QuickBooks Desktop is a popular accounting software used by accountants and CPAs to manage their financial operations. Nevertheless, businesses nowadays demand remote access, cost-effectiveness, smooth user collaboration, and improved control over their financial processes. The cloud-based QuickBooks version fulfills all these requirements efficiently.
Cloud-based QuickBooks refers to deploying the QuickBooks Desktop software on cloud servers instead of being installed and run on individual local computers.
Given that 94% of accountants already use cloud accounting in their operations, it is essential to understand what a QuickBooks cloud desktop is and how it works.
What Does Hosting QuickBooks in the Cloud Mean?
Hosting QuickBooks in the cloud means storing your QuickBooks software and data on remote servers accessed via the internet. It offers flexibility, security, and scalability, allowing users to access QuickBooks anytime. With cloud hosting, you can streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and reduce IT costs.
QuickBooks cloud accounting provides a familiar desktop experience with enhanced features. It allows multiple users to access the software, offering compatibility, scalability, flexibility, and enterprise-grade security. The QB cloud version reduces the limitations of traditional desktop-based accounting practices.
Parameters To Consider When Transitioning To Using QuickBooks on Cloud
Transitioning to QuickBooks cloud accounting provides a seamless experience, but there are some things to consider first. Here’s what you need to know before you start:
- Choose a Reliable Hosting Provider: Find a reliable company specializing in hosting QuickBooks.
- Decide on QuickBooks Version: Determine which version of QuickBooks (Pro, Premier, Enterprise, or POS) you want to use in the cloud.
- Get Licenses: Make sure you have valid licenses for the QuickBooks software you’ll be using. If you don’t have one, you can get it from a trusted source like Ace Cloud Hosting.
- Understand Costs: Take the time to understand the QuickBooks cloud pricing structure for hosting plans, including fees based on users and server resources.
- Prepare Your Data: Keep your user login details handy for accessing your QuickBooks account once it’s hosted.
- Migrate Your Data: Work with your hosting provider to seamlessly migrate your existing QuickBooks data to the cloud, ensuring it reflects your local setup.
- Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection to access QuickBooks online.
Taking care of these things upfront will help ensure a smooth transition to using QuickBooks in the cloud, giving you more flexibility and security for your accounting needs.
Steps to Work on QuickBooks Hosted on Cloud
Once your hosting provider sets up a server with QuickBooks installed, you can easily access the hosted application via Remote Desktop Connection on your device.
Here’s how you can access QuickBooks hosted on the cloud:
- Your cloud hosting provider will provide you with the Remote Desktop Protocol application (RDP) to access the QuickBooks cloud environment. RDP application is commonly used to access applications and resources on a remote server, including QuickBooks hosted on the cloud.
- Once installed, open the ‘Remote Desktop Connection’ Application on your computer.
- A dialog box opens with your username pre-filled; add your credentials and click “OK” to get directed to the cloud server.
- As the cloud workspace opens, double-click on the “QuickBooks” icon on the desktop screen.
- Click on ‘Open or restore an existing company file‘.
This is how you can work on the accounting files available for your business with cloud-hosted QuickBooks.
Benefits of Working on QuickBooks in the Cloud
QuickBooks hosting providers operate advanced data centers with powerful servers optimized for top-notch user experience. Equipped with robust hardware and backup systems, these servers ensure data integrity and availability.
Working with QuickBooks in the cloud offers several advantages:
- Accessibility: Access QuickBooks from anywhere, anytime, ideal for remote teams or those on the move.
- Scalability: Easily scale usage up or down without investing in new hardware or software.
- Security: QuickBooks cloud hosting providers update security measures regularly, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.
- Automatic Backups: Data is backed up automatically, safeguarding your critical financial information.
- Cost Savings: More cost-effective than maintaining in-house servers, eliminating the need for expensive hardware and ongoing maintenance.
- Collaboration: Multiple users can access QuickBooks on cloud simultaneously, facilitating real-time collaboration on financial tasks.
Also Read: Why Businesses Should Use QuickBooks Enterprise for their Accounting?
Is QuickBooks on Cloud the same as QuickBooks Online?
No, QuickBooks Hosted on Cloud involves hosting QuickBooks Desktop on remote servers, providing advanced features, industry-specific tools, and robust reporting options. Users can seamlessly integrate with other software and access QuickBooks from anywhere with an internet connection.
On the other hand, QuickBooks Online, developed by Intuit, is a cloud-native solution designed for simpler accounting needs. While it offers convenience with no installation required, it may lack some advanced features found in QuickBooks Desktop. Therefore, businesses with complex accounting needs may prefer QuickBooks Desktop hosted on cloud for its comprehensive features and capabilities.
Also Read: QuickBooks Online vs Desktop: Which One is Right for You?
Factors to Consider When Choosing a QuickBooks Hosting Provider
For a seamless QuickBooks cloud accounting experience, consider these factors:
- Intuit Authorized: Opt for hosting providers authorized by Intuit to ensure compatibility and reliability.
- Reliability and Uptime: Prioritize providers with dependable uptime and minimal downtime to safeguard your business data.
- Security Measures: Select providers employing industry-standard encryption, physical server security, and regular data backups for enhanced protection.
- Responsive Support: Look for providers offering knowledgeable technical support to promptly address any issues that arise.
- Compatibility: Choose providers supporting multiple QuickBooks versions and editions to adapt to changing software requirements.
