The demand for services that outsource backend computing to a cloud service provider is rising. This not only helps an early market release but also leads to a massive saving in budget.
Such a strategy is known as Backend as a Service (BaaS).
BaaS is vital in low to no-code software development, serverless computing, and NoOps. People deploy Backend as a Service due to the benefits of lower engineering costs and a quick time to market software applications.
Before the inception and popularity of cloud computing, BaaS providers were known as MBaaS providers since they met the specific needs of mobile application developers.
Some people wrongly use Platform as a Service (PaaS) synonymously with BaaS. Over time, BaaS has evolved to meet the specific needs of citizen developers and does not provide access to the server level like PaaS.
Basic Working of Backend as a Service (BaaS)
BaaS deploys cloud application programming interfaces, commonly known as APIs, to connect desktop and mobile applications with external cloud services.
A few major back-end services include the following:
- Management of the User’s Access and Identity
- Management of the Application Programming Interfaces
- Management of Data and the Configuration of Databases as per the needs of the business. The database can be easily scaled to accommodate more data
- Push notifications on both email and SMS platforms. Other platforms can also be configured
- Overall infrastructure management and cost forecasting including maintenance
- Location-based services and accurate geospatial information
- Integration of social media platforms
- Automated Backup of Data and Storage Management to ensure the safety of data
Why use Backend as a Service?
BaaS provides the users with features that can be deployed across multiple spectra of applications. It can solve many of the business’s pain points and issues at once. A platform of BaaS will solve the following:
- Companies who are looking for the scalability and comprehensive management of the entire cloud infrastructure
- Business that aims at an enhanced speed of backend development leading to early release. This allows for getting ahead of the competition
Let us now discuss the major benefits of using Backend as a Service (BaaS).
Freedom from the Backend Grind
Backend as a Service (BaaS) allows the users to free themselves of the backend grind. The developers are never distracted by exploring and implementing the open-source Node.js frameworks or rebuilding the backend for every feature over and over again. Sine a BaaS provider takes control of all of this, you can focus all resources and attention on the front end and deliver a quality experience. You can expect much faster rollouts since the development team is not burdened with manipulations in the server. The front end is the core of user experience in the current age and with an enhanced focus on it, businesses can expect greater returns on investment.
Cost Cutting
One of the biggest benefits of BaaS is the optimization of expenditures. If the backend development is outsourced, the apps can be rolled out and maintained with the help of the vendor. You no longer need to hire full-stack web developers or expand the number of employees in the company to troubleshoot problems. The cost is cut even further because of the integration of cloud technology and its added benefits with it. You no longer need to spend money on physical servers and backend hardware. Many tools come pre-loaded within the cloud platforms. Such resource optimization can be a gold mine for small startups or companies that are in the early phase of their inception.
Enhanced Security
The vendor is completely responsible for the data that is collected in your application or the transfer between it and third-party services. They employ specialized algorithms and encryption services to ensure the safety of the web, database, and servers. Authentication and authorization are also the responsibility of the vendor. This provides ease of mind since you do not have to worry about employing computationally expensive algorithms to maintain the sanctity of your data.
Flexibility and Scalability
Backend as a Service (BaaS) provides a key benefit of scalability and flexibility. Due to scalability, the provider can grow as per your demand and accommodate the increased number of users and requests. BaaS is typically quite flexible, which makes it easy to integrate with existing systems and applications. Most BaaS providers comprise rich security features and extensive customization to tailor it for your business. Since you do not have to add hardware with the increasing demand, you can easily scale your business while the vendor takes responsibility for meeting the requirements.
Reliability and Support
BaaS is always considered a gold standard when considering support and reliability. These providers typically offer more reliable and supported systems than those provided by traditional hosting. BaaS providers respond to changes in the market promptly. Autonomy from host providers allows them to experiment with new technologies and services without having to worry about cascaded changes in the customer base. BaaS providers are a safe bet for those looking for reliable systems backed by robust support services. The BaaS provider will have a comprehensive monitoring system in place that will ensure that your data is always safe and secure. The entire system is quite reliable since the vendor has robust backup mechanisms to cope with any unforeseen circumstances.
Conclusion
Using Backend as a Service provider can provide many benefits for your business. They are easy to use and more reliable for business. They also provide additional features such as detailed analytics and management of customers that can add value to the customer’s business. Such services can offer the users more control and flexibility over their data while providing fast service. In the current age of fast-paced and agile development, Backend as a Service (BaaS) can provide great value to the user since it takes care of all the operational costs and development along with the responsibility for the safety and security of the user data.