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Cloud computing is a very broad term encompasses anything from Facebook to Twitter to Google Apps to Amazon’s Simple Storage Service (S3). When considering cloud computing  it’s important to decide exactly what kind of cloud you’re talking about.

At the most basic level, cloud computing makes applications, software and other services available to consumers on demand via the web. On a more technical level, the cloud is divided into three categories: Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS).

Each “aaS” (careful how you pronounce that) is very different so you need to understand which is right for you and your business.

Is SaaS right for you?

A SaaS system provides network-based access and management of software in a centralized location that can be accessed remotely via the web. It replaces the applications that run on the end-user’s desktop. SaaS allows for frequent integration into a larger network of communication software. This is a one-to-many model that helps your business focus on your competitive advantage rather than infrastructure.

Flexibility and scalability are two main benefits, however SaaS is criticized for its lack of personal control (these systems are centrally controlled), the need to alter business processes to fit the system, and security issues.

Example: Google Apps

Is PaaS right for you?

PaaS allows companies to rent hardware and software to build applications, rather than owning, running and developing on an internal IT infrastructure. You get severs, server operating systems and server maintenance all rolled into one bill — but it’s up to you to run and serve applications and data off those servers. This allows a business to support the entire life cycle of creating and delivering web applications and services right on the web.

PaaS features include application design and development, testing, deployment, hosting, collaboration and more. PaaS facilitates the customization of existing SaaS applications. An ideal PaaS system should provide all service options in an integrated environment.

Example: force.com, a subset of salesforce.com

Is IaaS right for you?

IaaS is the base level of the cloud computing stack. Essentially IaaS serves as a foundation for PaaS and SaaS in terms of execution. The whole cloud infrastructure (i.e. servers, routers, hardware, firewall, storage, etc.) is provided by an IaaS vendor. You get the hardware but not the software; you can run any operating system on your servers and set up the development or production environment as you please, but you never have to pay directly for any hardware. This provides you with a place to host and execute your own cloud services. If you’re looking to self-host your company’s data, you will need to look into an infrastructure provider to do this.

Example: Amazon’s EC2

If you need an online network to enhance collaboration, you are looking for SaaS. If you need a system to support the entire lifecycle of your web application then you need PaaS. If you are looking for a virtual place to host and manage your data then you need IaaS.

Before implementing a cloud strategy, you must identify your needs and then figure out which service can provide them for you. You only pay for what is actually used on all these services which is a great cost-saving option for every business.

After deploying your “aaS” don’t forget you then need to have a backup plan in the case for any point of failure, accidental deletion, human error, hack, or glitch in your system.

Related articles by Zemanta

• Choices in Cloud Computing and What’s Right for You (punetech.com)
• Is PaaS Really Going To Replace SaaS? Even For Security? (securecloudreview.com)
• Explaining Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) (brighthub.com)