Infrastructure-as-a-service is a cloud-based computing service model that provides users with virtualized computing resources according to individual needs.
What is Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)?
Infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), also known as Hardware-as-a-service (HaaS), is among the popular cloud infrastructure services that provide users with easy access to IT infrastructure. The IaaS concept is generally associated with serverless computing and is widely considered very flexible among all “as-a-service” models.
In this model, third-party service providers offer end-to-end virtualized computing resources to users according to their needs. This includes technological infrastructure like virtual machines, networking, storage, data servers, and other components that one can find in traditional data centers. End-users (customers) have the option to opt for a variety of plans, including fixed-fee and pay-as-you-go models.
IaaS removes the need for software developers and organizations to maintain and manage their IT infrastructure. Third-party service providers are responsible for the infrastructure’s management, maintenance, and upkeep, empowering developers to focus on building applications without dealing with unnecessary resource allocation and overhead costs.
An increasing number of service providers have started offering IaaS in three distinct cloud-based models: public, private, and hybrid. In this context, private implies that the infrastructure is set up on the customer’s premises. Public means that the infrastructure is located at the service provider’s data center, and hybrid relates to a model where the customer can choose the best features of both private and public clouds.
Why Use Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)?
There are several reasons why organizations and developers opt for the Infrastructure-as-a-Service model. Notably, most IaaS models follow the pay-as-you-go system, meaning you are billed for only the resources you use.
Other advantageous benefits of employing Infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) include:
- Flexibility: IaaS offers a high degree of flexibility, allowing businesses to quickly and easily scale their infrastructure up or down as needed. This means companies can adjust their resources to meet changing demands as and when needed.
- Accessibility: With IaaS, businesses can access their IT infrastructure from anywhere with an internet connection. This feature means companies can manage their infrastructure remotely, which can help to reduce the need for on-premises hardware and equipment.
- Security: Providers of IaaS solutions typically offer robust security features to help protect their customers’ data and infrastructure. These efforts can include aspects like firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection/prevention systems.
- Reliability: IaaS providers offer high uptime and availability, which means businesses can rely on their infrastructure to be available when needed, helping to reduce downtime and improve productivity.