IaaS, PaaS & SaaS: Choosing the Right Cloud Solution for your Business

Nowadays, the term “cloud” is widely known as an online solution for managing files and storing data. Businesses big and small utilize cloud services, but many are unaware of the extensive capabilities the cloud can offer. As a startup, becoming familiar with your cloud options such as Iaas, PaaS, and SaaS, and knowing the differences, benefits, and drawbacks of each one will help you choose the solution(s) that will help your company be more efficient, cutting-edge, and cost-effective.

What is IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS?

Before diving into the various cloud solutions, it is important to have an understanding of what “the cloud” is. 

What is the cloud?

Rather than acquiring physical servers and equipment that store, manage, and operate data and software, “the cloud” is composed of several servers that are located in large data centres throughout the world, accessed by customers remotely over the internet. By using cloud computing, users don’t have to manage physical servers or run software on their own machines.

IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS

Cloud computing can be broken down into three main categories: IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS. All three types offer enormous benefits to businesses, but understanding their differences will help you determine which solution(s) is the best fit for your company’s needs. 

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

Allows customers to manage their company’s resources — network, servers, data storage, etc. — on the cloud. IaaS is made of scalable and automated computer resources that businesses can access themselves via a virtual data centre in the cloud, and can purchase resources on an as-needed basis rather than having to buy the hardware outright.

IaaS uses virtualization technology and is usually provided to the customer through a dashboard or an API. When using IaaS, you are responsible for managing things such as applications, runtime, OSes, and the IaaS provider manages the servers, hard drives, networking, virtualization, and storage.

Platform as a Service (PaaS) 

Used by developers allowing them to host, build, and deploy consumer-facing apps through a web-based platform. Using PaaS, developers are given the freedom to concentrate on building software without worrying about operating systems, software updates, storage, or infrastructure.

Software as a Service (SaaS) 

SaaS is the most common cloud service with applications designed for everyday use for both individual consumers and businesses. The majority of SaaS programs run directly through your web browser, and rarely require downloads or installation on individual devices — a massive benefit for teams working remotely or working across international borders. 

By using SaaS applications, your business does not need to manage technical issues, servers, or storage which can often be a huge burden on time and costs if you do not have a dedicated I.T. person or department in place. 

Examples of IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS

IaaS: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure

PaaS: Google App Engine, Heroku, Apprenda

SaaS: HubSpot, Dropbox, DocuSign

To learn the advantages and concerns of each cloud solution, and when you should implement each one, read our full blog.

About the Innovation Cluster

The Innovation Cluster is a not-for-profit organization that drives innovative, determined entrepreneurs in the formation and growth of their technology-based companies. Supporting four key sectors, agtech, digital, healthcare and with a strong focus on cleantech, the Innovation Cluster’s dynamic programming and mentoring ensures start-ups find their best path to market.

Core Funding is provided by The City of Peterborough, Trent University, Fleming College, Peterborough Region Angel Network, The City of Kawartha Lakes, OMAFRA, Feddev Ontario, Ontario Trillium Foundation and Peterborough Utilities Group. Visit www.innovationcluster.ca