SaaS (Software as a Service)

SaaS (Software as a Service) is a model where you use an application over the internet, usually on a subscription, instead of buying and installing it on your computer. The provider hosts the program on its servers and takes care of maintenance, security and updates; you simply access it from a browser or an app. Everyday examples are Gmail, Microsoft 365, Slack or Salesforce. Its advantages are convenience, access from any device and not having to manage infrastructure; in return, you depend on the provider and the connection, and your data lives on their servers. It is the most widespread of the three big categories of cloud services, alongside PaaS and IaaS.