CompTIA Cloud+ Practice Test

Which model allows the cloud provider to own and manage all levels of the computing environment?

1. Infrastructure as a Service

2. Software as a Service

3. Platform as a Service

4. Network as a Service

The correct answer is: Software as a Service

The model that allows the cloud provider to own and manage all levels of the computing environment is indeed Software as a Service (SaaS). In this model, the cloud provider is responsible for maintaining the entire infrastructure, which includes hardware, software, networking, and the complete application stack. Users simply access the software over the internet, usually through a web browser, without needing to worry about the underlying layers. This level of management frees users from the complexities of infrastructure maintenance, software updates, and security patches, as these responsibilities fall entirely on the provider. By doing so, SaaS offers convenience, scalability, and ease of use, making it ideal for businesses that want to leverage essential applications without the overhead of managing resources. In contrast, the other models provide varying degrees of control and management. For instance, Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) allows users to manage the operating systems, applications, and some middleware while the provider manages the physical hardware. Platform as a Service (PaaS) provides an environment for developers to build applications and manage the applications without handling the underlying infrastructure. Network as a Service (NaaS) focuses primarily on network services rather than comprehensive application deployment. Thus, SaaS is distinct in that it fully abstracts