Cloud 101: Using Apps in the Cloud March 22, 2024 – Posted in: Cloud Computing, IT Support – Tags: cloud 101, ITServices, ITSupport, saas, SmallBusiness, software-as-a-service, what is cloud

Software is increasingly being made to be accessed via the cloud rather than downloaded locally. This allows the app provider to build an environment specifically designed to run their solution. That way they don’t have to try to account for the myriad of ways people set up their personal devices or business servers when developing software. They can also avoid having to support issues that may be caused by the user’s environment.

For you this means you get the additional stability of a system run in a dedicated environment. As long as you have an internet connection and your login details you can access your apps from anywhere on any device. You don’t have to worry about maintaining hardware or complex installs, and your data may be backed up by the app provider.

Types of Cloud Solution

Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)

The most common type of cloud solution is known as SaaS. You’re probably using some sort of SaaS solution already. It simply means that instead of or as well as installing an app on your PC, you access some or all of the functionality of the software online. It usually means that you don’t buy a single license and install the software on one PC for all users. Instead you buy a monthly subscription for each user and they get to access the software through a browser or install it on multiple devices. This is a better deal for many businesses these days as it is unusual for multiple users to be on one device. Many will have multiple devices – desktops, laptops, tablets and phones all count. Your subscription pays for the software provider to keep your data on their servers. They’ll handle all the hardware and software maintenance, antivirus, local networking and updates. It’s important to find out whether they’ll also provide backups for your data, or if you’ll need to sort out disaster recovery separately.

Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS)

PaaS is a cloud space where you are responsible for the apps, either installing or building them yourself. The supplier provides the hardware, local networking and operating system. It’s important you review any agreements to make sure you’re clear on who is responsible for backup, antivirus and updates to the OS. You’ll definitely be responsible for updates to your software. This setup is often used by businesses who want to build their own apps, either as a core part of their business or for internal use. It’s usually set up to allow you to build customer facing apps.

Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)

IaaS gives you the most control and the most responsibility. You essentially hire space and processing power in someone else’s data centre. There will be some level of interface installed to allow you to connect to the space and start building your environment. You’ll be responsible for installing, updating and maintaining your operating systems and all software including antivirus. You’ll need to establish whether a provider’s offering includes any kind of backup solutions or firewalls. They will often provide some very basic options to protect their datacentre, but you will likely need to install a more in-depth solution.

KEY QUESTIONS TO ASK A SUPPLIER

User support is a key area where contracts will differ. There’s a difference between break-fix (fixing a problem or bug in the app) and user support which may, or may not, include training or remediation of mistakes. If you’re buying a subscription service find out what level of user support is available before making a decision. Another point where contracts will vary is backup and disaster recovery. Talk to any potential suppliers about what they will be backing up and what they will expect you to have copies of, as well as what their disaster recovery plan is.

Whether any, or all cloud services are right for your business will depend on your needs. If you’d like help reviewing the options available and the likely costs of each option give us a call on 01245 265 100 or email .