As-a-service (-aaS or AAS) are business models in which something is provided to customers (either internally or externally) as a service. Primarily, AAS offerings are focused on services delivered via the cloud. In this blog, we’re only going to explore three types of AAS offerings, but many more exist, including:
- Anything / Everything-as-a-service (XaaS): A general category of cloud computing and remote access services. SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS are all examples of XaaS.
- Function-as-a-service (FaaS): A type of cloud computing that allows users to run individual functions or pieces of code without needing to manage the entire application or infrastructure.
- Containers-as-a-service (CaaS): Helps IT departments and software developers manage and deploy apps using container-based virtualization. (FYI: There are multiple definitions of CaaS, including commerce-as-a-service, content-as-a-service, communications-as-a-service, etc.)
For a near complete list of AAS offerings, check out this big -aaS list from Ryan LaFlamme.
What’s the Difference Between IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS?
IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS are cloud computing services that offer an alternative to on-premise IT solutions (where data, apps, and software run on in-house computer servers). On-premise (or on-prem) solutions are a rarity nowadays, but think of the olden days of Adobe InDesign on CD-ROM.
The graphic below provides a high-level overview of the primary differences between IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS from an IT perspective (i.e., this is primarily for the techies. All others to see layman's terms below).
Information-As-A-Service (IaaS)
What is IaaS? |
IaaS is a type of cloud computing that provides users with access to computing resources, like servers, storage, and networking. It allows users to rent these resources on a pay-as-you-go basis, so they don't need to invest in hardware or software upfront. IaaS customers have full control over the virtual machines and can install and configure their own software and applications. |
Who uses IaaS? |
|
What are examples of IaaS? |
|
What are the benefits of IaaS? |
|
What are the limitations of IaaS? |
|
Platform-As-A-Service (PaaS)
What is PaaS? |
PaaS is a cloud computing model in which customers can develop, run, and manage web applications without having to worry about the underlying infrastructure. PaaS provides customers a platform to build and deploy applications quickly and easily. |
Who uses PaaS? |
|
What are examples of PaaS? |
Sitecore's PaaS Products:
|
What are the benefits of PaaS? |
|
What are the limitations of PaaS? |
|
Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)
What is SaaS? |
SaaS is a cloud computing model in which software applications are hosted on a remote server, and customers access them through a web browser. SaaS eliminates the need for customers to install and manage the software on their own systems. |
Who uses SaaS? |
|
What are examples of SaaS? |
Sitecore's SaaS Products: |
What are the benefits of SaaS? |
|
What are the limitations of SaaS? |
|
In Summary
Each cloud computing model provides different levels of access to cloud resources and capabilities and can be used for different types of applications. As each serves a distinct purpose, it's essential to determine your business needs to ensure your chosen cloud services provide value.
Have any questions regarding Sitecore’s SaaS and PaaS products? Let us know.
Robyn James
Content Marketing Strategist | Sitecore Strategy MVP
Robyn brings over ten years of experience crafting impactful content marketing and communications solutions for a number of high-profile brands. With diverse sector experience—including healthcare, energy, tourism, hospitality, and telecommunications—she has a deep knowledge set and the ability to easily adapt to differing industry needs.
Robyn is adept at blending data-driven research with a pragmatic approach to creativity, delivering results that inform audiences, change perceptions, or inspire action. In her spare time, she enjoys digital painting, reading, and being a pet mom to her fluffy brood of three.