The software model that typically provides a platform for hosting web applications is the cloud computing model. This model allows for scalable resource allocation and flexibility, supporting various deployment options such as Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). By leveraging cloud platforms, developers can focus on building applications without worrying about the underlying hardware infrastructure. This not only accelerates the development lifecycle but also enhances accessibility, enabling users to reach applications from any device with internet connectivity.