What Is SaaS Software?

What Is Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)?

SaaS software, or software-as-a-service, is a type of cloud computing that allows users to access an application via an internet browser instead of downloading software to a desktop computer or business network.

It is a complete software solution that can be purchased from a cloud service provider on a pay-as-you-go basis and is one of the most popular forms of cloud computing.

Mobile SaaS applications are software programs that can be accessed on a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet.

There are many advantages to using SaaS software, including access to free client software, sophisticated applications, and the ability to access app data from anywhere.

SaaS also makes it easy for businesses to mobilize their workforce, allowing employees to use SaaS apps from any internet-enabled computer or mobile device.

Key Aspects of SaaS

SaaS software, also known as web-based software, hosted software or on-demand software, is a type of software that businesses use across the internet. It's common for SaaS applications to include email, office tools, and calendaring.

With this type of software solution, a provider gives consumers network-based access to a copy of the application that the provider built specifically for SaaS distribution. The application then runs on the provider’s servers.

Cloud-Based Software

SaaS software is stored on servers that can be accessed through the cloud. SaaS-based software and cloud-based software are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but there are some key differences between the two.

However, SaaS is a component of cloud computing, while cloud-based computing has two other main components:

Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) and Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS). A SaaS-based application is any type of software that does not run on business premises and instead runs via a web browser and is hosted on the cloud.

Method of Software Delivery

SaaS, or software as a service, is a type of subscription software that delivers data to users through the internet instead of traditional, on-premise software models.

With SaaS, businesses can access their data from any device that has an internet connection and a web browser.

This makes it much more convenient and accessible than traditional on-premise software, which often requires extensive hardware. Additionally, because SaaS vendors host and maintain databases, services, and the code that built the application, businesses using this model don't have to worry about these things themselves.

When you buy software, you usually have to pay extra each year for support and maintenance. This can add up over time, and it can be hard to keep up with required IT responsibilities in-house.

With on-premise software, you have the choice to outsource certain IT responsibilities so you don't have to worry about them as much.

Key Differences From Cloud Computing

SaaS (Software as a Service) and cloud have some key differences that businesses should be aware of, starting with customization.

With cloud computing, users can manage and customize applications on a server that's hosted by a third party remotely. Data for these services are accessed via the internet.

However, with SaaS, users do not have to worry about maintaining physical servers or cloud-based software applications. Instead, a subscription is paid to access an established software application via a web browser.

This means that users don't have the responsibility of maintaining software, although some customization functionalities may be lost.

No Extensive Hardware

For the majority of businesses, SaaS software does not necessitate the utilization of any particular hardware to host the software.

This can help businesses save money and remove the need to support hardware. Instead of using comprehensive hardware, the software provider manages and maintains the code, databases, and servers that are utilized for the applications.

SaaS providers manage the majority of the software responsibilities for businesses so that they can focus on achieving their goals.

Even though the hardware is not required, SaaS does need a strong and reliable internet connection. In the event that an internet connection is lost, many vendors have created offline capabilities as a safety measure.

Subscription Model

SaaS is a unique form of cloud-based software product in that it is paid for using a subscription model. This means that the customer pays a monthly fee to “rent” the use of the software product.

Although the customer has the right to use the product, they do not own it. In exchange for the monthly subscription, the customer has access to a product that is continually updated.

The subscription for this service is most commonly paid monthly, quarterly, or annually. Some vendors require an additional fee for support or maintenance, but many do not.

The majority of SaaS vendors do charge extra for a “premium” version, which can end up being an unplanned expense for businesses that want these advanced features.

SaaS Development Companies

The SaaS model can be highly advantageous for businesses of all sizes. Users can log into a SaaS application from nearly anywhere and from any device, which offers businesses a great deal of flexibility.

There is no need for installations or updates and the SaaS vendor is responsible for handling the scaling up of the app. This can save businesses a lot of money on internal overhead and IT costs.