PaaS: what is it?

PaaS means Platform as a service, expression which is translated by “Platform as a service”. This is a cloud computing or IT in cloud (cloud computing, in Quebec): it provides services to developers or development companies throughInternet.

A real service

The supplier makes available to the user:

• the operating system ;
• the programming environment;
• management of data base ;
• the motherboard ;
• the RAM ;
• backup, storage, network connection infrastructure;
• development tools, etc.

The wide range of services.

Saving time and money for the customer

The customer does not need to build, maintain or develop the services and software to which the supplier gives him access. It is enough for developers dial the required code. It is generally compulsory to pay a subscription. We can mention in particular:

• Amazon Web Services (AWS);
• Microsoft Azure;
• IBM Cloud;
• Google Cloud;
• Orange Business services;
• Cloud Foundry (open source).

Some PaaS have been designed according to a profession (law, communication), a sector of activity (advertising, catering, chemistry), of an organization (administration, company).

What is PaaS used for?

Supervision of infrastructure, specific services (Linux for example) and customer resources, management of backups, operating system etc. The functions of PaaS are multiple.

They can be broadly classified into two parts, increased efficiency and gain inmoney :

Lower costs

You do not need to invest in the equipment and personnel required by the services provided to you. The price differential is all the more important as the services to which you have access are sophisticated, the costs of software licenses are lower; management costs applications (updates, fixes, etc.) are reduced. Lower costs are an undeniable advantage for companies.

Increased efficiency

• Access to a wide range of resources: development tools, operating systems, databases, etc.
• Opportunity to develop creativity: PaaS allows you to experiment with a range of new languages ​​and new tools;
• Better cooperation of development teams;
• Development teams can collaborate from anywhere using Internet collaboration;
• Get your products to market quickly – get the software you need right away.

Among other things, they allow you to determine patterns of behavior and find business information. Business leaders and administrations are thus increasing their activities.

How does PaaS work?

The operation of PaaS is very simple. It generally consists of three parts which are directly accessible. The online graphical interface plays a major role in providing the tools.

• infrastructure cloud : storage, firewalls, operating systems, virtual machines;
• application management and development software;
• the graphical interface which plays an essential role since it provides the tools that the customer needs.

The customer can use the pre-coded components that are part of the platform such as security, search, directory functions, workflow, etc.

The amount of your subscription naturally depends on your needs and the services you use; you lighten the tasks of your developers.