Let me first set up the context for this blog.

When I first came across these terms, reading their technical definition did not help me understand what these things are. Hence, I needed some practical explanation of what it is. Although I did not get any, here is how I would explain it in simpler terms.

Note: This just gives you a very brief idea of what it is. It is not explained in depth.

To learn the difference between IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS, let's consider a scenario where you want to deploy a website.

IaaS or Infrastructure as a Service

In this scenario, you opt to buy a server or VM from a cloud service provider and set up a CI/CD pipeline to deploy your website on that server every time there is a change in the code and it is pushed to GitHub. You have full control over the infrastructure, including managing and maintaining servers.

Examples of IaaS providers include AWS, Azure, GCP, and even Raspberry Pi.

PaaS or Platform as a Service

Alternatively, you choose to use a third-party service provider to whom you just give access to your GitHub repository, it takes care of the deployment and provides you a link to the website.

Examples of PaaS providers include Vercel, Hostinger, and GitHub Pages, which offer deployment platforms and tools to simplify the development and deployment process.

SaaS or Software as a Service

In another scenario where you don't have the website code, you hire a third party to develop and host the website for you, providing you with a link to access it.

Examples of SaaS solutions include WordPress and Wix, which provide website-building and hosting services.