Saas and cloud-based products are often confused for the same thing, and while if a service exists in the cloud it can indeed be both, cloud-based services will not always be SaaS-based.
With cloud computing, a user can manage and customise their own software on a virtual server which is hosted by a third party. SaaS-based software is set up and ready to go, the user simply needs to have an internet connection and the ability to log in.
In order to understand the difference between Saas and cloud you first need to understand the individual setups.
SaaS stands for software as a service, and is a term used to describe any software that you run that is not located on your premises or ‘on prem’. It is almost always software that you access via a web browser and does not need extensive hardware to run. Microsoft 365 for example, is a Saas-based application.
Licencing is also different for Saas applications compared to the more traditional on-premise set-up, as you tend to rent the software from the vendor as appose to paying for server maintenance and software licences. The confusion lies because you would assume correctly that SaaS applications are running in the cloud.
Cloud computing refers to resources that are not actually sat in any location. It consists of virtual servers and is used for Saas (software as a service), IaaS (infrastructure as a service) and PaaS (platform as a service). An example of IaaS and PaaS would be Microsoft Azure.
IaaS and PaaS provide the user with more flexibility to manage and customise software and is more frequently used by developers as opposed to end users.
Saas offerings are fully formed applications that are ready for end users to log in and use. SaaS can be described as one of the components of the cloud. If you are after off-shelf software that is ready to go you will need a SaaS-based software.
Cloud software is a bit more complex and will require someone with a good knowledge of network infrastructure and development.
With all your data, software and infrastructure sat in the cloud there are no expensive maintenance and backup costs. All updates can be run as soon as needed and since the cloud is usually hosted by a third party such as Valto, you don’t need to worry about things being secure and up to date or paying an IT department. As cloud service providers we take care of the maintenance and troubleshooting for you.
The cloud is much more cost-effective for businesses, you only pay for what you are using and with virtual servers, you can increase storage at almost the click of a button.
Having your data and infrastructure in the cloud is future-proofing your business. Updates can be applied as soon as they come out, so you always have the latest version. The capabilities of the cloud continue to grow, and the advantage of the cloud is that it has the data to learn from its users and from this push out new updates based on how the users are working.
As Saas-based and cloud-based software and applications are accessed from the internet, you always have access to your programmes and data wherever you are. Gone are the days when you need to be in the office to access your network, you can be at home or in a coffee shop if you have WiFi.
SaaS and cloud storage come with encryption, layered authentication models and access control to ensure the protection of your data. It also offers fast and uncomplicated retrieval of accidentally lost or deleted data as it is automatically backed up.
Are SaaS or cloud-based solutions expensive?
SaaS or cloud-based solutions are very cost-effective. Typically, Saas involves renting software so the overall cost is cheaper as there are no server maintenance costs. It is also more time efficient as you do not need to waste time running lengthy upgrades. This is automatically taken care of for you by the vendor.
Is SaaS part of cloud computing?
Yes, SaaS-based software is usually software that has been fully developed and sits in the cloud. The end users then accesses the software by logging in via a web browser.
How can I move my business to the cloud?
If you have made the decision to move to the cloud, Valto can support you with all aspects of the move from initial development to ongoing support. Please contact us to find out to start your journey to the cloud.
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