Should I Buy A New Server?
If you’re thinking about buying a new server for your business, read this first. While servers used to be the backbone of digital workplace operations, they’re fast going out of fashion. These days, it’s a much better option for SMBs to move to the cloud instead.
You’ve undoubtedly heard of the cloud – but did you know that it can replace your old server entirely? Perhaps you’ve been hesitant about moving to the cloud because of security fears. Well, the cloud can actually be much more secure than on-premises servers. It can also be more cost-effective. Rather than having to pay to maintain and update your own server, the cloud provider takes care of that for you.
So, what is cloud computing? Cloud computing offers storage and applications ‘as a service’. This means you and your employees can store and access your data in an off-premises server that is managed by another company. You can also use web-based applications, like Microsoft 365 Business Premium, for day to day activities like email, video conferencing and spreadsheets.
Already, many SMBs are choosing the cloud over servers. In fact, Gartner predicts that, by 2025, 80% of enterprises will shut down their traditional data centers in favor of the cloud – 10% already have!
Below, we’ll explore five reasons why moving to the cloud is a better option than purchasing a new server.
Servers are becoming antiquated and are no longer fit for purpose
Maintaining a server is a lot of work. You need to be aware of security gaps and put in place a rigorous update process to ensure that your server stays secure. This takes time, expertise and resources, which can eat away at the bottom line.
By contrast, with a cloud solution, the cloud provider manages the underlying infrastructure for you. This means you don’t have to worry about upgrading your systems or plugging security holes in the same way. It’s taken out of your hands. Moreover, cloud providers like Microsoft, Amazon and Google have a solid reputation for security, so your data is safe with them.
Saying this, you do have some security responsibility in the cloud – mainly when it comes to access permissions and configuration settings. If you’d like support with utilizing the cloud securely, speak to us. We offer dedicated advice and support.
Costs, costs and costs!
Servers are costly expenses and are often less cost-efficient than the cloud. As well as paying upfront for a server, you’ll probably have to replace it every 4 – 5 years. Moreover, during that time period, you may have to deal with repairs and maintenance costs.
There’s also the fact that servers use up a lot of power. They can easily cost upward of $1500 a year in energy.
While cloud solutions also come at a price, cloud providers offer fixed monthly plans that are predictable and steady. Over the long-term, the cloud is almost always cheaper than running your own server.
Lack of flexibility
When people buy servers, they tend to think of their business needs at that time. However, business needs change very quickly in today’s world. As you onboard new staff, expand to new locations and embrace remote working, it’s likely that your server will struggle to keep up. You may even need to buy a couple more!
On the other hand, the cloud offers limitless flexibility. You can scale your usage of the cloud up and down quickly, so that it matches your business needs and supports your growth.
Embrace the future!
Here’s the thing, servers are a dying breed. It’s no secret that the cloud is the future of business. By buying a new server, you’re just prolonging the inevitable. It would be much better from an innovation standpoint to embrace the cloud.
Moreover, the cloud can help you to unlock a range of productivity and efficiency benefits. There are countless applications out there designed to help employees work to their optimum. By using an on-premises server, you’re staying stuck in the past when you should be looking forward.
Improved disaster recovery
If a disaster strikes your business, you want to be able to recover your data quickly and entirely. If your server fails, you could lose all your data for good. The cloud is a much better option for backup and disaster recovery.
It gives you the power to automate backups so that you don’t have to keep on top of manual back ups. Moreover, your data is stored across several locations to ensure redundancy and security.
What cloud solution is best for my business?
There are many cloud solutions out there designed to meet different businesses’ needs. One of the best solutions is Microsoft Office 365. This cloud-based solution features cloud storage, collaboration tools and Microsoft’s well known apps, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint and Microsoft Outlook.
Moving from on-premise infrastructure to the cloud can be complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. We can help you move from on-premise servers to the cloud quickly and efficiently – with minimal disruption.
We also offer managed IT services, meaning we’ll manage and maintain your cloud services for you to ensure that costs stay low and everything runs as secure as possible.
Learn More About Getting Started with Microsoft 365 Business Premium
Skyline IT Management can help your Oklahoma business with any questions about Microsoft 365 and get you started with the plan that’s perfect for your needs.
Book a Call today to schedule a technology consultation.
