(1) Short for
Software as a Service, SaaS is a
software delivery method that provides access
to software and its functions remotely as a Web-based service. SaaS allows
organizations to access business functionality at a cost typically less than
paying for licensed
applications since
SaaS pricing is based on a monthly fee. Also, because the software is hosted remotely, users don't need to invest in additional
hardware. SaaS removes the need for organizations to
handle the installation, set-up and often daily upkeep and maintenance. Software
as a Service may also be referred to as simply
hosted applications.
See related term
ASP.
(2) Short for Storage as a Service, SaaS is a term used to describe a
storage
model where a business or organization (the client) rents or leases storage
space from a third-party provider. Data is transferred from the client to the
service provider via the Internet and the client would then access their stored
data using software provided by the storage provider. The software is used to
perform common tasks related to storage, such as data backups and data
transfers. Storage as a Service is popular with SMBs because there are usually
no start-up costs (e.g., servers, hard disks, IT staff and so on) involved.
Businesses pay for the service based only on the amount of storage space used.
Storage as a Service may also be called hosted storage. See related term
Storage Service Provider.
See also "Cost-Cutting
Storage Strategies for Small Businesses" on
SmallBusinessComputing.com.
