Has your business outgrown its current server?
Do you think it’s time to replace the entire system?
Are you starting to notice that your server is dated and not giving your business the right level of support?
If your answer is yes to even one of the questions above, it may be time to contact a reliable software development company.
If you’re faced with the choice of upgrading to Cloud technology or maintaining an in-house server, you might be confused as to which is the right path to follow. Because this choice has a visible impact on the daily operation of your business, you can’t afford to take it lightly.
As you likely know, there’s a lot to learn about in-house and Cloud technology. However, here, we’ll be breaking things down to basics so you can more easily see the pros and cons of each system.
In-House Servers and What They Have to Offer
When you commission web development services to set up an in-house server, you’re employing one of the oldest tools for SMBs. In-house servers have been the resource of choice for sharing files, hosting applications, emails, and other office essentials for a very long time.
Apart from its other functionalities, in-house servers are still preferred to this day for the absolute control they provide you in terms of physical server security. Because your protection is personalized, you can make it as extensive as you want without relying on any Cloud service.
Another advantage is that you get to upgrade all aspects of it as the needs of your business demand. All this you can do without having to pay any monthly hosting fees.
On the downside, you need a considerable initial capital investment if you want to set up all the software and equipment needed to make in-house servers work. In addition to this, setting up and maintaining this system requires professional support. This means you have to pay the cost of labor often as well.
Hosted Cloud Servers and What They Have to Offer
A comparatively recent development, Cloud-based servers were created to meet the needs of SMBs that have a considerable number of virtual workers and/or generate internal IT expenses. It takes away the hassle of managing the server yourself and helps eliminate the need to hire a dedicated IT staff member.
Yet another apparent advantage of this system is that it readily offers easily scalable solutions that can be modified to the dynamic needs of your team and organization. So basically, a Cloud server streamlines the operation of your business and helps you save costs.
It does have its demerits though. The use of Cloud-based servers predictably demands the presence of a dependable data connection at all times. Without that, it is impossible to access your server.
Also, it raises concerns for some in terms of privacy. If you have to use it to store sensitive information like financial data and consumer medical records, unexpected security breaches might be a real concern. There is also the matter of potentially huge monthly hosting fees to consider.
In-House Servers vs. Cloud Servers – Which do You Choose?
With in-house servers, you have a system designed for your specific needs that also gives you physical control. Also, all sensitive data is handled completely in-house, reducing the risk of a security breach. However, as it demands a high initial investment with the setup and management, it can take a toll on your budget.
Cloud servers offer you a platform that requires comparatively less on-site investment and improved scalability. It readily accommodates virtual workers and even builds on this to enhance efficiency. But the demand for a strong and uninterrupted Internet connection and high monthly hosting charges can also make it challenging to manage. Lastly, it demands that your business be comfortable with sharing sensitive data.
Also, it bears mentioning cloud servers appear more poised to accommodate a future where everyone works from remote locations as opposed to in-house servers.
Ultimately, both systems have their merits and demerits. For all the innovation of the Cloud server, only a limited number of businesses currently leverage it. With that said, businesses that have shifted to Cloud-based servers record a higher level of performance and efficiency as opposed to businesses that still use in-house servers.
What do you think?
Let’s know in the comments section below!
