When thinking about which systems to use for your business, whether that be on-premise or Cloud models, there can be various factors to consider as different models will be right for different businesses.

Explore as Blacklight Software discusses the differences between on-premise and Cloud systems debating which one is best as well as being more affordable, secure and accessible for businesses. For all this and more, read on.

 

What Is On-Premise?

On-premise is a method of deploying software, running on computers on a premise of an organisation. Applications and software running on-premises mean that it can only be hosted and accessed on-site. The opposite of this would be that IT, software and applications can be accessed remotely and through a public cloud platform or a remote data centre.

‘On-prem’ computer programmes are installed straight onto a computer’s USB drives or CDs. Businesses that use on-premise programs and software have more control over their IT. They can maintain the security, performance and upkeep more easily as well as keep track of the physical location of their devices.

Companies may choose to choose an on-premise system as it does not require third-party access and gives owners physical control over the server hardware. This type of system means that it does not come with a monthly cost to use it.

 

What Is Cloud?

Cloud computing is a computer system, resources and data shared on-demand and in any location thanks to the data centre and ability to connect to it in order locations that are not on-site, or in other words within the workplace.

Often referred to as “The Cloud”, it can be accessed over the internet. Cloud data servers are also located all over the world in data centres. With cloud computers, companies do not have to run or manage physical servers themselves or run software applications on their machines. This gives companies hybrid cloud solutions for greater flexibility.

There has been a rise in the shift towards working more remotely and therefore businesses using cloud systems more and more to work more efficiently from outside the workplace. Hybrid environments use a combination of both on-premise and cloud solutions.

 

Advantages of On-Premise

A big advantage for business is that you are not paying for other licences. The cost of on-premise software and applications is the cost of the entire thing to own. This means that an on-premise solution is likely to have a lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) than systems such as cloud-based systems.

On-premise systems have more and complete control over hardware, data and software platforms, as they belong to the organisation. The company that owns the software can decide on the configuration and upgrades as well as system changes.

Workers with on-premise software also do not have to rely on an internet connection or other external factors to be able to work. They can assess the software no matter what the other factors are.

 

Disadvantages of On-Premise

On-premise means a large upfront investment to purchase and own the software, applications and operating systems that a business needs. This is as well as the maintenance costs to support the software functionality upgrades.

As a company, you are responsible for maintaining the updates and debugging, making sure everything is running smoothly. This includes data backups and the maintenance of server hardware.

It is not best practice for smaller companies and businesses to operate using on-premise systems as they will not have the budget or technical expertise or resources to be able to handle the upkeep or costs of having on-premise software for their business.

 

Advantages of The Cloud

One of the main factors for using The Cloud is you can access it from anywhere and any place. Additionally, cloud systems are paid for by regular payments, at no upfront cost. This is a more affordable option than on-premise types and so better for small businesses.

Monthly costs of the cloud include maintenance and support services. These are handled but the service provided is. The costs are also a much more stable and predictable way of paying.

Keeping your data secure is a lot safer, more manageable and more affordable for most businesses when using Cloud services.

Cloud technologies are extremely versatile, flexible and scalable. You will only pay for what you use with the Cloud. The software can also be installed in a matter of hours, other on-premise types have to be installed on a physical service which can take much longer, need more power and therefore can be more expensive to install.

 

Disadvantages of The Cloud

To use the Cloud, users must have access to the internet. In cases when the internet is not available or has a poor connection, productivity levels will be lower for your team.

Using the Cloud long term could be more costly for business, instead of an upfront investment that could be a cheaper option in the long term.

For companies, Cloud software is typically less configurable compared to on-premise. The levels of data protection can vary depending on the cloud service provider.

Like with any IT system, robots can happen which can slow down business operations and processes and can be damaging.

 

Blacklight Software Concludes

At Blacklight Software, we help our clients reach their potential and increase profits. We specialise in many areas that can help the online presence of your business or your team.

We have expertise in the areas of Dynamics 365, and Microsoft 365 including SharePoint, bespoke .NET Development and Azure and Cloud computing. Cloud computing can help meet the demands of your business. Using cutting-edge technology we can help your business transform.