FaaS vs IPaaS
FaaS (Function as a Service) and IPaaS (Integration Platform as a Service) both come up in technology conversations and get confused. Here's the plain-English difference, side by side, so you can use each one with confidence.
The key difference: FaaS refers to function as a service, while IPaaS refers to integration platform as a service — they describe different things even when they show up in the same sentence.
FaaS — Function as a Service
A cloud model where you ship individual functions and the platform handles servers, scaling, and idle time. Pay-per-execution makes it brilliant for spiky workloads and brutal for steady ones.
IPaaS — Integration Platform as a Service
Cloud-hosted middleware that connects SaaS apps, databases, and on-prem systems without bespoke code. The quiet glue layer that keeps modern stacks from collapsing under their own integrations.
When to use FaaS
Reach for "FaaS" when the conversation is specifically about function as a service. A cloud model where you ship individual functions and the platform handles servers, scaling, and idle time. Pay-per-execution makes it brilliant for spiky workloads and brutal for steady ones.
When to use IPaaS
Reach for "IPaaS" when the conversation is specifically about integration platform as a service. Cloud-hosted middleware that connects SaaS apps, databases, and on-prem systems without bespoke code. The quiet glue layer that keeps modern stacks from collapsing under their own integrations.
FAQs
What is the difference between FaaS and IPaaS?
FaaS stands for Function as a Service — A cloud model where you ship individual functions and the platform handles servers, scaling, and idle time. Pay-per-execution makes it brilliant for spiky workloads and brutal for steady ones. IPaaS stands for Integration Platform as a Service — Cloud-hosted middleware that connects SaaS apps, databases, and on-prem systems without bespoke code. The quiet glue layer that keeps modern stacks from collapsing under their own integrations.
Are FaaS and IPaaS the same thing?
No. They're often used in the same conversation because they're related, but they describe different concepts. FaaS = Function as a Service. IPaaS = Integration Platform as a Service.
When should I use FaaS vs IPaaS?
Use FaaS when you're specifically referring to function as a service. Use IPaaS when the topic is integration platform as a service.