On-Premises Exchange vs. Office 365 has been a common trend in recent times. While both Email-Server platforms are good, there are key strengths and weaknesses to each that might make or break a business if the wrong one is used. Because of this, it’s always good to get all the information you’ll need to make an informed choice.
Choosing which Email-Server platform to use, Microsoft Office vs. On-Premises Exchange, is ultimately a personal decision. This article aims only to present the facts to provide you with all the details you need to make the best possible choice for yourself and your business.
Let’s get right into it then, shall we?
On-Premises Exchange Vs Microsoft 365
As the name implies, On-Premises Exchange is simply keeping the Server(s) required for Exchange within the company—that is, on its premises.
Simple right?
This is a fairly common practice amongst businesses, but it requires that the business purchase a client access license and procure the necessary hardware needed for the installed Exchange.
Microsoft 365, on the other hand, is cloud-based software available in several varieties. The service can be run over a monthly subscription and access the specified package that suits them, like Office 365 Home, Office 365 Education, and others.
Its number of variants and its availability on the cloud are some of the reasons why it is considered the better Email-Server platform; however, like On-premises Exchange, it has some drawbacks to balance out its merits.
Benefits And Drawbacks Of Microsoft 365 And On-Premises Exchange
Pros of On-Premise Exchange
Here are some advantages to On-Premises Exchange:
- It grants full control over the Exchange, allowing setting configuration to the user’s specifications and wants. This allows the company to manage mailboxes and others more easily.
- Exchange Data is fully in your control at all times.
- Having the Exchange on-site helps when integrating external systems compatible with Microsoft Exchange, like File-Smart and others.
- The business can control the time for server updates, re-starts, and back-ups and conduct these at a more convenient time than would otherwise have been possible.
Cons of On-Premise Exchange
Some drawbacks to having On-site Exchange
- Since the Exchange is on the premises directly, hardware maintenance and other issues become the responsibility of the business.
- It costs a small fortune to purchase the necessary licensing and corresponding hardware and software.
- Additional IT skills will be required to support the Exchange Server properly.
Strengths of Microsoft 365
Here are some reasons why people prefer to buy Microsoft’s latest version
- Microsoft 365 offers several packaged solutions, including Exchange, Lync, and SharePoint.
- Microsoft 365 comes with the latest Microsoft Office License, saving a fortune in having to purchase it.
- As cloud software, the service is available anywhere with an internet connection.
- No End User Maintenance is required, unlike in On-Premises Exchange.
Drawbacks of Microsoft 365
There are some risks to the use of Microsoft 365
- Exchange Data is stored in a Microsoft-approved location, limiting control over it.
- It might be challenging to integrate Server installed applications when using Microsoft 365
- A monthly subscription might be costlier than a one-off payment when viewed in the long term.
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There is no doubt that Microsoft 365 and On-Premises Exchange have merits and demerits. However, deciding which one to go for can be based ultimately on personal preference and business compatibility.
For any questions or inquiries you might have about either Email-Server Platforms, their installation, or their functions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Tech Solutions Worldwide. Regardless of your size, whether you are a small, medium, or enterprise-sized company, we make sure to exceed your expectations and meet your needs.