Page 28 - Cloud Computing (Elective – III)

What’s included in PaaS?

PaaS includes a variety of features and services. The main offerings included by
the vendors are:

o Development Tools: PaaS vendors offer necessary tools for software
development, including a debugger, a compiler, and other essential tools
that work together as a framework. The specific tools offered will depend
on the vendor, but PaaS offerings include everything a developer needs to
build their application.

o Middleware: Platforms offered as a service include middleware so that
developers do not have to build it by themselves. Middleware is software
that is sandwiched between user applications and the machine’s operating
system. Middleware is necessary for running an application.

o Operating Systems: A PaaS vendor maintains the operating system that
developers work on and the application runs on.

o Database Management: PaaS administer and maintain a database system.
They will usually provide developers with a database management system
as well.

o Infrastructure: PaaS is the next layer up from IaaS and has everything
included in IaaS. A PaaS provider either manages servers, storage or
purchases them from an IaaS provider.

Pros and Cons of PaaS
There are many advantages. Among them, I have listed down a few of those that
are beneficial.

o Simplified Development: Programmers can focus on development and
innovation without worrying about the infrastructure and cloud-computing
tools minimize the time by taking less effort and using smart work using
less code as possible to build the apps.

o Flexibility and Portability: Some PaaS service providers give the user
lots of choices for using multiple platforms, such as PCs, laptops and other
electronic devices in developing apps quicker and make it portable.

o Affordability: PaaS brings affordability for individuals or organizations
to use cloud software of their choice without having to install extra
software or shell out the extra cost in installing and maintaining software.