Dedicated Server vs. The Cloud: Understanding the Pros & Cons

Content provided by Fatech IT Advisors / Communicate By Design-X

Dedicated Server vs. The Cloud: Understanding the Pros & Cons
From housing critical files to collaborating with the team, servers play a quiet but essential role in the daily operations of businesses. While there are many options, two of the most popular choices for servers are dedicated servers and cloud servers. 
When it comes to deciding what kind of server best fits a business’s unique needs, there are several factors to consider. Here is a brief overview of the pros and cons of dedicated servers versus cloud servers.

Dedicated Server

Whether on or offsite, a dedicated server is a file storage method in which the business owns the entire server. (The hardware isn’t shared with other businesses.) On a dedicated server, the files are all arranged on that piece of hardware.

Pros

Total Control

Storing everything on a dedicated server allows the business to keep all critical data under the complete control of the business. The business can oversee any maintenance, address issues, and have direct access to server hardware and files.

Long Term Cost Efficiency

Though the initial cost of a dedicated server can be steep due to the purchase of hardware and software, this option doesn’t require recurring subscription fees, so it can be more cost-effective over the long run.

Cons

Requires a Backup System

Dedicated servers should have several forms of backup to ensure data is recoverable. We recommend a system of three different servers to cover all the bases—one for use, one for backup, and one for an offsite back.

Requires an IT Team

Whether onsite or off, dedicated servers require regular maintenance, and those maintenance responsibilities fall on the business. The business will need a skilled team of IT experts to address issues and make adjustments to keep the servers working correctly.

The Cloud

Cloud servers, also known as “the Cloud,” is a file storage method in which data is broken apart and stored across many data centers worldwide and accessed via the internet.

Pros

Flexibility

Cloud computing allows a business to utilize practically unlimited bandwidth and storage without purchasing more equipment. This allows the business to shrink and grow without worrying about the business’s infrastructure.

Data Protection

The way data is stored on the Cloud is different than it would be on a dedicated server. That difference makes it more difficult for an attacker to gain access to enough information to make it worth their while.

Cons

Less Control

When computer systems aren’t managed in-house, a business will automatically have less control, access, and visibility over operations. If something goes awry, it’s more challenging to spot an issue and fix it.

Expensive

For companies that work with large files, storing them in the Cloud can be very costly. These servers require monthly subscription costs. More bandwidth will require a higher monthly fee and add up over time.

Servers Systems are Not Mutually Exclusive

While a company may choose to work solely with dedicated servers or cloud servers, many companies will have some form of both severs to create a robust IT system that meets their evolving needs.

Choosing the Best Option

Finding the right file storage solution is unique for every business. Contact us to start working with our team of IT pros to find the best solution.