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An Understanding of Hardware as a Service (HaaS)

IT Office

Hardware as a Service (Haas) is basically the transparent integration of remote hardware geographically distributed in a given area into one operating system. It is used in managed services or grid computing, where there is a central computing center that leases computing power from a service provider rather than purchasing their own tech assets. HaaS has undergone a number of transformations since the invention of computers in the late 1960s. The Internet bubble has greatly contributed to improving how HaaS functions when it comes to providing managed services and grid computing hence the development of cloud computing.

Simply put; HaaS seeks to get rid of computer products or components that may fast become obsolete, by renting out assets to givens firm or subscribers. For example, if a cable provider replaces a customer’s outdated decoder with a new one, they are basically saving them from the expense of having to purchase a new one all by themself. That it is what HaaS entails.

HaaS seeks to fulfill the following missions in management

  • Be involved in the maintenance and administration of hardware in a given environment, whether remote or on-site, depending on the installation requirements of the hardware.
  • Enable users to be empowered in managing the licensing requirements that come with a given hardware.

When in computing environments, HaaS users are required to use a form of connection, usually Internet Protocols, popularly known as IP connections. Through this, they can use the computing power of remote hardware to get the desired results. Such an arrangement allows users to outsource computing power from a third party company, rather than utilize their on-site hardware, that may turn out to be more expensive.

HaaS allows users to use distinct hardware components, connected analogously through the Internet in order to offer cloud services. This tends to appear as if the hardware devices are connected locally, hence improving their functionality. The two major types of HaaS are;

  • Cloud-based HaaS- This is where customers use pay-as-you-use servers in the sky also known as cloud computing. The most common service under this category is website hosting, replacing virtual hosting that allowed multiple customers to use the same installation.
  • On-Premise HaaS- This is the leasing of IT components for normal office use for example business servers, computer hardware and networking equipment. This is vital and help customers who need to have data backup and support network hence renting the IT equipment.

General Implications of HaaS

With HaaS, users can have their favorite host set them up with a new server in less than 2 days. Some hosts can provide a fully automated sever set up in less than an hour. Subscribers can also cancel their subscriptions anytime. All this is possible thanks to the use of visualization and deployment scripts used in HaaS.

To begin with, HaaS saves subscribers from the ever rising cost of system and components upgrade. With HaaS, the servers need to be functioning properly in order to handle tasks. Systems are automatically updated through network upgrades, making them compatible with software. Through this, businesses enjoy upgrades for all their IT services; apps, software and hardware in a flat-fee service.

Secondly, with HaaS, businesses pay for all their IT infrastructure in just one check. In addition, customers need not to purchase hardware as much of the hardware is catered for by their providers. Through this, customers are able to make use of the tax advantage, capitalizing on the funds that could have otherwise been used in buying IT assets as operational expense.

Thirdly, HaaS entails the use of proactive service model in order to satisfy its customers. Most providers struggle to deliver a high level of service providing the most desired reliability. Business need not to worry about warranties, system crashes or equipment failure thanks to the online support offered by providers.

Fourthly, updates from a HaaS provider will ensure that your business security is better. Network security requires both software and hardware upgrade, hence improving security in the long run. Moreover, upgrading your IT components will provide room for better disaster recovery plan when need arises.

Last but not least, there is the factor of scalability. As your business grows, so do your IT needs. HaaS can be scaled even if the opposite happens, enabling customers get rid of unwanted components of their IT system from the firm.

Consequences of HaaS

First, in case of a downtime, the business is most likely going to lose clients. While no service provider may admit this, none of them is immune to service outages. This is because, most of this systems are dependent on the Internet, which can fail at any time. Downtime will mean that all your business applications will drop offline delay operations in the long run.

Moreover, there is the issue of security and privacy breaches. If HaaS uses a remote cloud based infrastructure in a certain firm, this means that all its IT services have been outsourced. However, safeguarding the IT system is basically the work of business owner in this scenario. Reinforce your data’s security by knowing who is supposed to access each resource and service. You can also incorporate intelligence to network protection.

HaaS can also be pricey for small firms or in short term projects. Although it may save business owners from expensive hardware costs, the owner will in the long run end up paying higher leasing fees that what they could expect. Businesses may pay a monthly subscription for the hardware itself or choose a package that includes installation, monitoring and maintenance. However, owners could counter this by putting measures to control waste such as Cloud Sprawl and setting up of smart alerts.

All in all, HaaS is vital in business as it saves owners from being stung by capital expenses. With the world changing most of its analogue processes, HaaS is already setting a fair ground when it comes with connecting to connecting clients to the most efficient digital processes in the world, for example Cloud computing. HaaS is customizable, hence accommodating the technology needs of many clients, hence solving headaches such as security and obsolescence of computer components.

Garrett Parker

Written by Garrett Parker

Garrett by trade is a personal finance freelance writer and journalist. With over 10 years experience he's covered businesses, CEOs, and investments. However he does like to take on other topics involving some of his personal interests like automobiles, future technologies, and anything else that could change the world.

Read more posts by Garrett Parker

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