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Cloud Development with Backend-as-a-Service

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Backend-as-a-Service in practical use – Part 1

More and more applications—both mobile and web-based—are accessing data in the cloud. Instead of running their own servers and databases, many developers rely on so-called Backend-as-a-Service platforms, which provide standardized functions as a cloud service. This article explains how these services can be used, what advantages they offer, and what to consider when choosing one.

Backend-as-a-Service ( BaaS ) is aA cloud model where developers outsource all backend tasks to a cloud service and can focus on the frontend logic. The core function of such a BaaS (Building as a Service) is lightweight data storage. Its use reduces development time and allows teams to concentrate on the actual application.

Typical use cases include mobile and web apps that require rapidly scalable backends without developers having to worry about infrastructure . Using BaaS saves time and money .

Typical features of BaaS offerings

BaaS platforms typically offer a bundle of backend services via an API or SDK . Core functions typically include:

Database and storage: Scalable NoSQL or SQL databases as well as blob/file storage in the cloud. Developers can store, query, or save data (e.g., JSON documents) as files.
Authentication: Built-in user management with email login, password reset, social logins (OAuth via Facebook, Google, etc.) and role-based access control.
Real-time features: Some BaaS offer real-time synchronization, e.g., live updates via WebSockets and offline support, so that clients always see up-to-date data.
Notifications: Push notifications and email services for user communication.
Hosting and serverless functions: Provision of static assets and, if necessary, serverless logic (Functions-as-a-Service) to implement custom API endpoints or triggers.
Other services include geolocation services, in-app chat, analytics, etc. Many BaaS solutions support their own additional features such as performance monitoring or search indexing.

Simply put, BaaS providers relieve developers of typical backend tasks. It's important to note that most projects don't require the full range of features.

BaaS in the Context of Cloud Computing

Backend-as-a-Service can be classified as a specialized form of cloud computing, situated between Infrastructure-as-a-Service ( IaaS ) and Platform-as-a-Service ( PaaS ). While IaaS provides services such as virtual machines, storage, and network infrastructure, it is the user's responsibility to operate the operating system, middleware , and the actual application logic.

PaaS goes a step further and also provides a fully functional development and execution platform – for example, with pre-installed frameworks , databases, or CI/CD tools. However, both models require a certain degree of responsibility for the backend architecture.

TMS Software Delphi Components

Classifying BaaS in the context of cloud computing.

BaaS abstracts this aspect even further: It provides fully pre-built, production-ready backend components – including database functions, user management, file upload, notifications, and real-time services. Access is usually via standardized APIs or SDKs (Software Development Kits) for various platforms.

Developers can therefore concentrate fully on the frontend and business logic without having to worry about setting up, maintaining, or scaling the backend. BaaS thus closes the gap between platform and ready-made infrastructure and is particularly suitable for the rapid, resource-efficient development of modern web and mobile applications.

Costs, scalability, data protection, effort and risks

The decision for or against BaaS depends largely on the requirements of a project, but also on economic and organizational constraints. Using BaaS offers numerous advantages (cost, scalability, data protection , effort) compared to operating an in-house server infrastructure. Setting up a BaaS typically involves very low initial costs. Many providers offer free entry-level plans or "free tiers" that are perfectly adequate for smaller projects or prototypes.

Operating costs are transparent and usually usage-based: Instead of investing in hardware, licenses, maintenance, or personnel, you only pay for the resources you actually use – for example, per database access, number of users, or storage volume. This pay-as-you-go model is particularly attractive for startups and small teams.

One of the biggest advantages of BaaS platforms is their automatic scalability. Applications that rapidly grow in user numbers don't require manual server upgrades – the cloud infrastructure grows automatically as needed. With a self-hosted server, on the other hand, developers would have to manage load balancing , replication, redundancy , and monitoring themselves, which involves considerable technical and financial effort.

Modern BaaS providers place great emphasis on data protection and often provide tools to implement the requirements of the GDPR or other international data protection regulations. These include features such as role-based access control, audit logs, encryption of data during transmission and storage, and the ability to select specific server locations. Some providers also allow for the conclusion of a data processing agreement, which is a particularly important criterion in the European context.

Using a BaaS significantly reduces implementation effort. Instead of developing their own APIs, authentication mechanisms, or database structures, developers can rely on proven, documented interfaces and SDKs. This not only accelerates development time but also reduces maintenance and the application's susceptibility to errors. Updates, security patches, and infrastructure maintenance are the responsibility of the provider – allowing developers to focus entirely on the business logic of their application.