- Integration Capabilities: Check if the provider can integrate cloud for QuickBooks with other essential business applications for seamless workflow.
- Scalability: Ensure the provider can accommodate your business’s growth by offering scalable solutions tailored to your evolving needs.
- Transparent Pricing: Look for providers with competitive pricing models and clear information on additional fees to align with your budget and expectations.
These factors will help you find the right QuickBooks hosting provider for your business.
Who Should Consider QuickBooks Cloud Hosting?
Small and Medium-Sized Businesses
QuickBooks cloud hosting is ideal for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) that want to streamline their accounting processes without investing heavily in IT infrastructure. By moving QuickBooks to the cloud, SMBs can access enterprise-grade tools and security while benefiting from the flexibility to scale resources as the business grows.
It’s an efficient way to manage cash flow, payroll, inventory, and other financial tasks while minimizing operational overhead.
CPAs and Accounting Professionals Managing Multiple Clients
CPAs and accounting professionals often handle data from multiple clients, requiring secure and seamless access to QuickBooks company files. Cloud hosting allows them to work collaboratively with their clients in real time, regardless of location.
It also eliminates the need for constant file transfers or version conflicts, ensuring accuracy and productivity. Additionally, hosting providers manage backups and updates, letting accountants focus on their core work without worrying about IT challenges.
Businesses with Remote Teams or Multi-Location Operations
Companies with remote teams or offices in different locations can greatly benefit from QuickBooks cloud hosting. It enables employees to access the same accounting data from anywhere, fostering collaboration and improving workflow efficiency.
Hosted QuickBooks supports real-time updates, so all users can work simultaneously on the same data without delays or duplication errors. This setup is especially valuable for businesses with distributed teams that rely on consistent, secure, and accessible financial systems.
Ace Cloud Hosting: Your Trusted QuickBooks Hosting Provider
Ready to move your QuickBooks Desktop to the cloud? Partner with Ace Cloud Hosting – backed by 15+ years of expertise in transforming businesses globally.
Why Ace Cloud Hosting?
✔ Award-Winning: Recognized as the “Best Outsourced Technology Provider” by CPA Practice Advisors Readers’ Choice Awards.
✔ Trusted: Trusted by accountants, CPAs, and businesses globally for their cloud solutions.
✔ Secure: Partnered with top-tier data centers boasting SSAE-16 Type-II (SOC-2) certification and PCI DSS compliance.
✔ Reliable: Enjoy an impressive 99.99% uptime, ensuring uninterrupted access to your data.
✔ Customized Plans: Tailored pricing plans to suit your strategic objectives.
Try Ace Cloud Hosting FREE for 7 days and witness how cloud hosting can elevate your business. Contact us at +1-855-223-4887 or email [email protected] to learn more.
QuickBooks on Cloud – FAQs
What is QuickBooks on Cloud?
QuickBooks on the cloud, also known as QuickBooks Hosting, is a service that allows you to access and use the QuickBooks accounting software from any internet-enabled device. It combines the power of QuickBooks with the flexibility and accessibility of cloud technology.
How does QuickBooks on Cloud work?
QuickBooks on Cloud works by hosting the QuickBooks software on remote servers provided by a hosting provider. Users can access the software via a secure internet connection, making it easy to manage finances and collaborate with team members, even if they are in different locations.
What are the advantages of using QuickBooks hosting for my business?
QuickBooks hosting offers several benefits, including enhanced accessibility, automatic backups, multi-user collaboration, and scalability. It allows you to work from anywhere, ensures data security, and eliminates the need for on-premises server maintenance.
Is my data safe on the cloud?
Yes, when you choose a reputable QuickBooks hosting provider, your data is secure. They employ robust security measures such as encryption, firewall protection, and regular data backups to keep your financial information safe from unauthorized access and data loss.
Can I use QuickBooks hosting with my existing QuickBooks Desktop license?
Yes, in most cases, you can use your existing QuickBooks Desktop license with QuickBooks on Cloud. Hosting providers typically offer options to host your licensed version, allowing you to retain your familiar software while gaining the advantages of cloud access.
How does multi-user collaboration work with cloud-hosted QuickBooks?
QuickBooks on Cloud enables seamless multi-user collaboration. Team members can access the same QuickBooks file simultaneously, making it easy to work together in real-time. Changes made by one user are instantly reflected for others, fostering efficient teamwork.
Is hosted QuickBooks Cloud suitable for small businesses?
Yes, QuickBooks on Cloud is suitable for businesses of all sizes. Small businesses, in particular, can benefit from its cost-effective scalability, remote access, and data security features. It’s an excellent solution for streamlining financial management processes.
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Comments (1)
Qucikbooks online is yet to develop to deliver a complete accounting solutions, but cloud is now a necessity. Intuit has been trying hard to lure clients for QBO, bur hosting is way more reliable solution.
Finely written article
QBO has its own merits, such as it will always offer the latest features automatically. Hosting Qb on cloud will have the license limitations and all.
For those who are not willing make big move from the usual Quickbooks, hosting is better than QBO.
Most businesses are just obsessed with Qb. Otherwise there are a number of better and reliable cloud based software for accounting available to choose from.
QuickBooks is so critical with the information that it cannot be shared with the usual employees and people comfortable keeping it on a third-party server.
When implemented the right technology, this is one of the biggest advantages of using the third-party server. With the proper encryption, one can ensure that only authorized users are able to access QuickBooks data and even the hosting provider cannot view it. Moreover, you can allow and revoke the access to the different users pretty easily.