What’s the difference between SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS?

Technology has evolved rapidly in recent decades. Dipping computer and server hardware prices led to the introduction and adoption of modern cloud computing. Models such as software as a service (SaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and infrastructure as a service (IaaS) have emerged largely as a result of the desire to harness the computing power of a grid (a network of servers).

Such intertwined technologies are often confused. This article will explore the idiosyncrasies, benefits, and drawbacks of SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS models.

Software as a Service | SaaS

Software as a service is a software licensing and delivering model that has gained significant traction in a number of applications from corporate to business, scientific, and even commercial. SaaS allows users to access proprietary software on a subscription basis (typically month-to-month or annual).

SaaS is an enormously cost-effective alternative to on-premise software installations and management. The SaaS model can deliver anything from construction planning software, property tax management, payroll and accounting, human resources management, and more.

SaaS revenue worldwide amounted to $79 billion in 2016. Statista predicts by 2027, worldwide SaaS revenue will hit $346…