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Cloud Service Models

Updated Feb 28, 2020 ·

Software as a Service (SaaS)​

SaaS delivers applications over the internet that are fully managed by the provider.

  • Gmail is an example, accessible from any device without installing software
  • Designed for ease of use and broad appeal
  • Offers limited customization to focus on simplicity

SaaS lets users use the application while the provider handles updates, security, and infrastructure.

Platform as a Service (PaaS)​

PaaS provides a ready-to-use environment for building and deploying applications.

  • Vendor manages hardware, networking, and the operating system
  • Developers focus on coding and deploying applications
  • Speeds up development by removing environment setup tasks

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)​

IaaS gives full control over virtualized resources while the vendor manages the physical hardware.

  • Users configure virtual networks, storage, and operating systems
  • Supports any software or application deployment
  • Vendor handles hardware maintenance, security, and availability
  • Offers the highest level of customization for complex setups

IaaS is ideal when you need flexibility and control over infrastructure without managing physical servers.

X as a Service (XaaS)​

Cloud services continue to expand beyond SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS.

  • Includes disaster recovery, communications, and monitoring services
  • Businesses can consume specialized capabilities on demand
  • Extends cloud benefits to nearly every IT function