If you pay a subscription fee to use an application via the internet rather than purchasing the software outright, the app is called a/an -- application.

Software as a Service (SaaS)

Explanation:

Cloud computing can be defined as a type of computing that requires shared computing resources such as cloud storage (data storage), servers, computer power, and software over the internet rather than local servers and hard drives.

Generally, cloud computing offers individuals and businesses a fast, effective and efficient way of providing services.

Cloud computing comprises of three (3) service models and these are;

1. Platform as a Service (PaaS).

2. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS).

3. Software as a Service (SaaS).

Software as a Service (SaaS) can be defined as a cloud computing delivery model which involves the process of making licensed softwares available over the internet for end users on a subscription basis through a third-party or by centrally hosting it.

Hence, Software as a Service (SaaS) is an example of a cloud computing environment that provides users with a web based email service. Therefore, if you pay a subscription fee to use an application via the internet rather than purchasing the software outright, the app is called a Software as a Service (SaaS) application.

Some examples of SaaS applications are Salesforce, Google apps, Bigcommerce, Dropbox, Slack etc.