QuickBooks Desktop has been a go-to accounting software for businesses for years. It has powerful features that can help manage finances, track expenses, and stay organized. But if you’ve ever wished you could access your QuickBooks data from anywhere without being stuck to a computer, you’re not alone. The way businesses operate has changed, and so is the need for more flexible accounting solutions.
That’s where you can benefit from cloud technology. You can host QuickBooks Desktop on the cloud to work from anywhere, collaborate with your team in real-time, and eliminate the risks that come with storing data on a single device. This also means – no more worrying about system crashes, software updates, or losing access just because you’re not at your office desk.
Before you jump in, you need to know that not all cloud solutions are the same. Each option has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your business needs. In this post, we’ll walk you through the top cloud models you can adopt for QuickBooks Desktop. Let’s get started.
4 Most Effective Cloud Models to Host Your Licensed QuickBooks Desktop
Here are four effective cloud models that let you host your licensed QuickBooks Desktop while keeping performance, security, and accessibility in check:
Private cloud hosting is a dedicated cloud environment where your licensed QuickBooks Desktop is hosted on a secure, dedicated server. It is tailored specifically for your business and offers complete control over data, security, and access.
You can choose private cloud hosting for:
- Enhanced security backed by firewalls, encryption, and restricted access
- Custom server configuration settings based on your business requirements
- Reliable performance unlike the case of shared servers
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Public Cloud Hosting
Public cloud hosting allows you to run your QuickBooks Desktop software on shared cloud infrastructure managed by third-party providers. You need not maintain your server but leverage a scalable and cost-effective cloud environment while still accessing QuickBooks remotely.
You can choose public cloud hosting as it is:
- Cost-effective since resources are shared among multiple users and you pay only for what you use
- Highly scalable and you can upgrade or downgrade resources based on business needs without investing in hardware
- Globally accessible from anywhere to ensure seamless remote work opportunities
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Hybrid Cloud Hosting
Hybrid cloud hosting combines the power of private and public cloud infrastructures. Under this model, your QuickBooks Desktop software can be hosted on a private cloud for sensitive or critical data, while you can host non-sensitive data/applications on a public cloud. This combination can provide the flexibility to switch between these environments based on your needs.
You can choose hybrid cloud hosting for:
- Optimal flexibility to keep critical financial data
- Cost efficiency to reduce overall costs
- Seamless scalability as you can easily scale cloud resources up or down depending on business demand
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Managed Cloud Hosting
Managed cloud hosting is a solution where a third-party service provider handles the cloud infrastructure for you, including server management, software updates, and data security. In this model, QuickBooks Desktop is hosted on a cloud environment that’s fully managed by the provider. This ensures minimal hands-on involvement from your side.
Here is why you can go for managed cloud hosting:
- The cloud provider takes care of all server maintenance and security measures, so you can focus on your business.
- With managed hosting, you get access to 24/7 expert support.
- The service provider ensures the cloud environment is always optimized for performance and gives reliable access to QuickBooks without disruptions.
Common FAQs Related to Hosting QB Desktop on the Cloud
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What are the benefits of hosting QuickBooks Desktop on the cloud?
Hosting QuickBooks Desktop on the cloud offers several advantages, including remote access, enhanced security, and reduced IT infrastructure costs. It also allows you to access accounting data from any device and collaborate with your team in real-time.
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Do I need to switch to QuickBooks Online to use the cloud?
No, you don’t need to switch to QuickBooks Online. You can continue using your licensed QuickBooks Desktop on the cloud by hosting it on a third-party server. This lets you retain the desktop features while gaining the benefits of cloud accessibility.
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Is it safe to store financial data on the cloud?
Cloud hosting providers implement advanced security measures to protect your financial data. If you choose a reputable cloud provider, your data will be much safer than on a local machine that could be prone to theft or hardware failure.
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Can multiple users access QuickBooks Desktop on the cloud at the same time?
Yes, cloud hosting allows multiple users to access QuickBooks Desktop simultaneously from different locations. This can be quite useful for teams or businesses with remote workers.
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Will I need to purchase additional hardware or software?
When you switch to QB cloud hosting, you don’t need to purchase or maintain hardware inhouse. The hosting provider takes care of the infrastructure.
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How do I migrate my QuickBooks Desktop data to the cloud?
Migrating your QuickBooks Desktop to the cloud is typically easy, and your hosting provider will assist with the migration. They ensure your QuickBooks data, including company files and settings, are safely transferred to the cloud without disruption.
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Is cloud hosting for QuickBooks Desktop expensive?
The cost of cloud hosting depends on the hosting model you choose and the level of service you require. The benefits of cloud hosting often outweigh the costs, especially when factoring in IT savings.
