Local server VS Cloud server: What I have to choose?
When running a small business with more than one person, you should start
considering the benefits of purchasing your first server in order to have the advantage of
central file storage, backup capabilities, email and calendaring services, centralized printing,
document sharing, security and many other services that will make staff more productive
and your business more efficient.
However, the latest trend for these scenarios is cloud computing which offers most
of these capabilities. A cloud provider could offer these services over the Internet through a
remote data centre on a subscription basis. On this case, the problem is to make the right
decision since you need to choose from purchase your own server or subscribe on a cloud
based service on a monthly fee subscription basis.
Nevertheless, you should choose one of the two aforementioned solutions. Below
are demonstrated the advantages and disadvantages of having your own server.
Advantages

Local security controlled by yourself or your IT staff.

Run any application without any boundaries since you have full control.

Fastest access on your files, backups and printers.

Local access on the actual hardware in case of failure.

No need for Internet access in order to access your files.
Disadvantages

Initial capital is very high in relation with cloud services.

Maintenance costs might be high in case you have several servers.

IT support will be required for the maintenance of the hardware and software of
your server.
Nevertheless, cloud services have also their advantages and disadvantages. Below are
demonstrated their benefits and drawbacks.
Advantages

Stable monthly costs without any initial capital.

Limitless expansion of your servers based on your needs.

Savings on maintenance costs.

Access to your data from anywhere without any additional cost.

Pay as you grow schemes which correspond to cost savings in the long run.
Disadvantages

Not feasible to use any application that you desire.

Your data is stored in the cloud provider’s data centre.

Very difficult to change cloud service providers.

Accessing to your data might be slow since it is based on your Internet connection,
The correct solution does not have anything to do with technology innovation or IT
expertise that you or your IT people might have. It is totally based on the way that you do
business and what software and data you have. However, most of the times, a cloud based
solution is the most appropriate and cost-effective for small to medium size businesses
since offers functionality that large corporations are using at a fraction of the real costs.
In order to be able to make the right decision, you need to compare all of the above
to the way that your business processes are working. Our experience IT consultants can help
you take the correct decision. You can schedule a meeting with one of our IT consultants by
sending an email to info@ibs.com.cy or by calling at 25 250 666.
Also, small businesses planning to make investments in IT should ensure they
understand the advantages and disadvantages of both solutions (on-premise servers and
cloud-based services).
Avgoustinos Constantinides
IT Consultant
IBSAC Intelligent Business Solutions Ltd