SaaS (Software as a Service) - simply explained

The Software as a Service, or SaaS for short, has become increasingly popular in recent years. In this practical tip, we explain what SaaS actually is and the advantages and disadvantages of the model.

Software as a Service: What is SaaS?

• Software as a Service is a model for selling software. The software is no longer sold directly to customers as a download or CD, but instead is offered as an online service.
• The customer no longer installs the software directly on their own PC, but uses the software in the browser. The software is no longer a software in the classic sense, but rather a service.
• One of the best-known SaaS models is Office 365. For a long time, Microsoft only sold Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Co. as standalone software. You can now use all programs directly in the browser via Office 365. It is not necessary to install the software for this.
• Not only the software, but also the IT infrastructure is with the provider. The user's PC is only used to display the software, the computing power for operating the software comes from the provider.
• Software as a service has become increasingly popular in recent years. SaaS is a component of cloud computing, which is also being used more and more.

Advantages and disadvantages of SaaS

You usually always need an internet connection to access it. If there is no internet, then the software is also gone.

• Since software licenses are often expensive and the software version changes after a few years, companies with Saas models in particular save money. The classic software is usually cheaper for private individuals, especially if it is not absolutely necessary to switch to the latest version.
• If you use software as a service, you will automatically receive the latest updates and functions. The SaaS provider updates the software itself, the user does not have to install the updates himself.
• Since the software is no longer installed on the PC, you can access the service from anywhere. You can also access the software from other computers or smartphones.
• The demands on your own PC also decrease. Since the programs are operated on the provider's servers, the user only needs a browser that displays the program. Especially in the case of computationally intensive programs, the user no longer needs expensive hardware so that the software runs quickly.
• The biggest shortcoming of SaaS is the connection to the Internet and the server of the provider. If the Internet does not work, you can no longer access the software. In addition, the personal files and documents used in the software are often on the provider's servers and not shielded on your own computer.