Apache OpenWhisk vs FaaS: What are the differences?

## Introduction

1. **Deployment Model**: Apache OpenWhisk is an open-source serverless platform, while FaaS (Function as a Service) is a cloud computing model that allows users to develop and run functions without managing servers.

2. **Vendor Lock-in**: Apache OpenWhisk is not tied to a specific vendor, providing users with the flexibility to run their functions on different cloud platforms. In contrast, FaaS services provided by cloud vendors like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud may lock users into their specific ecosystem.

3. **Pricing Structure**: Apache OpenWhisk is an open-source project and generally free to use, making it cost-effective for users. On the other hand, FaaS services come with pay-per-use pricing models, which can result in unpredictable costs based on the number of executions and resources consumed.

4. **Customization and Control**: Apache OpenWhisk offers more customization options and control over the underlying infrastructure, allowing users to tailor the environment to their specific needs. In comparison, FaaS services often abstract away the infrastructure details, limiting the level of customization available to users.

5. **Community Support and Ecosystem**: Apache OpenWhisk benefits from a vibrant open-source community that contributes to its development and provides support to users. FaaS services, while backed by large cloud providers, may offer extensive documentation and tools but might lack the same level of community support.

6. **Integration with External Services**: Apache OpenWhisk provides flexibility in integrating with various external services and tools through its ecosystem, enabling users to extend the platform's capabilities. In contrast, FaaS services may have native integrations with specific cloud services but could be limited in integrating with third-party tools and services seamlessly.

In Summary, Apache OpenWhisk and FaaS differ in deployment model, vendor lock-in, pricing structure, customization and control, community support, ecosystem, and integration with external services.