Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS)

Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) is a cloud service model that provides developers with managed runtimes, middleware, and platform tools to build and operate applications without managing underlying infrastructure. It streamlines deployment, scaling and continuous delivery, while introducing abstraction, provider lock-in and additional operational responsibiliti…

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Content type

Concept

Theoretical construct: explains a term, principle, or mental model.

Classification level

Foundation

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In brief

Platform as a service in brief

Platform as a service (PaaS) is a cloud model in which a provider supplies a managed runtime and development platform while customers remain responsible for their applications and data.

Where does it come from?

PaaS emerged as a cloud abstraction between infrastructure and software as a service: providers take on more runtime and platform operations so teams can deploy applications without managing servers. NIST classifies PaaS as a cloud service model in SP 800-145.

The mental model

You deliver application code and configuration to a prepared stage. The provider runs much behind the curtain—operating system, runtime, or scaling—while your application, data, and use remain your responsibility.

Key building blocks

Responsibility boundary

The provider operates platform components; the customer manages the application and data within the agreement.

Managed runtime

Code runs in a provider-maintained environment with standardized services.

Portability

Dependencies on APIs, runtime, and operating model affect the ability to move platforms.

When is it useful?

PaaS speeds delivery and reduces infrastructure work. Teams must assess provider boundaries, cost, data access, compliance, and lock-in.

NIST SP 800-145 – The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing

Why is this building block relevant?

PaaS is a cloud service model that provides managed runtimes, middleware, and platform tools so developers can build and run applications without managing infrastructure.