Azure, Microsoft’s cloud computing offers a range of cloud service models, including Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). These service models provide different levels of control, management, and responsibility for organizations depending on their specific needs and requirements. Here’s an overview of each:

1. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS):

   • IaaS is a cloud service model that provides virtualized computing resources over the internet. It allows organizations to rent virtual machines, storage, and networking infrastructure from a cloud provider like Azure.
   • In Azure IaaS, you have more control over the underlying operating system, applications, and configurations compared to PaaS and SaaS.
   • Use cases include running virtual servers, hosting applications, and managing network resources in the cloud.
   • Common Azure IaaS services include Azure Virtual Machines (VMs), Azure Virtual Networks, and Azure Disk Storage.

2. Platform as a Service (PaaS):

   • PaaS is a cloud service model that abstracts the underlying infrastructure, allowing developers to focus on building and deploying applications without worrying about managing servers and hardware.
   • Azure PaaS offerings provide a platform for developing, deploying, and managing applications. They often include built-in development tools, databases, and scalability features.
   • Use cases include web application hosting, database management, and application development.
   • Common Azure PaaS services include Azure App Service, Azure SQL Database, and Azure Functions.

3. Software as a Service (SaaS):

   • SaaS is a cloud service model where cloud providers deliver software applications over the internet on a subscription basis. Users access these applications through web browsers.
   • In Azure, SaaS offerings are typically third-party applications or services hosted on the platform. Microsoft also offers SaaS applications like Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365).
   • Use cases include email services, collaboration tools, and productivity software.
   • Common Azure SaaS offerings include Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365, and Azure Marketplace applications.

To summarize:

• IaaS provides the most control and flexibility over the underlying infrastructure and is suitable for organizations that want to manage virtualized resources and servers.

• PaaS abstracts infrastructure management, making it easier for developers to build and deploy applications. It is suitable for application development and deployment scenarios.

• SaaS delivers fully hosted software applications and services, making them accessible to users without any infrastructure or application management responsibilities.