What is a characteristic of software as a service (SaaS)?

Software as a Service (SaaS) is primarily characterized by its subscription-based model. In this model, users access software applications over the internet, typically through a web browser, rather than installing and maintaining the applications on their own local devices or servers. This subscription approach allows businesses and individual users to pay for what they use and often includes ongoing updates, maintenance, and support from the service provider, contributing to the overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the solution.

The subscription model is beneficial as it reduces upfront capital expenditures associated with traditional software licensing and hardware purchases. As users can scale their usage up or down based on their needs, SaaS provides flexibility to organizations of all sizes.