CaaS is part of a larger category of services known as Software as a Service (SaaS), in which vendors offer software products and services over the Internet. It is also an alternative to the traditional model of buying and installing licensed software on site.

The core concept of CaaS is that accessing these services over the Internet is extremely convenient. The client businesses do not have to worry about maintaining servers and connections, uploading different kinds of content or doing all of the administrative work involved in keeping a communications platform functional. Business users just sign in and use the services. Types of CaaS include Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) or Internet telephone solutions, and video conferencing services.

Businesses have designed specific video conferencing products in which users can sign via the Internet and participate as necessary. Vendors can then bill the business according to its participation. The convenience and utility of CaaS and similar services are rapidly expanding the business world. It is part of a greater trend toward cloud computing services and other remote services used by businesses to reduce overhead or optimize business processes.