IaaS Versus PaaS Versus SaaS

 

Source : Red Hat

Source : Packt Publishing

SaaS: Software as a Service

Known as cloud application services
Represents the most commonly utilized option for businesses in the cloud market.
SaaS utilizes the internet to deliver applications, which are managed by a third-party vendor, to its users. 
A majority of SaaS applications run directly through your web browser, which means they do not require any downloads or installations on the client side.

SaaS Characteristics

Managed from a central location
Hosted on a remote server
Accessible over the internet
Users not responsible for hardware or software updates

When to Use SaaS

Startups or small companies that need to launch ecommerce quickly and don’t have time for server issues or software
Short-term projects that require quick, easy, and affordable collaboration
Applications that aren’t needed too often, such as tax software
Applications that need both web and mobile access

PaaS: Platform as a Service

Known as Platform as a Service (PaaS)
Provide cloud components to certain software while being used mainly for applications. 
PaaS delivers a framework for developers that they can build upon and use to create customized applications. 
All servers, storage, and networking can be managed by the enterprise or a third-party provider while the developers can maintain management of the applications.

PaaS Characteristics                                                                                                                                  Builds on virtualization technology, so resources can easily be scaled up or down as your business changes                                                                                                                                            Provides a variety of services to assist with the development, testing, and deployment of apps, Accessible to numerous users via the same development application, Integrates web services and databases

When to Use PaaS

PaaS can streamline workflows when multiple developers are working on the same development project
If other vendors must be included, PaaS can provide great speed and flexibility to the entire process
Beneficial in creating customized applications
Reduces cost and it can simplify some challenges that come up if you are rapidly developing or deploying an app

IaaS: Infrastructure as a Service

Known as Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
Highly scalable and made of automated compute resources.
Fully self-service for accessing and monitoring computers, networking, storage, and other services. 
IaaS allows businesses to purchase resources on-demand and as-needed instead of having to buy hardware outright

IaaS Characteristics

Cost varies depending on consumption

     Services are highly scalable

     Multiple users on a single piece of hardware

     Organization retain complete control of the infrastructure

     Dynamic and flexible

When to Use IaaS

Startups and small companies may prefer IaaS to avoid spending time and money on purchasing and creating hardware and software.
Larger companies may prefer to retain complete control over their applications and infrastructure, but they want to purchase only what they actually consume or need.  Companies experiencing rapid growth like the scalability of IaaS, and they can change out specific hardware and software easily as their needs evolve.

Source : BMC blogs