Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is one of the type common types of cloud computing services. The other common services in the cloud computing model are Software as a Service (SaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS). IaaS refers specifically to the delivery of infrastructure, including hardware and software, in the cloud—usually via the internet. Some common examples of IaaS offerings include servers, network connections, IP addresses, and virtual computers, among other things. Instead of housing this equipment, a business might choose to purchase this service from an IaaS provider. IaaS providers are responsible for housing and maintaining these physical resources in data centers, which the client is given access to for a fee.
As with other cloud hosting, IaaS may be used to help enterprises create IT platforms of their own, without having to invest in the resources themselves. This is advantageous for several reasons. Firstly, the enterprise gains in scalability, meaning that if a changing workload warrants more or less hardware or equipment, they have access to it. The enterprise doesn’t have to have the equipment on-site and can instead purchase the amount that they need according to fluctuating demands. By outsourcing to the cloud provider, they can quickly and easily expand rather than purchasing, installing, and integrating the equipment they need themselves. Moreover, there is no delay required to expand when additional hardware is needed. Downsizing or de-scaling equipment needs is also made simpler.
Of course, IaaS can also be beneficial to enterprises for other reasons. These include:
- Less investment. Though IaaS does cost money, there is no need to invest in the physical hardware. In addition, maintenance and upkeep costs are taken care of by the provider.
- Utility-style pricing. The client pays only for the required infrastructure, which is accessed on demand. There is no need to pay for hardware that isn’t used.
- Location independence. Cloud IaaS allows clients to access this service from anywhere, provided they have an internet connection. While some security protocols require users to access the service from a single location, there is otherwise the opportunity to access the service remotely.
- Data is physically secure. There is added physical security, as services are housed in a data center. This applies to both public cloud and private clouds hosted with cloud providers.
- No single point of failure. The provider has enough resources to ensure that if a server or network fails, the whole system doesn’t shut down. In many cases, having an entire data center shut down or go offline wouldn’t even affect the delivery of the IaaS service.
In summary, IaaS is an ideal option for businesses with fluctuating or uncertain workloads. It is also ideal for businesses that are undergoing rapid expansion and can’t keep up with the pace of growth. In addition, since resources are effectively pooled, it’s more cost-effective. Enterprises indicate that the savings on cost is one of the most attractive advantages of this service, taking the responsibility of hardware maintenance and upkeep away from the enterprise. Finally, IaaS also ensures the highest possible level of security.