SaaS (Software-as-a-Service)
It is translated as follows: “software as a service.” In this model, the service provider uses its own Internet application and allows consumers to use it over the World Wide Web. Main features of SaaS:
- Service users do not pay for updates, installation, maintenance of used hardware and software.
- Improvement and updating of the service is carried out transparently for users — they do not need to manually perform any manipulations for this.
- The provider charges a fee for using the service. The price is determined by the duration of access to the service (for example, per month) or the volume of operations performed.
PaaS (Platform-as-a-Service)
Translated as “platform as a service”. In this model, the provider invites customers to use its cloud infrastructure to install its software. Here we are talking about entire platforms: OS, DBMS, as well as all kinds of development tools. Main features of PaaS:
- Only the provider has access to manage the PaaS cloud infrastructure. It also defines the set of available platforms, settings and services.
- The cost is determined by the volume of services provided, which can be measured by the time of their use, the number of transactions, passing traffic and other factors.
IaaS (Infrastructure-as-a-Service)
Translated as “infrastructure as a service.” Unlike the first two, this model assumes greater freedom of action — the consumer can personally manage the services provided. These can be tools for managing and controlling a wide variety of resources.
DaaS (Desktop-as-a-Service)
DaaS model — it is a logical continuation of SaaS. Here, the service is not specific software, but a workplace that is ready to use and equipped with all the necessary tools. The 3data data center network uses this particular service model, as it is the most modern and expandable.
In a nutshell, any of the above services is designed to remove a certain part of the time and financial costs for the deployment and support of your IT service (be it a business card website, a 1C server in the cloud, or a large corporate project) . The whole difference lies in which part of the worries you leave for yourself, and which part? give control to the service provider.
We hope this material has helped you understand the variety of “as a service” models.
