The question of whether to use a small server or cloud services for your business has only recently become one that anyone outside of a professional IT role has really needed to consider. Today, the demands of data storage and online communications capacities are part and parcel of running even the smallest business, so making sure you are aware of all the relevant solutions that might be available to you is something that all business owners should make a priority.

Servers

Traditionally, having an on-site server facility has been the business solution of choice for many. The knowledge that your data is under your own physical lock and key can bring peace of mind. Also, the fact that money can be saved by self-servicing on a small scale can make a real difference to the bottom line of a small business. However, there are drawbacks, as with a bigger server setup, the associated problems such as heat generation, power consumption and noise can become significant issues.

Off-site

In the past, the solutions to these problems have meant going off-site for services, with the additional bonuses of having almost unlimited capacity upgrades and zero concerns about maintenance and operational side effects. Security can also be boosted by using an off-site server as both physical locations and backup methodologies are usually far more robust than they would be when running your own system.

The cloud

Today, these remote location servers are more generally known under the name of “the cloud”, but in fact, there are many more advantages than the traditional off-site servers of the past. The clue is really in the name, because cloud server services are set up to make the most of accessibility options 24/7. The rapid increase in handheld and mobile tech means that we are all used to accessing data on the go, and for a business, this has many different applications. From simple data retrieval right through to interpersonal employee interactions, a cloud server system can give a business the edge over rivals and the flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions.

Future services

The development of cloud servers is really still in the early stages, and access to data, improved cybersecurity, and less responsibility for maintenance are just the initial benefits for businesses. When it comes to what the future looks like for each of these options, comms room specialists are best placed to know where things are heading. Using the latest generations of IT equipment and modular solution structures, these types of firms are on the cutting edge of the way that the cloud is bringing wide-ranging benefits across the spectrum.

Decision time

Deciding whether or not a small server or the cloud is the best for your business is something that is entirely up to you, as there really is no “one-size-fits-all” answer. However, the dramatic improvements in both approaches over recent years means that cost-effective solutions are now available that simply would have been unimaginable only a few years ago.