IaaS vs PaaS: Which Is Better for Your Business?

Your small business is ready to grow – but do you have the technical knowledge and in-house expertise to manage it?

Cloud-based services are an ideal option for growing businesses to expand their IT services and applications even with limited in-house expertise.

However, knowing which ones are right for your business is tricky. Here, we look at SaaS vs Iaas vs PaaS cloud services to help you choose which option is best for your business growth.

SaaS, IaaS, PaaS: What Do They All Mean?

There are so many acronyms for cloud IT services it’s easy to lose track. Let’s go back to basics for a moment.

Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) is very common. You probably use it without even realizing! Services such as Gmail, for example, are SaaS applications.

The software is based in the cloud and is accessed via the web from any device using a unique login such as a username and password. It is most often run on a subscription service.

Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) provides a virtual environment that acts as a data center. A common example of IaaS you may have heard of is Microsoft Azure.

Imagine the servers, networking setup, and storage all being run by someone else. All you need to do is install and use the tools and software you like, without worrying about how to make the back-end of the system work.

Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) allows software developers and engineers to test applications without needing to install and manage the infrastructure behind it. An example of PaaS would be Google App Engine.

Databases, operating systems, and servers are all managed by the PaaS service. Software developers can then create and test applications without investing in these tools on their own system.

Now you know the difference between the acronyms, how will you know which will solve your IT problems?

SaaS vs Iaas vs Paas: Three Key Differences to Help You Choose

IaaS and PaaS may sound similar in terms of what they offer, but the differences between them will help you to decide which one is best for your small business.

1. IaaS Delivers Additional Security Options

PaaS is suitable for most companies when it comes to security. However, organizations with sensitive information, such as financial or healthcare businesses, will have more peace of mind with IaaS.

IaaS allows you to build additional security into the platform for your chosen applications and software. This will help your business remain compliant to industry standards, even with custom apps.

2. PaaS Offers Greater Flexibility for Users

IaaS is ideal for administrators who want tight control over their operating systems and applications.

PaaS, however, is more flexible for businesses interested in creating bespoke applications. The framework of a PaaS option provides great flexibility for customization. The service is the platform for the build, rather than the provision of software, making it a highly customizable solution.

3. SaaS Is Perfect for Growing Companies

The cost-efficiencies and scalability of SaaS mean web-based cloud applications are perfect for startups and growing SMEs. The flexibility of web-based apps, such as employees using their own devices for increased productivity, is hugely beneficial to business and staff alike.

SaaS is also easy to scale as your business grows. There’s no need to install new software or licenses on each device as you take on new staff. Instead, one login for each user is all that’s required.

Support for SaaS is also ideal for non-tech companies who haven’t the budget for an in-house IT team. The applications are all managed by the vendor, so all you need to use is log in to use the software.

Use the Right Tools for Your Business

Understanding the IaaS vs PaaS debate – let alone knowing where SaaS comes in – is a complex project. What you need for your business all depends on your business vision, aims for growth, and technical experience.

Business tooling and roadmaps can help you get started in a tech environment even when you’re not sure whether to use SaaS, IaaS, or PaaS solutions. Contact us today to find out how to get started on your tech-speak-free technical journey.