Why Choose Hosting (IaaS) Over SaaS

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Why Choose Hosting (IaaS) Over SaaS: What You Need to Know

Those who plan on starting an online business will need to consider numerous factors. One of the most relevant involves what type of infrastructure will be used to support ongoing operations. While many are interested in employing SaaS (software as a Service) platforms, hosting solutions may represent the more logical choice.

However, e-commerce firms have spent a great deal of time promoting their unique services, leading some business owners to believe that these are the only viable options. While there is certainly nothing wrong with SaaS packages, it is just as prudent to examine what Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) has to offer.

This article will first highlight the fundamental features of IaaS before delving into its inherent advantages and why this alternative could represent the perfect solution for your growing online project.

Hosting Solutions at a Glance: How do They Work?

Perhaps the easiest way to describe this type of hosting involves its cloud-based nature. As opposed to being forced to install software programs and to purchase standalone hardware, Infrastructure as a Service is entirely located within the digital domain. Therefore, relatively few in-house resources are required.

These types of hosting services will provide all the necessities that a business will require, such as:

  • Bespoke data storage solutions.
  • Website bandwidth.
  • Processing power.
  • Networking.

As these are all managed by the vendor in question, businesses can focus on other traditional concerns. This is not always the case with SaaS platforms, as some might be more difficult to work with (particularly if you do not possess a significant amount of experience).

The Cost Benefits of IaaS

Many businesses cite that financial concerns represent the proverbial “bottom line,” so it only stands to reason that the most cost-effective infrastructure is utilized. Many experts will argue that the savings associated with hosting services are their most profound advantage.

Organizations no longer have to be concerned with logistical issues such as hardware maintenance, subscription plans, uptime, and replacing legacy-based systems. This is often a wise choice for smaller firms that might be dealing with minimal budgets. Also, third-party oversight ensures that professionals monitor the “nuts and bolts” of the website in question on a 24/7 basis. Therefore, problems can be rectified as soon as they are detected (saving even more money in the long run).

The Scalable Nature of IaaS

As this article rightfully observes, flexibility is essential in this day and age. IaaS providers have engineered their bundles with this same caveat in mind. If a business needs to upscale (or even downscale) its current operations, these changes can be made with only a minimal amount of effort.

There may also be times when other variables such as a changing market climate, the introduction of a new product, or catering to a novel demographic may require significant changes “behind the scenes.” While SaaS and IaaS can grapple with these situations, IaaS tends to provide more fluid real-time solutions.

All About Customisation

It needs to be mentioned that both SaaS and IaaS represent customizable e-commerce solutions. However, the fully cloud-based nature of hosting services ensures that specificity is even less of a concern. Businesses can personalize their settings to address discrete metrics within a single click.

This ultimately translates to the UX (user experience). Websites can cater to the needs of their audience base, further streamlining the engagement process. The results are higher levels of customer satisfaction and a more appreciable return on investment (ROI).

Security Concerns

A growing number of online vulnerabilities exist in these modern times. Therefore, the notion of security concerning e-commerce should never be taken lightly. Unfortunately, many businesses have not yet developed any plan to thwart these threats.

A recent survey conducted by Verizon found that 54 percent of all small- to medium-sized businesses are concerned about their current security measures. This is once again when IaaS can represent an invaluable asset.

As hosting services are based entirely in the cloud, in-house threats such as theft or device corruption have been all but eliminated. Furthermore, the virtual nature of these systems ensures that they are updated as soon as a security risk emerges. This provides a much more reliable firewall when compared to traditional methods.

Finally, the redundant nature of IaaS guarantees that important data will remain in place in the event of a fire, a flood, or a similarly unforeseen situation. Businesses can thereafter retrieve this information, and clients can remain assured that their details are always safe.

Infrastructure as a Service: A Growing Online Presence

Software as a Service can often be a wise choice, yet this may depend on your organization’s needs. Are you less than satisfied with your current provider? Perhaps you are searching for a more scalable or customizable solution. These are two of the reasons why IaaS could represent a worthwhile consideration. Above all, modern times dictate that equally modern solutions are employed. IaaS may be able to offer the changes that you have been looking for.


Author Bio:

Greg Tuohy is the Managing Director of Docutec, a business printer (mostly multifunction printers) and office automation software provider. Greg was appointed Managing Director in June 2011 and is the driving force behind the team at the Cantec Group. Immediately after completing a science degree at UCC in 1995, Greg joined the family copier/printer business.

Why Choose Hosting (IaaS) Over SaaS

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