Hardware-as-a-service (in managed services):

Hardware-as-a-service (HaaS) is a procurement model that is similar to leasing or licensing.

In the hardware-as-a-service model, hardware that belongs to a managed service provider (MSP) is installed at a customer's site and a service level agreement (SLA) defines the responsibilities of both parties.

Sometimes the client pays a monthly fee for using the hardware; sometimes its use is incorporated into the MSP's fee structure for installing, monitoring and maintaining the hardware. Either way, if the hardware breaks down or becomes out dated, the MSP is responsible for decommissioning it and replacing it.

Depending upon the terms of the SLA, decommissioning may include wiping proprietary data, physically destroying hard drives and certifying that old equipment has been recycled legally.

The HaaS model can be a cost-effective way for small or mid-sized businesses to provide employees with state-of-the-art hardware in a cost-effective manner. HaaS can be contrasted with infrastructure-as-a service (IIS) and managed hosting, procurement models in which the hardware is housed at the MSP's site.