PaaS Definition: Short for platform-as-a-service, PaaS is a cloud computing option that allows developers to collaborate and create applications in virtual environments.
Most platforms provide some of the coding for the applications, allowing developers to create new applications much quicker. Other benefits include agility, efficiency, cost savings, and simplicity.
Enterprise PaaS Examples in Cloud Computing
PaaS Examples Microsoft
Platforms-as-a-service aren’t the only form of cloud computing. While new concepts are still emerging and those that already exist are becoming even more diverse, there are two other commonly-accept forms of cloud computing services.
IaaS: Infrastructure-as-a-service can be seen as a step down from platforms. The infrastructure is the bare bones needed to operate in the cloud. Oftentimes, platforms are built on top of public cloud infrastructure, in what’s commonly referred to as a stack.
SaaS: On the other end of the spectrum, software-as-a-service adds a layer on top of platforms. In these cases, the software is totally managed and operated in the cloud, so it’s ready to go right away.
Generally speaking, platforms and software are built in a public cloud, or a virtual environment that’s managed by a vendor that lots of people can tap into. This type of environment isn’t always suitable, whether for the sake of regulatory compliance or security. As such, private clouds can also be used, providing IT with more control over the management and security of a cloud environment. Hybrids also exist. In these cases, software or platforms make use of both public and private environments.