Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) delivers virtualised computing resources—such as servers, storage, and networking—over the internet. It gives businesses flexible, scalable infrastructure without the cost or complexity of managing physical hardware. Instead of investing in expensive on-premise infrastructure, you pay only for what you use and scale up or down as needed.
Quick Summary
- IaaS offers virtual infrastructure on demand via cloud providers.
- It includes servers, storage, networking, and virtualisation layers.
- Businesses manage their own software while the provider handles the physical hardware.
- IaaS reduces upfront costs, increases scalability, and improves time to market.
- Origin Digital provides tailored IaaS solutions with enterprise-grade performance, security, and support.
What Is Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)?
IaaS is a core component of cloud computing. It provides organisations with instant access to essential IT infrastructure—virtual servers, data storage, and network resources—delivered as a service through the cloud.
Instead of owning and maintaining physical servers, businesses rent resources from a provider. This model offers full control over your software stack, allowing you to install your own operating systems, run custom applications, and scale infrastructure in real-time.
How Does Infrastructure as a Service Work?
1. Provisioning Resources
You use a web-based dashboard or API to select the infrastructure you need, including compute power (virtual machines), storage capacity, and networking configurations.
2. Installing Operating Systems & Software
Once the environment is provisioned, you install your preferred OS and applications. This is similar to working with an on-premise server—except it’s virtual, flexible, and instantly available.
3. Scaling On Demand
IaaS allows you to scale resources up or down depending on real-time needs. You avoid the risks and costs of over-provisioning, especially during seasonal or project-based demand spikes.
4. Monitoring, Billing & Management
Usage is metered, with transparent billing based on consumption. You can track performance, uptime, and costs using management dashboards—often with automated alerts and optimisation tools.
Key Benefits of IaaS for Business
- Cost Control: Avoid upfront capital investment in servers and infrastructure. Pay only for what you use.
- Scalability: Rapidly scale resources to match growth or changing workloads—ideal for agile businesses.
- Business Continuity: Built-in redundancy, backup options, and disaster recovery services reduce downtime risks.
- Focus on Strategic Priorities: Free your internal teams from infrastructure maintenance so they can focus on innovation and business growth.
When Should You Use IaaS?
- Launching new digital services or products
- Creating development, testing, or staging environments
- Establishing disaster recovery or backup systems
- Avoiding hardware lifecycle costs and maintenance
- Migrating from legacy infrastructure to the cloud
IaaS vs PaaS vs SaaS
| Feature | IaaS | PaaS | SaaS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infrastructure Control | ✅ Full | ⚠️ Partial | ❌ None |
| OS Management | ✅ User-managed | ❌ Managed by provider | ❌ Not accessible |
| Custom Applications | ✅ Fully supported | ✅ Limited to stack | ❌ Predefined only |
| Best For | IT teams, developers | Devs using standardised stacks | End-users using software tools |
Popular IaaS Providers
- Amazon Web Services (AWS)
- Microsoft Azure
- Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
- IBM Cloud
How Origin Digital Delivers IaaS Solutions
At Origin Digital, we provide end-to-end Infrastructure as a Service tailored to your operational needs and growth goals. As Perth’s only IBM Silver Partner—and trusted providers with AWS, Microsoft, and Google—we deliver infrastructure solutions with:
- Cloud architecture planning and implementation
- Secure and scalable virtual environments
- Full lifecycle management and support
- Proactive monitoring, compliance, and risk mitigation
Our Managed Cloud Services ensure your IaaS environment is optimised, secure, and ready to scale.
Final Thoughts: Is IaaS Right for You?
If your business needs flexibility, rapid scalability, or reliable cloud infrastructure without the overhead of managing physical servers, IaaS is a proven solution. Whether you’re a startup, growing enterprise, or government organisation, Origin Digital can help you transition to a cloud-first strategy that supports long-term success.
Enquire Now
Let’s unlock the full potential of your business with tailored, scalable IaaS solutions. Contact Origin Digital to speak with a cloud infrastructure expert today.
FAQs
What is the difference between IaaS and traditional hosting?
Traditional hosting offers fixed resources and limited customisation. IaaS gives you full control, real-time scalability, and usage-based billing.
Is IaaS secure?
Yes. Origin Digital implements best-practice security controls, including encryption, firewalls, access management, and compliance measures.
Can I migrate existing systems to IaaS?
Absolutely. We support legacy system modernisation and cloud migration strategies to ensure minimal disruption and optimal integration.
Do I need to manage the infrastructure myself?
While IaaS offers control, our managed services take care of everything—so your team can focus on core business initiatives.
