Application hosting provides specific software over a network, with complete management and infrastructure for an application. It reduces costs and installation time, and is often paid based on usage. Common uses include advertising, payroll, HR, training, ecommerce, and content management. However, it has disadvantages such as lack of customization and compromised data control.
Application hosting is a type of web hosting service that provides specific software to clients over a network or the Internet. It is distinct from general web hosting in that it usually provides complete management and infrastructure for an application with a particular use, rather than just providing a web server or server space. Application hosting uses include software as a service, content management systems, and payment processing.
Individuals and businesses can choose to use software hosting, as it can provide the benefits of a short installation time frame for new software and also reduce overall costs. For example, if a company wants to use specific HR software, it would need to purchase a commercial license for the software as well as server space to run the application and train people on how to update, install, and manage the software. With managed hosting, the hosting provider offers the software on their own servers and usually handles all installation, updating, and maintenance of the software and server.
Application hosting is often paid based on usage, such as per month of access to the software. This can further reduce the cost of using expensive software for a business, as it can ensure that you only pay for the use it actually needs. Application hosting is usually accessed by a business or individual who has paid for the service through a web interface provided by the hosting company, just like logging into a website. The applications and software provided from an application hosting company are owned by the hosting provider, not the company that pays to use the software as a service.
A common use of this type of hosting is software for advertising services, where the provider manages the server and the software that displays and tracks web-based advertisements. Other uses are payroll applications and human resource management software. Training program modules are often offered as hosted applications, which employees can access to watch videos and take assessments. Ecommerce software and payment processing is another commonly offered service. Content management systems, such as blog hosting and media hosting for images and videos, are also used for hosting applications.
Application hosting has disadvantages and is not always the preferred solution for every business hosting purpose. Programs used as software as a service are generally not customizable and cannot be easily integrated with other applications. The data and information used with the application is outside the direct control of the company and therefore can be more easily compromised.
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