What does PaaS mean?

What does PaaS (Platform as a Service) mean?

Would you like to develop applications without investing in expensive infrastructure? Then PaaS could be the solution for you. PaaS (Platform as a Service) is a cloud solution that makes it easy for you to develop and deliver applications without needing your own infrastructure. With PaaS, you get access to a complete environment for development and distribution via a cloud provider. In addition to servers, storage and networks, you also get access to the development tools you need. What's more, you only pay for what you use. This allows you to get started in a simple, cost-effective and smart way. This is how PaaS – Platform as a Service – works.

PaaS, IaaS, SaaS – What is the difference between cloud services?

Cloud-based services, where you only purchase what you need from a cloud provider, are currently a very popular solution for digital business development. What these services have in common is that they all provide you with the IT infrastructure you need for your business via the internet, instead of you having to invest in hardware for storage and operation yourself. However, there are different service models depending on your needs. The most common models are IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a Service) and SaaS (Software as a Service).

Here's how they differ:

IaaS provides you with a cloud-based infrastructure with servers, storage and networks. The provider gives you access to the servers and takes care of their security. You take care of the rest. This means that you configure and manage your resources yourself. This makes IaaS a good solution if you have a business that requires a high level of customisation and control over your IT.

PaaS provides you with a platform that has the same infrastructure as IaaS, plus a development and operating environment with development tools, databases and middleware. At the same time, you get the services you need for your development and distribution. PaaS is a good solution for software developers who want to simplify their development process. It gives you access to the infrastructure and platform you need to control your code and development, without having to worry too much about the hardware.

SaaS is, as the name suggests, an application that is offered as a service. Examples include Google Docs and Salesforce. This is the most simple form of cloud service. You only use the finished software and don't need to think about the infrastructure or platform behind it – everything is handled by the provider. This solution is ideal if you only need access to the functions of a service and want everything to work without having to worry about servers or operations.

When you choose a Platform as a Service (PaaS) solution, you get a complete environment for development, testing and distribution in the cloud. What makes PaaS so suitable for developers is that, in addition to the basic infrastructure of servers, storage and networks, the model also includes development tools and services, middleware (operating systems, databases and runtime environments) and other resources you need to manage the entire lifecycle of what you are developing. This applies to both basic applications and more complex IT systems.

Read about container as a service for application operations

The benefits of using PaaS

The platform you choose when selecting a PaaS solution provides you with the software components you need for your development, and cloud computing makes the platform accessible and scalable.

This offers several benefits compared to having your own infrastructure for development:

Reduced costs. You reduce or avoid costs for infrastructure, software licences, middleware, development tools and other resources you need for your development and operations. With a cloud-based service, you only purchase the resources you need.

Reduces manual handling. The PaaS provider takes care of scaling, security, maintenance and infrastructure updates. This reduces manual handling so that you can focus more on development.

Reduced amount of coding. The development tools in the platform typically have pre-coded program components, for example for workflows, searches, directory and security services. This reduces the amount of coding and speeds up development for a shorter time-to-market.

Access advanced analytics tools. You can access advanced tools at a low cost via the platform, such as BI and analytics tools. These help you analyse data, which provides better forecasts and helps improve the design of your applications. Since PaaS means you only pay per use, you get the opportunity to use advanced development tools that only larger players can otherwise afford.

Remotely connect more users to the development environment. The cloud-based platform makes it easier if you have a geographically dispersed development team. You can easily remotely connect more users to the development environment if necessary, regardless of where they are located.
Efficient application lifecycle management. PaaS features give you more efficient application lifecycle management. You can manage the entire cycle from design, coding, testing, deployment and updates in a single integrated environment via the platform.

Consider this if you are considering using Platform as a Service for your development

The provider is responsible for and manages the infrastructure and platform. This means you have less to keep track of, allowing you to focus entirely on your development. Keep in mind, however, that this also means you have less control over servers, networks, storage and certain configuration options. If your development requires more control and customisation, it is a good idea to take a closer look at the additional options offered by the provider.

PaaS is a cost-effective solution, but be aware of what is included in the cloud service and what may be added later. How much will it cost if you need more resources and functionality? Are there any hidden costs in the service?

With PaaS, you control the applications and services you develop, while the cloud provider takes care of everything else, including updates and platform security. Data security affects both your data and what you develop, as well as the provider's infrastructure. To avoid misunderstandings or security breaches, it is therefore important that you agree on where the boundaries of responsibility lie for data security. Also look at how the provider handles data. If data is stored in other countries, this may affect regulatory requirements.

Does the supplier have specific tools and frameworks in the platform, and if so, how does this affect your development? Are you limited if certain tools and libraries are not supported by the platform?

In the end, your needs will determine whether PaaS is the best solution for you. If your business requires a high level of customisation, strict security and a lot of control over the infrastructure, IaaS may be a more suitable solution. Think about your needs in both the short and long term. This will make it easier to choose the right cloud solution and a provider that can meet your needs.

PaaS for your applications

At Binero, we offer high-performance Swedish cloud services for companies that are looking for sustainable digitalisation with high security and greater flexibility. Our CaaS (Container-as-a-Service) solution includes both PaaS and IaaS, and offers an open cloud infrastructure and a solid foundation for your development. We strive to offer freedom of choice. With our container-based applications, you can easily move your applications across different IT environments without being locked into specific providers. In addition, our applications are built with Kubernetes to promote freedom of choice and transparency for our customers. When it comes to security, the data stored with us is handled exclusively in Sweden and is regulated by Swedish regulations, Swedish law and the GDPR. We are ISO certified according to 9001, 14001 and 27001, and hold the global climate certificate Fossil Free Data.

Are you ready to take the next step in your digitalisation journey with PaaS?