What Are the 3 Cloud Computing Service Models?
Connection and accessibility are crucial in the modern world, and cloud computing allows you to work wherever you like, whenever you like. Cloud computing delivers on-demand computing services – applications, storage, and processing power, usually over the internet. No more server configuration or software compatibility issues – a seamless solution to the replacement of physical hardware requirements.
How do Cloud Computing Service Models Work?
Instead of maintaining computing infrastructure or data servers, companies can rent access to things like applications or storage from a cloud service provider. There are 3 types of cloud computing service models – Infrastructure-as-a-Service, Platform-as-a-Service, and Software-as-a-Service. Their main function’s being ‘Host’, ‘Build’, and ‘Consume’ respectively.
1. Infrastructure-as-a-Service
Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) provides computing resources over the cloud. An IaaS cloud can give you computing infrastructures such as servers, storage, and networking hardware along with their maintenance and support. Businesses can avail computing resources based on their requirement without having to install hardware on-premise.
Benefits of IaaS
- Companies using IaaS can be innovative as collaboration becomes easier on a cloud server.
- There is no need to install new hardware as everything required by a business is already available on the cloud server.
- Hardware being used inside the office requires regular maintenance; cloud servers eliminate the need for maintenance making businesses more cost-effective.
2. Software-as-a-Service
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) is a model of cloud computing that provides cloud-based web applications. There is no need to download or install any software to use SaaS services. Some common examples of SaaS models are Google Docs, Google G Suite, Microsoft Office 365, Dropbox, etc.
Benefits of SaaS
- SaaS is available for use from any computer on-the-go.
- Since SaaS is usually configured on the cloud and generally available as pay-per-use subscription models, it brings down the initial cost for software deployment.
- SaaS also allows you to access the services anywhere, including mobile applications which drastically improve accessibility for users.
3. Platform-as-a-Service
Platform-as-a-service (PaaS) allows the users to code, test, and organize different applications on a cloud-hosted environment. PaaS makes it an easier process for companies who are engaged in software development. This form of service makes it easier for multiple developers and users to work together.
Benefits of PaaS
- Developers can build applications with the help of PaaS faster than usual since they don’t have to configure and maintain their own platforms and infrastructure.
- PaaS supports multiple programming languages so that a software development team can easily implement them to build applications for different clients. Windows Azure supports C#, JavaScript, F#, Java, PowerShell, Python, and TypeScript.
- PaaS enhances collaboration as it connects developers who are spread across different locations.
All business models are interdependent and come together to form an efficient virtual backbone for any company. There are different ways that each service model facilitates a business.
IaaS (Infrastructure-as-a-Service) provides physical support in the form of resources including server, hosting, etc. to create the virtual computing space. If you want to host your website or marketplace, you will need cloud-based hosting services. Note that you will need IaaS for any cloud-based services, i.e., your Google Drive or OneDrive makes you a complimentary consumer by default.
PaaS (Platform-as-a-Service) is for you if there is a need to provide a unique cloud-based platform for your customers or for your in-house teams to collaborate across multiple software and data fields.
SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) is perfect for your small business that needs cloud-based software for your specific deliverables which may or may not require a dedicated PaaS.
Three Organizations that offer Cloud Computing Services
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) Cloud Computing Services
- Google Cloud
- Microsoft Azure
