Server Rentals in the Clouds and On the Ground
Server rentals used to mean renting an actual file server for temporary use. While physical server rentals still exist – and serve many purposes – the term itself is now often used in the context of cloud computing. You’ve probably heard of cloud computing. But what is it exactly? Read on to find out more.
Cloud Computing, Server Space and SaaS
Cloud computing can include server rentals (or, more specifically, the rental of space on servers), but it can also include software. That is why it is often confused with another industry buzzword – SaaS. SaaS stands for "Software as a Service". Some experts will tell you that cloud computing and SaaS are the same, but many will tell you there are subtle differences. As often as not, the discussions as to whether these two services are the same get bogged down in highly technical arguments that use far too many acronyms.
Before we look at whether clouds and SaaS are different, let’s talk about what cloud computing is. A clear definition is hard to find, but one was included in an April, 2009 article in the Minneapolis Star–Tribune. The article states that:
"Cloud computing refers to a distribution–and–pricing model in which companies — large corporations and start–ups alike — can purchase services such as software, bandwidth, server space and Web applications over the Internet on an on–demand basis. For example, a retailer needing a little extra computing power during holiday shopping season can rent out additional server space from “clouds” like Amazon Web Services just for that period."
And SaaS? PC Magazine defines it as software "that is rented rather than purchased. Instead of buying software and paying for periodic upgrades, SaaS is subscription based, and all upgrades are provided during the term of the subscription. When the subscription period expires, the software is no longer valid."
So, are SaaS and cloud computing the same thing? Not entirely. One of the clearest explanations of how they differ is found in India’s Express Computer. The editor notes that cloud computing services sit on a cloud on a third–party server, ready to be used when clients need them. SaaS, on the other hand, is more "application–centric"; a way for companies to sell access to their hosted applications. Salesforce.com is one example.
In other words, clouds give you the space and you determine how to use it. SaaS gives you an application with specific uses without requiring a purchase and licensing fee.
Cloud Computing to Grow
Most industry experts expect cloud computing to grow. According to the Minneapolis Star–Tribune, Gartner and IDC – leading market research firms – expect global spending on cloud computing to at least triple by 2012.
For those businesses that want their server space to be a little more grounded, server rentals or leases can provide all the required space and power without the capital outlay for a new server, and with more security and control than cloud computing now offers.
If you own a business and have concerns about server space, you can look at the clouds but you should consider the more down–to–earth options as well.
Call 1–800–827–0352 for international server rentals or fill out our Flexquote to get your quote in one hour.
