Although you may have heard of Software as a Service (SaaS), it’s not unusual to be unfamiliar with Hardware as a Service (HaaS). Much like SaaS, HaaS allows you to use hardware on a flexible service basis rather than buying it upfront. The hardware you use isn’t your responsibility in terms of maintenance and upkeep, but you get all the perks of using it. If you believe that HaaS may be valuable for your business, it’s time to learn more about what it is.
Similarities with Software as a Service
There’s a chance you’re already using SaaS. If you use programs such as Office 365, you’re a SaaS user. SaaS allows you to use the software on a subscription basis. You can increase and decrease your use in line with your business demands. According to some estimates, the SaaS market will be worth $278 billion by 2021, which is a great demonstration of how popular it is.
Like SaaS, HaaS allows you to use hardware in a flexible way that meets your business needs. You won’t need to pay for the hardware upfront, but you can still enjoy the benefits that come with it. For example, if you use offsite data backup, you’re enjoying the benefits of having an additional harddrive. The company that backs your data up for you is responsible for maintaining the hardware it lives in.
Cloud-based versus on-premises
You can usually group HaaS into two categories: cloud-based and on-premises. Cloud-based HaaS include services such as cloud storage and web hosting. Web hosting is particularly popular, with more than 107 million hosted domains in the United States alone. Although the website belongs to the creator, the server it’s hosted on is taken care of elsewhere.
On-premises services include the use of servers, networking equipment, and hardware. Using on-premises essentials comes with the benefit of ongoing support as well as flexibility.
Going beyond leasing
Although it’s clear that HaaS allows you to avoid paying for the hardware upfront, you may be wondering whether it’s different from leasing. The biggest difference is that HaaS comes with ongoing support. If there’s a problem with your hardware, a support team can help you address it. In contrast, if you have a problem with leased hardware, you may need to send it back to the manufacturer under the terms of your warranty.
Depending on the organization you go to for HaaS, you may have the option of continuing to use the equipment at the end of your agreement. As the hardware is that organization’s asset, you’ll benefit from updates and repairs rather than having to arrange them yourself.
An easier way to scale IT infrastructures
As technology continues to change, hardware grows out of date. Servers and laptops that were once faithful and fast can become sluggish and stressful. When that happens, paying an upfront cost to replace them isn’t always manageable.
HaaS allows you to modernize your IT infrastructure and pay for the equipment you need over the course of its lifetime. In addition to proving useful when your technology is out of date, it’s handy when your business experiences a period of growth.
HaaS has the power to help you transform your business, without spending too much money. You relieve yourself of the responsibility of maintenance and enjoy ongoing support. If it’s a service that interests you, now’s the time to find a company that matches your requirements.
