Software vs. Hardware Cons & Pros
There is not one answer to fit every company at every stage of growth. Each company’s choice must be based on, among other things, company size, the need for control and flexibility, and security needs. In the SMB market, however, the benefits of a software installation will generally outweigh those for an appliance throughout the company’s life cycle.
Benefits of a using a Software Approach
- Most packages designed for small to medium sized businesses are specifically created to be easy to install, configure and use
- Pricing is reasonable and return on investment is often immediate (eg. for mail archiving; spam; anti-virus, etceteras)
- Administrator has full control over how the software is implemented
- Software can be customized and tweaked
- Greater control over updates and patches and the ability to pre-test patches
- Software can reside on existing hardware, saving money
- Software can be easily reinstalled; data recovered from backup if system fails
Downside of using a Software Approach
- Multiple packages can be a headache to maintain and update
- IT personnel are required to maintain network
- Some systems require in-depth technical knowledge, a specialist is needed
- In the absence of IT personnel, the cost of external IT support comes into play
Benefits of using an Appliance Approach
- Complexity of operation is eliminated; runs on its own with minimal intervention
- Easier management in the absence of an IT team
- Vendor can provide install, configuration and maintenance support as part of purchase
- Avoid thorny problems that span multiple vendor products
- Simplified infrastructure
Downside of using an Appliance Approach
- Cost may be prohibitive for small companies
- The one-box approach may pose an overall security risk
- Might not make the most efficient configuration for every user
- Potential for a disastrous single point of failure
- If the appliance fails, company is down until a replacement arrives
- Appliances could pose a disaster recovery hazard
- Does not give any flexibility to the IT administrator
- In some cases takes longer to install
The issues here are complex and the final decision depends upon the needs of the company in terms of control, flexibility and pricing, as well as company size. In the small to medium sized business market, however, the software approach is generally a better value for cost, by comparison; faster return on investment; less dependency on a single point of failure hardware solution; and greater control for customization of network resources.