QuickBooks on the cloud has appeared as the modern solution for accounting professionals, as they can now access their crucial documents from any remote location. While QuickBooks is a highly advanced software for all accounting-related tasks, its only restriction is that it can only be accessed with an on-premises device. However, this restriction is removed with cloud hosting QuickBooks Desktop. In this article, we will give you a thorough overview of how the QB Desktop on the cloud works and what benefits it offers.
What Are QuickBooks on the Cloud?
QuickBooks on the cloud means hosting the entire software on cloud remote servers. As a result of this, the user can easily access the QB from any remote location as long as they have a stable internet connection. Moreover, the resources can also be easily scaled without compromising either performance or security. Speaking of security, QuickBooks on the cloud also follows enterprise-grade security protocols, like firewalls, encryption, and automatic backups. These security tools ensure that the user’s data remains safe and secure from any and all potential threats.
In addition to this, the multi-user mode is also available. This mode allows multiple users to simultaneously use the software without raising any IT alarms. This makes it especially beneficial for multi-location companies, as their team can work from multiple locations at the same time. This helps to enhance collaboration with robust data protection. Furthermore, QuickBooks on the cloud also allows for easy data migration without posing any threats.
Which QuickBooks Version Is The Best?
QuickBooks on the cloud is not a one-stop solution for all accounting-related business needs. Instead, there are multiple QuickBooks versions, along with different licenses, which cater to the needs of unique business requirements. Below, we have shared a detailed comparison between the different versions of the QB software to help you choose the right one for your business, all the while ensuring optimal compatibility with different devices.
Features/Versions | QuickBooks Pro | QuickBooks Premier | QuickBooks Enterprise |
Max number of users. | 3 | 5 | 40 |
Maximum database file size. | 150-200 MB | 150-200 MB | 1 GB |
Industry-specific Features. | None | Yes (Contractor, Nonprofit, Manufacturing & Wholesale, Retail, and Professional Services). | Yes (Contractor, Nonprofit, Manufacturing & Wholesale, Retail, and Professional Services). |
Individual user permission. | Yes | Yes | Yes (with more advanced features and add-ons for remote workforce support). |
Fixed assets management. | No | No | Yes |
Create a business plan. | No | Yes | Yes |
| Create reports with QuickBooks Statement Writer. | No | No | Yes |
Predefined user roles. | No | No | Yes |
Sales forecast. | No | Yes | Yes |
Work on multiple company files simultaneously. | No | Limited to only accountants. | Yes |
Import data from third-party apps, like Microsoft Excel. | Yes | Yes | Yes |
International Sales Tracking. | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Multiple currency expense tracking. | Yes | Yes | Yes |
One-click reports. | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Tracking inventory. | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Inventory management. | Basic tracking only | Basic tracking only | Advanced customization as well as consolidated reporting. |
Support | Standard | Standard | Priority support included. |
Hosted QuickBooks vs QuickBooks Online
| Features | Hosted QuickBooks | QuickBooks Online |
Accessibility | Can be accessed from any web browser with a stable internet connection. | Can be accessed from Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). |
Functionality | Offers a plethora of advanced features like invoicing, expense tracking, and reporting. | Offers all the advanced features of QBD along with the enhanced functionality and customization options of the cloud. |
User interface customization. | Features and user experience are different from the QuickBooks Desktop version. | Additional hosting features are available along with the same QuickBooks Desktop user interface. |
Pricing transparency. | Subscription based models. | Flexible pricing structure, thus eliminating the need for expensive on-premises server infrastructure, resulting in cost savings |
Software installation. | Does not require to install the software as QB can be accessed via the internet. | After the software has been installed on the cloud, it does not require any further installation. |
Multi-user access | Yes | Yes (remote teams can access it through RDP). |
Backup and disaster recovery. | Yes | Yes |
Inventory management. | Available only in higher plans. | Yes |
Proceeding speed | Slower than the QuickBooks Desktop version. | Faster (depending on the server). |
Third-party tools integration. | Yes, offers integration with third-party applications through its App Store to extend its functionality. | Yes, allows for easy third-party tools integration with little to no restrictions. |
QuickBooks Desktop Version vs SaaS Version
Features | QuickBooks Desktop | SaaS Version |
Accessibility | Installed locally on a computer. | Easily accessible from different devices. |
Plan pricing | One-time purchase with optional annual upgrades. | Monthly subscription-based pricing. |
Version updates | Requires manual updates and upgrades. | Automatically updated. |
User access | Depending on valid licenses. | Accessibility from anywhere for multiple users. |
Data storage | Data is stored on the local computer. | Data is stored in secure cloud storages. |
Scalability | Suitable for small businesses and medium-sized businesses. | Suitable for accounting professionals as well as CPAs. |
Customization options | Customization features are limited. | Highly customizable with advanced features. |
| Integration | Limited integration with third-party applications. | Extensive integration capabilities with third-party applications. |
Remote access | Can be accessed remotely with RDP. | Requires to purchase the online QB version for remote access. |
Support responsiveness | Provider support online, community forums, and chats. | Professional phone and email support. |
Uptime guarantees. | 99.99% uptime with reliable cloud servers. | Depends on the internet connection. |
User access. | Multiple users can simultaneously log in. | Depends on the software licenses purchased. |
To Conclude
While QuickBooks on the cloud is a highly reliable solution that you can access from any remote location, there are several factors you need to consider to ensure optimal performance. These factors include choosing a hosting provider and ensuring virtual desktop and cloud infrastructure vitality. By considering these factors and installing the QB software on the cloud, you will be able to ensure that all your operations run with maximum efficiency without making any compromises.
FAQs
What is QuickBooks POS?
QuickBooks POS (Point of Sale) is a management system that is designed to help small to medium-sized businesses effectively process sales, manage inventory, and track customer information.
What is QuickBooks used for?
QuickBooks is a reliable software that is used to manage accounting tasks, like managing finances, tracking income/expenses, invoicing, payroll, and inventory.
Is QuickBooks the best software for accounting tasks?
Yes, QuickBooks is undoubtedly the best software for all accounting-related tasks, as it provides advanced features to automate routine-based operations while assisting with complex tasks.
How does QuickBooks work on the cloud?
The QuickBooks software is installed on a cloud server, which can be remotely accessed from different devices. Through this, a user can access QB from any location without compromising security, performance, or features.
What is the difference between QuickBooks Online and the cloud version?
QuickBooks Online can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, but it is entirely dependent on a stable connection. QuickBooks Cloud, on the other hand, allows access to the more feature-rich desktop versions from anywhere. However, its setup involves working with a third-party hosting provider.
Brown Lopez is a Cloud Engineer and technical writer based in Austin, USA, who enjoys turning complex cloud ideas into clear, simple insights. With solid experience in cloud architecture and real-world projects, he loves creating practical content that helps professionals understand, build, and improve their cloud solutions with confidence.