QuickBooks is a popular accounting software used by small businesses. The software offers many features, including invoicing, tracking expenses, and managing inventory. While QuickBooks can be installed on a local computer, it can also be hosted in the cloud.
Hosting QuickBooks in the cloud has many benefits, including increased flexibility and security. Here’s a step-by-step guide on easily hosting QuickBooks in the cloud.
What is QuickBooks and Why Should You Use It?
QuickBooks is a popular accounting software that helps small businesses manage their finances. The software is designed to be user-friendly and offers various features that can save businesses time and money. QuickBooks can track sales and expenses, generate reports, and even handle payroll.
In addition, the software integrates with other business applications, making it a valuable tool for businesses of all sizes. While QuickBooks is not required for all businesses, it can be a helpful tool for managing finances and streamlining accounting processes.
The Benefits of Hosting QuickBooks in the Cloud
QuickBooks is a popular accounting software used by small businesses and entrepreneurs. It allows users to track income and expenses, create invoices and estimates, and manage payroll.
Flexibility and Accessibility
One of the significant advantages of hosting QuickBooks in the cloud is increased flexibility and accessibility. With cloud hosting, QuickBooks can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. This allows for easy collaboration and sharing among team members and the ability to work remotely.
In addition, cloud hosting provides enhanced security measures, reducing the risk of data loss or breaches.
Improved Security
Another benefit of hosting QuickBooks in the cloud is improved security.
Local servers are often not equipped with the same level of security as cloud servers. By storing QuickBooks in the cloud, businesses can be assured that their data is safe and secure. In addition, businesses that host QuickBooks in the cloud can take advantage of additional security features, such as two-factor authentication and multi-layered security.
Two-factor authentication is an important security measure that requires users to provide two forms of identification when logging into a system. This usually includes something that the user knows, such as a password, and something that the user has, such as a code generated by a mobile app.
By requiring two forms of identification, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to their systems.
Multi-layered security is another crucial security measure that can help protect businesses from cyber-attacks. With multi-layered security, businesses can implement multiple layers of defense, each of which must be breached before an attacker can access sensitive data.
Using multiple layers of defense, businesses can make it much more difficult for attackers to access their systems.
How to Easily Host QuickBooks in the Cloud?
Once you’ve decided to use QuickBooks for your business, the next step is deciding how to host it. While QuickBooks can be installed on a local computer, hosting it in the cloud offers increased flexibility and security.
Step 1: Choose a Cloud Hosting Provider
There are many cloud hosting providers to choose from, so it’s essential to do your research before selecting one to find the best QuickBooks cloud hosting provider. You may want to consider price, features, and customer support. Once you’ve chosen a provider, sign up for an account.
Price
Price is one of the first factors you’ll want to consider when choosing a cloud hosting provider. Hosting providers typically charge a monthly fee, so you’ll want to compare prices before deciding. Remember that some providers offer discounts for longer-term contracts, so ask about that.
It’s also important to consider what’s included in the price. Some providers charge extra for things like data backups and 24/7 customer support. Read the fine print to know exactly what you’re paying for.
Features
Another factor to consider is features. Different providers offer different features, so it’s essential to find one that offers the specific features you’re looking for.
For example, if you’re looking for automatic data backup, find a provider that offers that service. You’ll also want to ensure that the provider provides enough storage space for your QuickBooks data. The last thing you want is to run out of space and have to upgrade your plan mid-month.
Customer Support
Another important factor is customer support. You’ll want to find a provider that offers 24/7 customer support if you have problems with your account. You should also look for a provider that has a knowledge base or FAQ section on their website so you can quickly troubleshoot any issues yourself.
Step 2: Set Up Your Account
After you’ve signed up for an account with your chosen cloud hosting provider, you’ll need to set up your account. This typically involves entering your contact information and billing information. Once your account is set up, you’re ready to install QuickBooks.
Enter Your Contact Information
When you first sign up for an account with a cloud hosting provider, you’ll be asked to enter your contact information. This includes your name, email address, and phone number.
Once you’ve entered your contact information, you’ll be able to create a username and password for your account. Be sure to choose a strong password with a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
Billing Information
Once you’ve entered your contact information, you’ll need to enter your billing information. This includes your credit card number and expiration date. Many cloud hosting providers also require that you enter a billing address and phone number.
After you’ve entered all of the necessary billing information, you’ll be able to review and confirm your subscription details.
Choose Your Subscription Plan
Once you’ve reviewed and confirmed your subscription details, you’ll need to choose your subscription plan. Most cloud hosting providers offer multiple subscription plans, so choose the one that best meets your needs.
For example, if you have a large team using QuickBooks, you’ll want to choose a plan with unlimited users. After you’ve selected a subscription plan, you’re ready to install QuickBooks!
Step 3: Install QuickBooks
Installing QuickBooks is a straightforward process. Simply log into your account with your cloud hosting provider and follow the instructions provided by QuickBooks. Once QuickBooks is installed, you’re ready to start using it!
Conclusion
Hosting QuickBooks in the cloud has many benefits, including increased flexibility and security. Following the steps outlined above, you can easily host QuickBooks in the cloud with little to no hassle.
Also Read: The Different Types of Cloud Computing Explained
