Cloud computing
Move to the cloud with a plan, not a leap
The cloud promises work-from-anywhere, no more ageing server and costs that scale with you, and it can deliver all three. It can also deliver surprise bills and files nobody can find. We plan each move around your applications, your data and your budget, then run it so your team barely notices the change.
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What moves where
The right home for each part of your IT
Cloud isn’t one thing. Email and documents usually belong in Microsoft 365. Some line-of-business software has its own cloud version worth switching to. A few applications still need a server, which can be hosted in Microsoft Azure or kept on-site and managed properly. We work through each system and pick the best option on its merits.
Options
Three common paths for small businesses
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All-in on Microsoft 365
Email, files, Teams and phones in Microsoft 365, with no server at all. Ideal where your key apps are already cloud-based.
- Lowest maintenance
- Work from anywhere
- Predictable per-user cost
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Hybrid
Microsoft 365 for files and email, plus a hosted server in Azure for the one application that needs Windows Server.
- No hardware on site
- Keeps legacy apps running
- Scales up or down
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Managed on-site server
Sometimes the right answer, for large files, specialist software or poor connectivity, with cloud backup and remote access.
- Fast local access
- Cloud-backed
- Planned replacement cycle
Migration
How a cloud migration runs
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Step 1
Discover
Every system, file share, application and dependency mapped, including the ones nobody remembers.
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Step 2
Design
Target structure, security baseline, licensing and a running-cost forecast you sign off.
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Step 3
Migrate in phases
Email, then files, then apps, each moved and checked before the next begins.
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Step 4
Train
Short, practical sessions so everyone knows where things live now.
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Step 5
Decommission
Old hardware wiped securely and retired, and costs reviewed after the first month.
FAQ
Cloud computing questions
Can’t see your question? Call 01843 482 279 or email hello@squareoneit.co.uk. You’ll get a straight answer from an engineer.
Will moving to the cloud save money?
Often, but not always. You swap buying hardware every few years for a monthly cost, and avoid the risk of a failed server. We forecast the running costs before you decide, so the numbers are clear either way.
What happens if our internet goes down?
Files synced to laptops remain available offline, and a backup 4G/5G connection keeps you working through most outages. For businesses entirely dependent on the cloud, we always recommend one.
Is our data safe in the cloud?
Microsoft’s data centres are extremely well protected. The risks are in configuration and access, which is why every migration includes MFA, conditional access, sensible sharing and an independent backup.
Can our accounts software move to the cloud?
Many packages now have cloud versions, which is usually the best route. Where they don’t, a hosted server in Azure can run them with secure remote access.
Is your server due for replacement?
Before you buy new hardware, talk to us. We’ll compare the cloud and on-site options side by side, with honest running costs for each.
- Call the team01843 482 279
- Emailhello@squareoneit.co.uk
- VisitKent Innovation Centre, Thanet Reach Business Park, Broadstairs CT10 2QQ
- Helpdesk hoursMonday to Friday, 9am – 5pm