Software as a Service (SaaS) is a software distribution model which a cloud provider hosts applications and makes them available to end users over the internet. This is usually provided through a subscription payment model.
With the rise in people working from home, SaaS has created a simple and flexible way for companies to accommodate this change.
Advantages of SaaS
Accessibility
It doesn’t matter where you are working from or on what device, you will be able to access applications and software that are in the cloud. This creates flexibility as users can work on different devices and across different operating systems without work being lost.
Updates
The SaaS provider will provide updates and patches for the application on an ongoing basis.
Cost savings
Companies will usually see a cost saving moving to SaaS from traditional programs that require downloads and installs. The business only pays a subscription cost while the application developer looks after the servers and infrastructure which powers the application.
Scalability
Scaling up or down is simple when using SaaS. You can easily add or remove data storage space, computing power or licenses when you require.
Saving and data storage
You don’t have to worry about saving information as data is routinely saved to the cloud, meaning you can switch between devices and not lose your work. It also eliminates the need for businesses to have their own servers for storage purposes.
Disadvantages of SaaS
Need for stronger access controls
With everything being based on the Cloud, verifying user identity and controlling access levels becomes extremely important. If someone has credentials for an account, they will gain access. Added layers of security such as two factor authentication (2FA) is often used.
Vendor lock in
With SaaS, all information and databases are moved to the Cloud and into the servers of the application developer, making it sometimes difficult or time consuming to move vendors.
Security and compliance
This applies more in corporate settings, affecting larger companies. Tight securities and regulation standards can cause problems as SaaS can make organizations more open to cyberthreats. IT departments need to be sure they have done vulnerability analysis on each SaaS application they have and that security standards around each are compliant.
