Service models of cloud computing
Depending on the IT resources provided, a distinction is made in cloud computing between different service models, which are also used at the University of Vienna.
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
This service model is also called software-on-demand and provides users with applications that are operated on a cloud infrastructure.
With u:cloud, the ZID provides software that is hosted and operated on virtual university infrastructure. It offers an interface for accessing the storage system and employees also have 50 GB of storage space in the "cloud". The MS Teams video conferencing software provided for employees who work from home is also a software-on-demand product. The data is stored on Microsoft servers located in the European Union.
Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)
The IaaS model provides users with storage, computing or network resources. Cloud storage is probably the best-known form of this service model due to its widespread use, especially in the private sector. Commercial providers often make storage space for data available free of charge. Devices can connect to the server via a network and users can read, edit, synchronise, share and back up the data stored there.
The ZID services in this area include virtual server housing and central backup.
Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS)
The PaaS model offers users a platform for developing and offering their own software applications by providing flexible programming and development environments.
Currently, the ZID is working on a new container model for the web space and personal website service for members of the University of Vienna, which makes it possible to install individual software (extensions) with a click.