“Pros and Cons of Software As a Service”

“Software as a Service” is a part of cloud computing which is under the category of Service Model.

What is service model? ‘A service model is an approach needed for any service delivery.’

In service model there are three types :-

1)Software as a service(SaaS)

2)Platform as a service(PaaS)

3)Infrastructure as a service(IaaS)

“SaaS :- SOFTWARE AS A SERVICE”

Software as a service(SaaS) is a method of delivering the software over the internet without installing on local servers or computers.Because of the delivery of software over the internet it avoids the installation and runs the applications on individual computer although it needs a paid/free subscription.

Example of SaaS:-

The best example of SaaS which we use on daily basis is GMAIL.

Gmail is an online service. While using Gmail, you are not actually hosting own email server. Server will be hosted by Google, and you are simply accessing it through your browser by sign in option.

The another best example of SaaS is Microsoft office 365.

Microsoft Office 365 is a SaaS that provides services, like SharePoint Online, Exchange Online, Lync Online and Office Professional Plus.Microsoft Online Services are subscription-based services.

Some other popular examples of SaaS are :-

Use OF SaaS:-

There are many different situations in which SaaS may be the most beneficial:

· Like small companies don’t have time for installing softwares on servers ,so they make use of SaaS.

· SaaS is used for short-term projects that require collaboration.

· It can be used in applications that are not in-demand very often, as tax software.

· For applications that need both web and mobile access.

Some Benefits of SaaS:-

1)Installation Time and memory:- It reduce the time of installation and saves the memory of own computer as software is already installed over the internet.No need to utilize the space in main memory of machines to store the data.

2) Cost Reduction:- As software is already installed on the internet so we don’t have to buy the software we have to just subscribe in it as per monthly or yearly basis. Maintenance cost is also reduced.As data storing is on the internet,no need to buy special storage devices like pen-drive or hard disc drive,etc.

3) Easily Accessible:- As the software service is online,we can access it easily from anywhere and anytime.All we just need is an internet connection.

4)Less Responsibility:- Provider is responsible for updation of new feature.Software is maintained by the provider and not by the customer.Also SaaS providers offer many subscription options and flexibility to change subscriptions as and when needed. Hence customer does not have to worry about maintenance or subscription plan.

5)Recovery option:- As the data is installed and stored in the cloud storage provided by the service provider in a remote location,if in any case if data is lost, then there is an option of backup and recovery of data. Hence it reduces data loss.

Disadvantages of SaaS:-

1)Data Security:- SaaS applications are on the internet and provider provide security for data.But we cannot trust easily on provider and hence data is not highly secure.

2)Need Internet Connection:- While using software which is online then it needs continue internet connection and if internet connection is slow then software may also run a slower speed.