Network

The software needs a networking infrastructure to run and be accessible. Basic components are servers, domain controllers, backups, firewalls, or routers. This is not part of the development process but the cost could impact the project cost, let’s take a moment to talk about it.

Do I need a network for a custom software?

Do I need a network?

Yes.
If you already have a network and/or hosting provider (Azure, GoDaddy, HostGator, etc.), is probably that the software can be integrated without extra cost. But if you don't have one, we will have to start the plan to develop it locally or in the cloud. Depending on your security requirements and the software size, the initial setup can go from $0.00 to $10,000.00 and the annual estimated cost can go from $0.00 to $1,000.00.

Local or cloud?

This depends on the customers, business owners sometimes prefer to have everything local and have control of all the details. If this is your case, definite local is the best solution for you.

Local

It means the application will be hosted in a server on-premise. If the application needs to be accessed from anywhere, adding a network firewall is highly recommended for security reasons (you might already have one). If you already have a server on your local network, most of the time the application can also be installed there, which means you won't have an initial setup or annual cost ☺️. If you don't have a server, a hardware purchase is necessary. A backup and recovery plan for the server is highly recommended, otherwise, if the server crashes the app will be down and all data can be lost.

Cloud

The application will be hosted in a hosting provider such as Azure, Amazon WS, Google, GoDaddy, Hostgator, or BlueHost. By default, most apps hosted in the cloud can be accessed from anywhere. Depending on your business compliance requirement, you can choose an estimated plan from $240.00 to $3,000.00 per year, but If your company already has a website there is a high chance you won't have an initial setup or annual cost ☺️—no hardware needed.

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