Application hosting services and advantages

A hosted application is defined as a software as a service solution that allows users to execute and operate a software application entirely from the cloud or internet on a recurring subscription. Application hosting provides different applications for user requirement. 

Hosted applications are hosted and administered from the remote cloud infrastructure and are accessed globally through the Internet. They provide the same service and functionality as locally installed software but it can be updated more easily.

Hosted applications are also called as Internet-based applications. These are also called as Web applications and online applications. However these terms often have a larger scope.

Hosted applications are in the category of the pioneer service model of cloud services, which allows users to receive a similar application functionality experience through Web browsers as they do with desktop applications. Hosted applications are installed easily as compared to conventional software.

This is due to the reason that they require no upfront installation and have minimal integration requirements. They are designed to be accessed through Web browsers and operating systems. So they pose a low risk of local system corruption. 

Hosted applications are being managed by the service provider. These are updated and patched regularly with the most stable version. It is backed by continual technical and customer support. Most hosted application offerings don’t require a client-end installation yet some require a thin client application which needs to be installed at a local workstation for accessing the remote application.

Advantage of hosting applications: 

o  Lower TCO – The main selling factor for software as a service is its lower costs. Users need not have to buy any dedicated servers, backup systems, security infrastructure or storage media and worry about upgrades and about hiring experienced IT professional. Software as a service (SAAS) software is a great example of the huge impact on the way businesses are run.

o Faster deployment – Some systems are difficult to install. Installation, configuration and deployment of client software on the user’s PC are very time consuming and expensive activities and these require special technical skills.o  Lower risks – The initial cost of starting a hosted project is much less as compared to locally installed software. In the case of failure of a project, the financial damages are limited, and a decision to rollback or switch over different software is easy. The investment made in a hosted system is minimal.