When you are looking for information regarding cloud computing for business, chances are you encounter these terms: SaaS, PaaS and IaaS. In layman’s term, what are they?

SaaS (Software as a Service) refers to software (or cloud applications) that can be accessed on demand. It is delivered on the cloud, meaning you don’t have to purchase the software and/or install it in your computers.

PaaS (Platform as a Service) allows application developers to create their own cloud applications, accessing resources required to develop, deploy, test and host applications on the cloud without the need to bother with the facilities needed to support the projects.

IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) takes PaaS a step further; instead of platform-only, IaaS gives users more power and flexibility by allowing them to run any applications on any computer infrastructure they choose – servers, network equipments, etc. – in the cloud (called “cloud hardware.”) No more on-premise IT-related headaches (i.e. broken hard drives, computer networking problems, etc.)

SaaS, PaaS and IaaS share some common traits. They are all delivered over the web, and services can be accessed in the cloud on demand, usually via subscription payment or pay-as-you-go. You can easily upgrade or downgrade plans – in real time – to accommodate your business’ needs for cloud business solutions.

To explain better, I recommend you to watch this very useful video by Christopher Barnatt of ExplainingComputers.com, exploring deeper into SaaS, PaaS and IaaS:

You can also learn more from Wikipedia: SaaS, PaaS, IaaS

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