SaaS can be defined as a software that is owned and managed by one or more providers. A SaaS providers delivers the software on the basis of a set of common code and data definitions. In simple words, SaaS is a software that is leased and maintained by its creator on the basis of the metrics. SaaS is a key component of the cloud computing technology. Cloud service provider takes the responsibility of installing, operating and maintaining the respective type of software application on the company’s behalf.
In the earlier times, people used to purchase the software and load it into a device. However, with the implementation of SaaS, people can subscribe for the SaaS software, the software is based in the cloud and it can be accessed from anywhere through internet. SaaS ensures numerous benefits to individuals and to the business organizations as well.
For the business entities, SaaS eliminates the need of installing and running the applications on their own computers. As a result of this, the cost of hardware acquisition, provisioning and maintenance, installation and support is reduced.
There are many popular examples of SaaS that include Google Apps, Office 365, Citrix, Salesforce, Netflix, Cisco WebEx etc.