This allows the client to use the software whenever and wherever they need for the length of the contract. The license can be for individual or group use. SaaS is often used for billing, invoicing, human resource management, service desk management and sales management.

Given the areas in which SaaS is mainly utilized, security issues could cause massive disruption and problems within an organization. There are two primary categories of security threats involved in SaaS systems. These two security categories include:

• Unauthorized access
• Physical peril

Unauthorized access is an extraordinarily high data risk. Due to the specific nature of SaaS; the storage of data on a remote server, the risk of unauthorized access greatly increases. When data is transferred over the internet or on a remote server, hackers have the ability to capture passwords, view data and make modifications.

Of course this is an issue with any type of remote access, but when billing information, invoices and human resource information is transferred, this information is more harmful and appealing to hackers. In many cases, the information is intercepted in stealth mode which means the company has no idea it even happened.

The second security threat category is physical peril. This occurs when data is physically destroyed. Destruction can occur from floods, fires, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. Although most servers have backups, there’s always a chance data can be unrecoverable. Again by accessing information remotely, it’s putting the data in the trust of another company.

These potential security issues seem threatening at first and are common on all servers that require remote access. Both businesses and individuals must be concerned with these issues when using most other types of hosting. Unfortunately due to the primary use of SaaS, more vital information is being sent and hosted by these applications making it  more dangerous for businesses.

There are network security features in place to prevent unauthorized access and backup server locations in case of a natural disaster. However, these potential security threats should play a large role in the decision to use SaaS for additional applications.

Related posts:

• November 4, 2009 – Introduction to SaaS Hosting
• September 9, 2011 – Several Security Risks and How to Avoid Them
• August 23, 2011 – The Newest Way to build eCommerce Solutions
• February 26, 2010 – PHP and Common Web Hosting Security Issues
• December 15, 2009 – The Top 3 Web Hosting Security Issues
• August 25, 2009 – Layer Technologies Breaks Through on Inc. 5000
• June 4, 2009 – Mezeo Takes Part in Cloud Storage Gathering
• May 13, 2009 – Intermedia.NET Unleashes New Exchange Solutions

What is SaaS?

Software-as-a-Service or SaaS, is a revolutionary delivery model that is changing the way software providers market and sell their products.  While many vendors are familiar with the concept of hosting applications and serving them via the web, few truly understand the elements that are required to successfully implement and offer quality SaaS services.

The Importance of the SaaS Hosting Provider

The SaaS hosting provider is the key to obtaining a hosted application structure that meets your specific needs.  A quality host is a firm that has the knowledge and technology to run a standard global infrastructure along with an extensive set of development capabilities and cloud platforms to ensure the fast, affordable and reliable deployment of your applications.  They will also provide top-notch consultative services to aid in the positive growth and success of your solution.  As with any type of hosted IT service, the provider you choose can either make or break your experience.

When and How to find a Reputable Provider?

So, how do you know if you require SaaS hosting?  Better yet, how do you go about finding a reliable service?  We will conclude this article by providing some information to help you decide when it is time to hand your application needs over to an outsourced company and also how to find the best SaaS hosting solution for your specific requirements.

Cloud computing has made it easier and more affordable than ever to develop, distribute and manage software applications.  However, vendors who want to implement this model need to make it a priority to build a delivery model capable of meeting the availability requirements of their customers while ensuring a highest level of security.  This is the only way customers can obtain a solution that provides the reliable, enterprise-class infrastructure needed to support their hosted application needs.  To meet this demand, many software vendors and individuals turn to SaaS hosting.

When looking for an SaaS hosting provider to distribute and maintain your applications, make sure the firm has a solid reputation in the industry for successfully running an SaaS hosted service.  You also need to ascertain that the company is able to satisfy your unique requirements.  This goes for planning, capacity, compliance and the seamless incorporation of any technologies your hosted applications may be require in the future.  To put it simple, SaaS should be something the hosting provider specializes in, not just an offering packaged beside their other products to capitalize on the cloud computing phenomenon.  Combine this with top-notch support, and you have yourself a winning solution.

Related posts:

• May 9, 2010 – Potential Security Issues with SaaS
• December 19, 2011 – Cloud Backup & Online Storage Services
• November 19, 2011 – The Future of Cloud Computing – Where it’s Going, and What it Means for You
• October 29, 2011 – Future Uses and Growth of Cloud Computing
• October 14, 2011 – How the Kindle Fire is a Catch-all Reflection of Current Web Trends
• September 2, 2011 – Saving Money and Increasing Sales with the Cloud
• August 31, 2011 – Top 5 Cloud Storage Service Providers
• August 23, 2011 – The Newest Way to build eCommerce Solutions
• July 13, 2011 – A Bundle of Content Management System, Cloud Computing and eCommerce
• April 18, 2011 – Newest Member of the Cloud Security Alliance