Cloud vendors love acronyms. Owners just want to know what they are buying and who looks after it. This guide translates the main cloud models and explains how Azure managed services take day to day work off your plate.
The three cloud models
Software as a service (SaaS)
You rent a finished application, such as Microsoft 365. The provider runs everything behind it. You manage users, settings and data. A Microsoft 365 migration is a typical first step.
Platform as a service (PaaS)
You build or run your own application on a managed platform, such as a database service. You do not manage servers. It suits custom applications.
Infrastructure as a service (IaaS)
You rent virtual servers, storage and networks. You manage the operating system, applications and security. This suits moving existing servers to Azure.
| Model | You manage | Provider manages | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| SaaS | Users, data | Everything else | Microsoft 365 |
| PaaS | Application, data | Servers, platform | Managed database |
| IaaS | OS, apps, data | Hardware, datacentre | Azure virtual machines |
Public, private and hybrid
Public cloud shares infrastructure among customers, and private cloud is dedicated to one organisation. Most small businesses use public cloud with strong security, and many adopt hybrid cloud, keeping some systems on site.
What managed services add
Buying Azure does not mean it manages itself. Without care, environments drift: patches fall behind, costs creep up and alerts go unseen. A managed service typically includes:
- Monitoring of servers, applications and costs
- Patching and updates
- Security management and review of configuration
- Azure backup and recovery testing
- Azure cost optimization, with regular right sizing
- Support with defined response times
- Reporting and planning
Choosing what to manage yourself
If you have skilled staff, you may keep some tasks in house and use a provider for specialist work or after hours. Others hand over everything. Ask for clear division of responsibility in writing. Our cloud services Toronto team offers both.
Questions to ask
- Who is responsible for security and backup?
- What are response times?
- How do you report on cost and performance?
- What happens if we leave?
For more, see how to choose a cloud provider and our Microsoft Azure page.
We manage your Azure environment for security, cost and performance.
Explore Microsoft AzureFrequently asked questions
Is Azure managed services only for large companies?
No. It suits small teams without a dedicated cloud engineer.
Does a managed service lock me in?
Good providers use standard tools and keep your environment in your own subscription.
What does it cost?
Typically a monthly fee based on the size and complexity of the environment.
Related service: Cloud Services
Last updated
