What Is Cloud Computing and How Do Businesses Use It?

In any business, getting started on a new project requires a big investment. Let’s say you want to start a home bakery. In addition to being a good baker and having recipes that people will like, you’ll also need a lot of tools to run the actual business. You’ll need extra fridges, freezers, stand mixers, and probably ovens. The costs add up quickly, and you haven’t even started baking.

For startup app developers, investing in tools can drain already limited resources. Instead of building apps, you’re stuck doing other things, like maintaining your data and providing security. This is where cloud computing can make things much easier. Learn what cloud computing is and how businesses use it for app development.

On-Premises vs. Cloud Computing

With on-premises computing, you’re responsible for everything. You’ll need physical servers to hold all your data and the infrastructure to configure that data. You’re in charge of your own security, both physically, with security cameras and door locks, and digitally with firewalls.

With cloud computing, you don’t have to take on all those different responsibilities, just some of them. The three main types of cloud usage allow for different levels of control.

Software as a Service (SaaS)

With SaaS, you don’t have to do anything except use the tools you need. In real estate, it’s similar to renting a fully-furnished apartment. You don’t have to buy furniture, handle security, or even be there to accept your own deliveries. You use the apartment, and that’s it. Examples of SaaS include Dropbox, Google Workspace, and Slack.

Platform as a Service (PaaS)

PaaS allows businesses to take on a little more control, enough that they can create new things themselves. Microsoft Azure, Google App Engine, and other app development platforms are good examples of PaaS. Continuing the renting metaphor, with PaaS you’re renting out a creative space. There are tools for you to use so you don’t have to buy them yourself, but you’ll need to bring your own raw materials and creativity to work with.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

IaaS offers the most control of the three cloud service systems. Using the renting metaphor, it’s more like renting out an empty warehouse. The building is there, but you have to fill it, staff it, and make it secure on your own. Taking near-complete control may sound daunting, but one thing you can do is use a service that allows for cloud scaling. The advantage of using a service like Oracle is that you can upgrade to more or less control to suit your needs.

Now that you know what cloud computing is and how businesses use it, you can decide which type of cloud computing is best for you. That means more time creating apps and less time managing data.