Function-as-a-service (FaaS) is a cloud solution that allows clients to execute modular pieces of code on the edge.
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Understanding function-as-a-service
Function-as-a-service enables clients to execute small, modular pieces of code known as functions without having to maintain their own infrastructure.
FaaS is a relatively new cloud computing model that was pioneered in the early 2010s by companies such as PiCloud.
The model is based on serverless technology that allows software developers to deploy cloud applications without the hassle of server management.
To better understand how the FaaS model can benefit these individuals, we feel it is worth explaining serverless architecture and functions in more detail.
What is serverless architecture?
Serverless architecture does not mean the application runs without a server in the literal sense. Indeed, it is well understood that some kind of hardware host is necessary for application deployment.
Fundamental to serverless architecture is that a cloud service provider allocates storage space and manages the application servers on behalf of the developer.
What is a function?
Think of a function as an operation or task that can be written as a small piece of code and executed independently within an application.
Functions are extensions of the microservice architecture, itself an evolution of monolithic architecture.
Central to microservice architecture is the idea that applications are comprised of a modular collection of microservices that are deployed individually and, as a result, are easier to test and maintain.
How does function-as-a-service work?
Under the function-as-a-service model, developers do not maintain application servers and are instead hosted by the FaaS provider who allocates resources based on user needs.
When a software developer wants to deploy a function, the FaaS provider executes the function by spinning up a server and then shutting it down.
Since the architecture is only active when the function is being used, the function is shut down and the same resources can be allocated somewhere else.
To that end, FaaS is provided on-demand and based on the event-driven execution model. Unlike platform-as-a-service, for example, it does not require that server processes be constantly running in the background.
This makes FaaS ideal for simple, repetitive functions such as web request processing and routine task scheduling.
Benefits of function-as-a-service
Here are some of the benefits of function-as-a-service:
- Scalability โ as a cloud-based service, FaaS is eminently scalable. Specific functions can be scaled in isolation based on their usage, which is a more efficient use of computing resources when compared to scaling the entire application.
- Lower costs โ function-as-a-service is also more cost-effective since companies need to invest less in operating systems, hardware, and other infrastructure. The on-demand, event-driven nature of FaaS also means developers only pay for the resources they actually consume.
- Streamlined logistics โ development teams enjoy FaaS because it streamlines the update and code release process. With the service provider doing the heavy lifting, so to speak, developers can devote more time to ensuring updates are more rapid and responsive to customer needs.
Key takeaways:
- Function-as-a-service (Faas) is a cloud-computing solution that allows clients to execute modular pieces of code on the edge. It is based on serverless technology that allows developers to deploy applications without having to worry about server management
- Function-as-a-service is based on the event-driven execution model and is provided on-demand. When a function is deployed, the FaaS provider executes the function by spinning up a server and then shutting it down so that resources can be directed elsewhere.
- Function-as-a-service has several benefits. These include streamlined logistics, lower costs, and scalability.
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