How Managed IT Services can make business more efficient

As defined by IBM, cloud computing is “the delivery of on-demand computing resources – everything from applications to data centres – over the internet on a pay-for-use basis.” These shared pools of computer systems have redefined the way we do business and operate on the internet. The greatest benefit is that cloud services are made accessible to users on demand, via the providers’ servers.

What are the types of Cloud services?

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

IaaS provides businesses with resources such as hardware, servers and storage. This cloud-based resource helps build and manage data, without having to host and handle the servers themselves. Instead, managed IT services can do so virtually.

The benefits of IaaS include:

• Cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency
• Access to high quality IT resources
• Flexibility for users to pay for, or scale, the infrastructure based on requirements

Platform as a Service (PaaS)

PaaS is about providing a platform that allows developers to create software. As a cloud-based service also, these online programs are accessible to those wanting to develop their own customised applications.

The benefits of PaaS include:

• No requirement for upgrades, as these are handled by the PaaS provider through routine software maintenance
• Cost-efficiency through enabling an already-built platform for use, rather than developing from scratch

Examples of PaaS include Google App Engine and Microsoft Azure, which allow users to build, test and manage applications through their own respective data centres.

Software as a Service (SaaS)

The third type of cloud service is SaaS, which is managed from a centralised location and accessible over the internet. SaaS is generally used through subscription-based models for customers or businesses. These are amongst the most commonly used cloud services and helpful for businesses, locally and globally.

The benefits include:

• Scalability, depending on business use and growth
• Ongoing support services, generally offered through subscription options
• Hosting through remote services, and accessible anywhere through internet

Common examples of SaaS include Dropbox and Salesforce.

With clouds covering how and where data is stored, they account for an important function in business. Intello IT can help you shift to the Cloud by consulting with you to strategise a solution that fits your needs and budget. IaaS, PaaS and SaaS, can all be used at some capacity by businesses to ensure flexibility, scalability and efficiency.

To find out more, contact our team to assist.