CLOUD VS ONSITE SERVER.

Having a server is still the right solution for a lot of our customers as it manages all of their logons/data/file permissions and crucially their software. For example programs like Sage 200 or Microsoft Dynamics normally require an SQL Server to run which can be installed on a local server and the server can be configured to have the right specification to work efficiently. The question is can a Cloud server offer you the same efficiency as an on-site server?

There are many instances in which we recommend businesses to have an onsite server and this is for cost reasons as although you have to pay one large payment to buy the server you won’t have monthly payments thereafter. However with a cloud server this will be charged monthly either for the server spec or per user. This can become very costly depending on your business size and depending what spec you need. However there are advantages for both solutions which you can see below.

It’s important to note that the decision to have an onsite server or opt for cloud-based solutions depends on various factors such as the organization’s needs, budget, security considerations, and available resources. Businesses should carefully evaluate their requirements before determining the most suitable infrastructure solution for their IT needs.

On-site Server

Having an on-site server is still the right solution for a lot of our customers as it manages all of their logons/data/file permissions and crucially their software. If bought with the right specification a server can work reliably and efficiently for 5-7 years and this is a very cost effective way of running your network.

ADVANTAGES

Enhanced Control: With an onsite server, businesses have complete control over their data and infrastructure. They can customize the server configuration and security settings to meet their specific requirements. This control allows for greater flexibility in managing and optimizing the server’s performance according to the organization’s needs.
Improved Security: Onsite servers provide an added layer of security since data is stored within the organization’s premises. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches that could occur with cloud-based servers. Businesses can implement robust security measures, such as firewalls, encryption, and access controls, to protect sensitive information.
Faster Data Access: Local servers offer faster data access speeds compared to cloud-based servers. Since the server is physically located within the organization’s premises, the data transfer and retrieval times are minimized, resulting in quicker access to critical information and improved productivity.
Network Performance: An onsite server allows businesses to have direct control over their network infrastructure. They can optimize network configurations, bandwidth allocation, and prioritize data traffic, leading to improved network performance and reduced latency. This is particularly beneficial for applications or services that require low latency, such as real-time collaboration tools or database access.
Compliance and Data Governance: In certain industries or regions, compliance with data governance regulations and legal requirements is crucial. By having an onsite server, businesses can ensure that they have complete visibility and control over their data, facilitating compliance with relevant regulations and industry standards.
Cost Efficiency: Depending on the scale and requirements of the business, an onsite server can be cost-effective in the long run. While the initial setup costs may be higher compared to cloud-based solutions, ongoing monthly fees associated with cloud services can add up over time. By investing in an onsite server, businesses can avoid recurring expenses and have greater control over their IT budget.
Offline Access: In situations where internet connectivity may be limited or unreliable, having an onsite server enables employees to access critical applications and data even when offline. This can be beneficial in remote locations or during temporary disruptions in internet services.
Scalability and Customization: Onsite servers provide businesses with the flexibility to scale their infrastructure according to their growth and requirements. They can easily add or upgrade hardware components, storage capacity, or processing power to accommodate increasing data volumes or expanding operations. Additionally, businesses have the freedom to customize the server environment to fit their specific software applications and workflows.

Cloud Server

Having a cloud server has become more of a popular choice recently as more users work remotely. Having cloud servers for users to log in to means you don’t need to store a physical server anywhere to would be the best solution for any companies with small or no office space.

ADVANTAGES

Scalability: Cloud hosting provides businesses with the flexibility to scale their server resources up or down as needed. With a few clicks or API calls, businesses can quickly add or reduce computing power, storage capacity, and other resources to match their current demands. This scalability allows businesses to adapt to changing workloads, seasonal peaks, or sudden spikes in traffic without the need for significant upfront investments or lengthy hardware procurement processes.
Accessibility and Remote Collaboration: Cloud-hosted servers enable employees to access data, applications, and resources from anywhere with an internet connection. This accessibility promotes remote work, allowing employees to collaborate seamlessly across different locations, time zones, and devices. It enhances productivity and collaboration while providing employees with the flexibility to work from home, on the go, or from client sites.
Disaster Recovery and Data Redundancy: Cloud providers typically offer robust backup and disaster recovery mechanisms. Data is stored in multiple locations or data centers, ensuring redundancy and minimizing the risk of data loss due to hardware failures, natural disasters, or other unforeseen events. Cloud hosting providers often have comprehensive backup and recovery solutions that can quickly restore data and minimize downtime in case of a disaster.
Cost Efficiency: Cloud hosting eliminates the need for upfront hardware investments, server maintenance, and physical infrastructure management. Businesses can avoid costs associated with purchasing, installing, and maintaining servers, cooling systems, power backups, and physical security measures. Instead, they pay for the resources they consume on a subscription or pay-as-you-go basis, which can be more cost-effective, especially for small and medium-sized businesses.
High Reliability and Uptime: Cloud hosting providers typically guarantee high availability and uptime for their services. They have redundant infrastructure, backup power supplies, and extensive monitoring systems to ensure continuous operation. Service level agreements (SLAs) often provide businesses with guarantees for uptime, performance, and responsiveness, minimizing disruptions and maximizing reliability.
Security and Compliance: Cloud hosting providers invest heavily in security measures and compliance certifications to protect customer data. They employ advanced security technologies, encryption, and access controls to safeguard data from unauthorized access, ensuring a high level of security. Additionally, cloud providers often comply with industry standards and regulations, making it easier for businesses to meet their compliance requirements.
Automatic Updates and Maintenance: Cloud hosting providers handle routine server maintenance, including software updates, security patches, and hardware upgrades. Businesses can focus on their core operations without worrying about managing the server infrastructure. By offloading these responsibilities to the provider, businesses can benefit from the latest features, performance enhancements, and security updates without any manual effort.
Global Reach and Scalability: Cloud hosting allows businesses to leverage a global network of data centers to deploy their applications and services closer to their target audience. This reduces latency and improves performance for users across different geographical regions. Additionally, cloud hosting enables businesses to easily expand their operations into new markets and serve customers globally without the need for significant infrastructure investments.

Running either a cloud or on-site server still requires you to back up your files and the server as whole. For an on-site server you have multiple options such as backing up to external drives or to cloud storage like Azure. For a cloud server you would need to back up to the cloud storage or purchase a backup solution directly from the server hosting company which they would manage. Have a look at our Cloud Backup solutions here

CLOUD VS ONSITE SERVER.

On-site Server

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