The cloud can be a difficult concept to wrap your head around. What exactly is the Cloud? When are you using it? Where is it found? Sure, the cloud is useful for backing up files and accessing globally distributed software, but how does one pin down those nebulous definitions? To make matters worse, terms like “PaaS” and “SaaS” have popped up recently, further mystifying peoples’ already foggy understanding.

Fortunately we’ve put together a simple infographic breaking down the three layers of cloud computing ­ PaaS, IaaS and SaaS ­ by explaining just what each one does and how it contributes to cloud computing as a whole. From providing core computer infrastructure like operating systems and file storage at a global level, to consumer-facing software users can download or access through their web browser, these three layers encompass pretty much everything about the cloud...

Software as a Service (SaaS): Free or subscription-based services that users can access through their web browser or downloadable software, like Office 365 or Google Drive.

Platform as a Service (PaaS): Cloud-based platforms for deploying software and services. Force.com and Heroku are good examples.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Physical and virtual computer hardware delivered via the cloud, such as Windows Azure.

Silver Lining’s own cloud offerings also fit comfortably into these categories; our Hosted Desktop platform for example fills both the role of software for end-users to access via their devices, and that of a cloud-based platform from which to deploy applications or build further infrastructure.

We’ve previously delved into cloud computing infographics before ­ if you’re interested, be sure to check out our collection of interesting stats about the cloud, our cloud journey, and our observations on mobile app development in the cloud. We’ve also written some insightful blog articles that break down cloud computing at its most basic level, and discuss what it could do for you and your business.