Cloud Computing and Its Types – Which Is Needed When?

Cloud computing has become a part of our everyday lives with the digital transformation and essential technology it provides. But to have a better understanding of what cloud computing is, one must have a fair knowledge of cloud services. What is cloud computing, how does it work and why do we need it?

Cloud computing services include Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), and Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS).

Let’s simplify this with an example. PaaS is more like a hotel where you ask the hotel staff what you want rather than working yourself. IaaS is the lease for your hotel. You don’t get to own the hotel, but you can upgrade and change it as per your wish. SaaS is the common room in a hostel with pre-set rules, and that must be shared with other people. Collectively all of them can work together.

Most companies wonder which type of cloud computing is right for them. Are they all the same? Are there any differences? Is one better than the other?

All 3 types of cloud computing have several advantages. PaaS for example is seen as the best choice for small businesses and startups. It is cost-effective, allows companies to focus on what they specialize in, and even creates applications faster. Moreover, PaaS can be regarded as ‘future-proof’ as it gives companies access to state-of-the-art systems and more.

IaaS, like PaaS, also helps companies in saving costs, as companies do not have to pay monthly or annual fees. With IaaS companies can scale down with ease as per their needs. It also gives an ‘on-demand’ access that allows companies to pay only for the services they use.

The most popular form of cloud computing used by those companies is SaaS. When using it, the already installed and configured software helps companies save time and avoid issues that can get in the way of software deployment. The multi-tenant environment reduces costs as well. Additionally, the provider upgrades the software themselves and makes these upgrades available for customers. SaaS is seen as an extremely easy-to-use system.

Although SaaS is the most popular form of cloud computing, it can be challenging to determine which of the three is best for a certain firm. The reality is that each cloud service has its advantages and disadvantages and that various organizations should choose the one that best meets their needs. IaaS gives you greater control over the apps and processes but is more expensive, whereas SaaS is the most popular sort of cloud computing and managing infrastructure isn’t a hassle. PaaS is recognized to be the greatest for developers, but it comes with its own set of disadvantages as well.