What is the Difference Between Cloud computing and SaaS?

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Cloud computing and Software as a Service (SaaS) are related but distinct concepts in the world of technology. Here are the main differences between them:

  • Cloud computing refers to the use of various services, such as software development platforms, servers, storage, and software, over the internet. It enables users to customize and manage software applications on remotely hosted servers, with access to data provided through the internet. Cloud computing can include SaaS, as well as other service models like Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS).
  • SaaS is a subset of cloud computing and is a method of software delivery over the internet. With SaaS, ready-to-use software is provided on a subscription basis, without any responsibility to maintain the software. Examples of SaaS-based applications include Google G-Suite, Office 365, Salesforce, Cisco Webex, and Zendesk.

In summary, SaaS is a component of cloud computing, focusing on the delivery of software over the internet. Cloud computing, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of services, including SaaS, IaaS, and PaaS. While SaaS is exclusively a method of software delivery, cloud computing offers various IT management alternatives to on-premise solutions.

Comparative Table: Cloud computing vs SaaS

The main differences between Cloud Computing and SaaS (Software as a Service) are as follows:

Cloud Computing SaaS
Cloud Computing comprises different components, including infrastructure, operating systems, servers, data, networking, and software applications. SaaS is a subset of Cloud Computing, specifically focusing on software delivery as a service.
Cloud Computing offers additional services other than just SaaS, such as Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS). SaaS is a type of cloud computing, providing software to users over the internet.
In Cloud Computing, licensing models vary, with most services using a pay-as-you-go approach, meaning you only pay for the resources or services used over a specified period. With SaaS, the data resides with the service provider, and the service provider can use the data as they see fit.

In summary, Cloud Computing is a broader concept that encompasses various services and components, while SaaS is a specific type of Cloud Computing focused on delivering software as a service over the internet.