Comparison of Cloud Computing, SaaS, SOA and Microservices

Abstract

A network application is an application that runs on a single host and facilitates communication with another application running on a different computer or host. Numerous network applications have been introduced, including cloud computing, SaaS, SOA, and microservices. However, these technologies have often been used interchangeably, leading to confusion among developers and researchers. Therefore, the objective of this study is to review and compare the available network applications, specifically cloud computing, Software as a Service (SaaS), Service Oriented Architecture (SOA), and microservices. This study conducts a comparative analysis by examining several important criteria such as definition, type, language, interoperability, characteristics, and examples. By providing clear and precise definitions for each technology, the study aims to clarify their distinctions and appropriate usage contexts. The findings successfully establish the correct terminology for each technology and offer detailed discussions on the specific platforms and situations where each is most suitable. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for developers and researchers seeking to navigate the complexities of modern network applications.