloud services for their daily operations. IaaS, PaaS, and Saas all have unique benefits that can help your business grow and reduce costs while maximizing efficiency.
No matter what service model may suit you best, consider adding a cloud computing service to your business growth strategy.
About the Author
Christoph is a code-loving father of two beautiful children. He is a full-stack developer and a committed team member at Zenscrape.com — a subsidiary of saas.industries. When he isn’t building software, Christoph can be found spending time with his family or training for his next marathon.
Originally published at The Daily MBA.