Other advantages include:

Time savings: through pre-made components.
Faster time-to-market: no need to set up your own infrastructure.
Fewer security risks: BaaS providers typically provide regular security updates.
Integration with other cloud services: for example for analytics, payments or AI functions.

Another key argument for using BaaS solutions lies in the significant relief they provide from setting up and maintaining your own server-side infrastructure. Building a scalable, secure, and high-performance backend is a complex undertaking that requires a high level of technical expertise, experience, and continuous maintenance.

Developers developing their own software must deal with topics such as server configuration, database management, authentication, API design, security standards, scaling, monitoring, and error handling. Smaller teams and startups, in particular, face a significant challenge here, as they often lack the personnel and time resources to perform these tasks at a pr

BaaS platforms abstract many of these tasks through standardized and readily available services. They offer pre-configured modules for these tasks, accessible via simple interfaces. This allows developers to focus on the core application logic and user experience, rather than dealing with complex backend setups. This not only saves time and money but also reduces the risk of errors in security-critical areas. Additionally, teams benefit from integrated scaling mechanisms and automated maintenance, ensuring a stable and resilient system architecture – even with rapid user growth.

The use of BaaS brings with it many advantages, but also some risks. A key problem is the dependency on the provider: choosing a platform often means becoming deeply tied to its interfaces and data models – switching later is complex and costly. Furthermore, customization options are limited. Complex requirements or specific security measures are often impossible to implement.

Data protection aspects also require critical consideration. Despite GDPR compliance, the application operator remains responsible, especially regarding sensitive data. Another risk lies in potentially rising costs with increasing usage – many services bill API access or storage space separately. Finally, BaaS also means a loss of control; security vulnerabilities or outages on the provider's side directly impact the application. Those requiring maximum control should carefully weigh the pros and cons.

To summarize the arguments: Using a BaaS (Building as a Service) is particularly beneficial for dynamic, digitally savvy projects where development speed, scalability, and low maintenance are paramount. For larger companies with specific compliance or integration requirements, however, operating their own servers (e.g., in a private cloud ) may be more advantageous. The decision should always be based on criteria such as budget, project size, security requirements, and resource availability.

BaaS providers

There are numerous established BaaS providers, each with different focuses and suited to various application scenarios. Among the best-known is Firebase, AWS Amplify, Supabase, Backendless and other specialized platforms, such as StellarDS.

Let's take a look at this BaaS and then consider, as an example, its setup and use from the perspective of a software developer:

Firebase is a Database as a Service (BaaS) provided by Google that offers a NoSQL database (Cloud Firestore and Realtime Database), user authentication, cloud features, push notifications, and hosting for static web applications. Its key features include integrated real-time synchronization and tight integration with other Google services. Firebase is well-suited for highly interactive mobile and web applications, especially those requiring real-time functionality.

AWS Amplify is the BaaS solution in the Amazon ecosystem. It combines services such as authentication, databases (e.g., DynamoDB), GraphQL APIs, hosting, and storage. Amplify is particularly aimed at developers who want to build scalable applications on AWS and automate the management of as many backend components as possible.

Supabase is based on PostgreSQL as its relational database. It offers authentication, real-time functionality, storage, and an SQL-based API. Supabase is aimed at developers who prefer a classic SQL structure but don't want to forgo the convenience features of modern BaaS.

StellarDS is a European BaaS provider specializing in structured, table-based data storage. Unlike many other services, StellarDS uses a relational data model where data is organized in freely definable tables with user-defined fields. The platform provides a REST / JSON API and SDKs for various programming languages, currently JavaScript, TypeScript, .NET, Python, and Delphi, enabling users to create, read, update, and delete data. Key features include role-based access control, multi- tenant support, OAuth2 authentication, metadata management via a web dashboard, and the ability to store both structured and unstructured data. The platform is primarily aimed at developers who rely on a classically structured data model with clear access control and want to comply with European data protection standards (GDPR). It is well-suited for data-driven web and business applications where transparency, structure, and data protection are paramount. Backendless offers both NoSQL and relational database functionality, user management, push notifications, server-side logic, and a visual backend dashboard. The service emphasizes high customizability and also allows visual app development via an integrated UI tool.

These providers cover typical BaaS functionalities to varying degrees. Choosing the right service depends heavily on requirements regarding data model, scalability, real-time performance, integration capabilities, and cost structure.

Original article in German by Elena Bochkor and Dr. Veikko Krypczyk.

You can read the full article here: Cloud-Entwicklung mit Backend-as-a-Service

Aaron Decramer

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