Cloud computing is as amorphous a term as a literal cloud, but there are three basic types. They differ in the service the cloud utility offers: software, platform, or infrastructure. This may sound complicated, but it is fairly simple, because the acronyms are easy to decipher. Knowing which service fits your needs helps you avoid extra complications for you, your clients, and your employees. It also improves the efficiency and functionality of your IT.
SaaS: software as a service (Saas)
Most people know SaaS through the Google suite of apps. The end user accesses saved information and applications through a web browser, so the local hard drive holds nothing beyond the browser. Providers usually earn income from access fees, since users pay regularly. Users never touch the backend of the platform or infrastructure. Instead, the third-party manager handles all of these:
- Applications
- Security
- Database
- Operating systems
- Virtualization
- Servers
- Storage
- Networking
- Data centers
PaaS: Platform as a service (PaaS)
The platform behind the Google suite of apps is PaaS. It is everywhere, although most end users never notice it. The platform as a service model takes most of the behind the scenes programming out of users’ hands, including hardware and infrastructure. That gives them a cleaner, more focused, and cost effective experience. Teams use the platform for software development, usually through a user interface. A third party, such as Volico, manages the operating system, equipment, and networking. All PaaS systems run on virtualized server technology. Unlike SaaS, users interact directly with the applications on the system, but not with the other tools or resources.
IaaS: Infrastructure as a service (IaaS)
IaaS is the final and highest level of control after PaaS. It includes cloud storage and network infrastructure, plus scalable design and development resources with effectively unlimited storage and network capability. It is the self-service, DIY playground. You can access, monitor, and manage infrastructure, storage, networks, and firewalls without the physical cost of the hardware. In a typical IaaS setup, users manage applications, data, and operating systems. A third party may still take charge of virtualization, servers, hardware, and networking. However, many IaaS providers also offer optional extras such as databases, queues, or updating. The IaaS user has the most control of any cloud computing service over servers, storage, and networking.
IaaS or PaaS?
Platform as a service is a very different choice than infrastructure as a service. Users get different levels of control, and they need different knowledge to use the system well. When deciding which one to choose, it is common to explore these questions:
- Do we need to handle security and database development directly?
- Do we want to manage hardware, software updates, and patches?
- Do we have multiple developers working on the same project?
- Do we need to reduce overhead?
- Do we want to customize applications?
If the answers to some or most of these questions are yes, then IaaS is probably the better choice. Otherwise, PaaS will fulfill nearly all of your specific needs.
Ready to step up to IaaS or PaaS cloud computing services from Volico?
Selecting the right IT services for your company does not have to be daunting. To learn more about securing your data or applications in the cloud, ask one of our friendly experts to contact you.
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• Call: (305) 735-8098
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