PaaS (Platform as a Service) are cloud services that allow business users and developers to develop applications. These cloud services can also significantly reduce costs and simplify some challenges that arise when quickly developing an app. Because PaaS is a cloud-based service, you don't have to worry about setting up servers, updates, upgrades, and patches. All servers, storage, and networks can be managed by the company or an external provider, while developers can retain control of the applications. PaaS also provides a number of services, such as design tools and many APIs, aimed at creating user-friendly applications.
PaaS is similar to SaaS, except instead of delivering software over the internet, PaaS offers a platform for creating software. This platform is delivered via the web, giving developers the freedom to focus on building the software without worrying about operating systems, software updates, storage, or infrastructure. With PaaS, companies can design and create applications with software components built into the PaaS. These applications, also known as middleware, are scalable and highly available because they adopt certain cloud characteristics.