Commonly confused

IaaS vs SaaS

IaaS gives you building blocks. SaaS gives you the finished application. Shared responsibility shifts with each model.

IaaS

Infrastructure as a Service IaaS provides fundamental computing resources like servers storage and networking over the internet on a pay-as-you-go basis. It offers the highest level of flexibility and management control over your IT infrastructure compared to other cloud service.

IaaS offers fundamental computing resources like servers storage and networking over the internet on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Full PathTerms™ definition

SaaS

SaaS, or Software as a Service, is a software distribution model where a third-party provider hosts applications and makes them available to customers over the internet. Instead of installing and maintaining software on individual devices, users access it through a web browser.

SaaS, or Software as a Service, is a cloud computing model where applications are hosted by a third-party provider and accessed over the internet.

Full PathTerms™ definition

Why it matters

People mix up IaaS and SaaS in exam questions and job posts. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right control, process, or architecture choice.

How to remember the difference

IaaS gives you building blocks. SaaS gives you the finished application. Shared responsibility shifts with each model.

Study both terms