Cloud computing is a type of computing in which the service is hosted over the internet rather than local server or personal device and are accessed using web-based services.
Cloud computing makes it possible to access any data, service or resource which you need as long as your device has an internet access. You don’t have to be in a specific place to access them.
Types of cloud computing
The primary services of cloud computing includes the following:
1) Software as a service
Software as a service is the delivery of a software as a web-based service. Users can use this software from any device with an internet connection after paying a fee.
With SaaS (Software as a service), the software can be quickly deployed since it is installed on the cloud servers. Saas makes it easy to have the same software on several devices.
Advantages
- Quick set-up and deployment.
- Lower up-front cost
Eg: Office 365, Dropbox
2) Platform as a service
Platform as a service or Paas is similar to Infrastructure as a service but is more complex. Paas offers fully configured development environment for developers to develop, test and deploy their applications. This eliminates the troubles in configuring and maintaining servers, infrastructure, storage, and databases.
Unlike infrastructure as a service, Paas may have a GUI (Graphical User Interface), Operating Systems and programming languages.
Advantages
- Access to app and data from anywhere.
- Saves money – Pay only for what you use.
- Reduced skill requirements.
Eg: Microsoft Azure,
Infrastructure as a service
Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) is the lowest level of cloud computing. Iaas allows you to rent the infrastructure, which includes servers, storage, Operating Systems etc. An IaaS provider will provide pre-installed and configured hardware or software on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Advantages
- Security
- Reliability
- Reduces capital expences.
Eg: Amazon EC2
