IaaS, PaaS and SaaS: The Three Service Models
Cloud services come in different levels of ‘how much do you manage yourself’. The three common labels — IaaS, PaaS and SaaS — describe a spectrum from raw building blocks to ready-to-use software.
Recognising which model a service uses helps you understand what you are responsible for and what the provider handles on your behalf.
A Useful Analogy: Pizza
A popular way to picture this is making dinner. IaaS is buying ingredients and cooking yourself; PaaS is a ready-to-bake base you top and finish; SaaS is having the pizza delivered. Each removes more work, and more control, than the last.
| Model | You manage | Provider manages | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| IaaS | OS, apps, data | Servers, network, storage | A virtual server you configure |
| PaaS | Your code and data | Everything underneath | A managed app-hosting platform |
| SaaS | Just your settings and data | The whole stack | Email, CRM or accounting software |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which model is best?
The one that removes work you do not want without taking away control you need. Most projects blend all three.
If you need a hand with any of this, your Progressive Robot delivery team is ready to help. Raise a ticket from the Support area of your client portal or speak to your account manager and we will guide you through the next steps.