Sage 50 Desktop vs Sage 50 Cloud – What’s the Difference?

Making the switch from desktop to cloud-based accounting can be a daunting task. Businesses want to make sure they’re making the right decision rather than just jumping on the latest trend. So, what’s the difference between Sage 50 Desktop and Sage 50 Cloud? In this blog post, we’ll break it down for you. 

Specifically, we’ll compare and contrast the two versions of Sage 50 based on five factors: Scalability, accessibility, collaboration, data security, and software updates. By understanding the differences between these two versions of Sage 50, you’ll be in a better position to decide which is best for your business. 

Sage 50 Desktop vs. Sage 50 Cloud

There are two main versions of Sage 50 – Sage 50 Desktop and Sage 50 Cloud. Sage 50 Desktop is the traditional on-premises software version, while Sage 50 Cloud is a newer cloud-based option. Both versions offer the same core accounting functionality, but some key differences exist between them. 

Here’s a look at some factors which differentiates the two versions of the accounting software:  

Scalability

One of the key differences between Sage 50 Cloud and Sage 50 Desktop is that Sage 50 Cloud is much easier to scale than Sage 50 Desktop. Businesses using Sage 50 Desktop and wanting to add more users require them to install additional licenses and set up additional servers. Sage 50 Cloud enables them to add more users as needed – no need to install anything additional. All they need to do is convey their requirements to the Sage cloud hosting provider, and they will do the rest. 

Remote Access

Another critical difference between Sage 50 Cloud and the desktop version is that users can access Sage 50 Cloud remotely. In a Sage 50 Desktop setup, businesses need to set up VPNs or other remote access solutions to access the software remotely. They can access Sage 50 Cloud using their preferred devices to eliminate this hassle. 

By ensuring a reliable internet connection and a subscription to the appropriate Sage 50 hosting plan, users can use their preferred devices to access the software from anywhere, anytime. 

Recommended Reading: How to Access Sage 50 Remotely

Team Collaboration

Sage 50 Cloud is a hosted solution meaning that the software and data are stored off-site on remote servers instead of locally on computers like the Sage 50 desktop software. This has several advantages when it comes to team collaboration. First, since data is stored off-site, users can access it from anywhere with an internet connection. This makes it much easier for team members to work together on projects, as they can access the same information regardless of geographical location.

Data Security

Sage 50cloud offers enhanced security features compared to Sage 50 desktop. Data stored on remote servers of cloud hosting providers are highly secure. Users can also set up user permissions so that only certain team members can access certain information. This helps them to protect confidential data and prevent unauthorized access.

Reputed cloud hosting providers to top-notch data security mechanisms, such as: 

• 256-bit data encryption 
• Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPs) 
• Multi-level firewall 
• Two-factor authentication
• Antivirus and Antimalware 

ACE Sage Application Services also offers customers customizable pricing and a pay-as-you-go model. Sage Hosting Pricing | Ace Cloud Hosting

Software Updates 

Sage 50cloud is updated automatically, so users always have the latest features and security updates. Sage 50 desktop requires users to manually install updates which can be time-consuming and disruptive to workflows. 

Some Unique Advantages of Sage 50 Cloud 

Software Installation 

Using Sage 50 Desktop requires users to install the software on a local computer, meaning they’ll need to maintain their server infrastructure. This can be costly and time-consuming, but it gives more data control. 

On the other hand, a Sage hosting provider hosts Sage 50 on the cloud. Sage 50 Cloud eliminates the requirement of setting up physical space or hiring in-house IT professionals as businesses get round-the-clock IT support from their Sage 50 hosting provider. 

Remote Invoicing 

Unlike Sage 50 Desktop, Sage 50 Cloud enables businesses to engage in remote invoicing. Organizations with sales representatives working off-site can use the Sage 50 cloud to generate invoices while on the move. Additionally, they can include a Sage Pay Now link to the invoices that enables their customers to pay instantly using PayPal/Credit/Debit cards – a significant way to make sure of uninterrupted cash flow. 

Data Backup 

Sage 50 hosting helps users with automated data backup in multiple ways: 

• Sage 50 stores all business data in the cloud, so businesses don’t have to worry about losing critical information. 
• Sage 50 on the cloud automatically backs up data regularly, so businesses always have a recent copy available if they need to restore any lost data. 
• Hosted Sage 50’s built-in disaster recovery capabilities ensure that data is safe even if something happens to the Sage 50 servers. 

In short, Sage 50’s cloud-based approach to data storage and backup provides businesses with peace of mind knowing that their critical information is always safe and accessible. 

Features of Sage 50 Desktop and Sage 50 Cloud 

 Final Note So, which version of Sage 50 is suitable for businesses? It depends on their individual needs. If you’re looking for flexibility and ease of use, Sage 50 Cloud is the best option. If you’re looking for more control over your data, Sage 50 Desktop might be a better fit. Ultimately, it’s crucial to weigh each option’s pros and cons before deciding. 

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