Chapter 5: Hardware and Software

Cloud Computing

A model of computing in which firms and individuals obtain computing resources over the Internet

Software as a Service (SaaS)

• Use software from the cloud

• Bus/Train Analogy: You just enjoy the service provided by the company, you cannot control or design the service

• EX: Google Workspaces, Microsoft 365

Platform as a Service (PaaS)

• Develop software in the cloud platform

• Taxi/Uber Analogy: You do not own the service, but you can use the service to design your own application, just as you can decide the destination of a taxi/uber

• EX: Google App Engine

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

• Use infrastructure in the cloud

• Rent a Car Analogy: You do not own the service, but can still decide how you are going to use the service

• EX: Amazon Web Service, Microsoft Azure

System Software

Operating System, Language Translators, Utility Programs

Application Software

High-Level Programming Languages, Personal Productivity

Language Translators

Convert high-level languages into machine languages Os/Is

Utility Programs

Antivirus, backup, disk cleaner

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Model

Used to analyze direct and indirect costs to help determine the actual cost of owning a specific technology

Direct Costs

Hardware, Software Purchase Costs

Indirect Costs

Ongoing administration costs, upgrades, maintenance, technical support, training, utility, and real estate costs

Hidden Costs

Support staff, downtime, additional network, management