On-premise vs cloud POS: data ownership compared

The short comparison

• Cloud: the vendor runs the servers; you reach the system through a browser; you usually pay per month per user; internet is required for every action.
• On-premise: the system runs on your computer; you reach it over your local network; you pay for the software and support; internet is optional for daily work.
• Hybrid: on-premise operation with optional cloud sync for reporting or a second location.

Where the data lives

In a cloud POS, the database sits in the vendor's environment. You can usually export reports, but the live system is not something you can copy to a USB drive at closing time. In an on-premise system the database file is on your machine: you can take a copy, keep it after the contract ends, and hand it to an accountant without asking permission.

That is the real difference behind the word "ownership" — not pride, but exit. Ask each vendor: what exactly do I get if I leave, and how long does it take?

Outages and internet quality

Cloud systems depend on the connection between your counter and the vendor's servers. On-premise systems depend on your local network and power. Neither is magic, but the failure modes are different: a cloud outage is outside your control; a local issue is something you can see, test and fix.

If your area has frequent outages, test a demo under those conditions before signing. Unplug the internet and try to complete a sale.

Cost over time

Cloud pricing is usually predictable per month, and the vendor handles servers, backups and upgrades. On-premise pricing often has a setup cost and a monthly platform/support fee, and you own the hardware and the database. Compare three years, not the first invoice: hardware, UPS, support, migration and the cost of leaving all belong in the comparison.

Backups and responsibility

In the cloud, backups are the vendor's job — check the retention and restore process anyway. On-premise, backups are shared: the software can automate them, but someone has to verify that a restore works. A backup you have never restored is a hope, not a backup.

When on-premise fits

• The internet is unreliable, or the shop cannot stop when it fails.
• You want the database file in your own hands, and a clean exit path.
• You already have a computer and a local network that can host the system.
• You prefer a fixed setup plus support over per-user subscriptions.

When cloud fits

• The team works from several cities and needs one live dashboard.
• You do not want to maintain a server, UPS or backups.
• Internet is reliable and the vendor's uptime is proven.
• Per-user monthly pricing suits your cash flow better than setup costs.

Questions to ask either vendor

• What still works when the internet is down?
• Where is the database, and can I get a full copy?
• How are backups taken, kept and restored — and who tests restores?
• What happens to my data and access if I stop paying?
• What does support cost after year one?

How EBS fits

EBS is on-premise by default, with remote deployment and support. The security overview explains the architecture, pricing shows list prices, and live demos let you try the interface with sample data.

Frequently asked

Is on-premise more expensive than cloud?

It depends on hardware, support and how long you keep the system. Compare three-year totals, including migration and the cost of leaving, rather than the first monthly invoice.

Can we access an on-premise system from another city?

Daily operations run on the local network. Remote access is possible when configured, but it is a separate decision from offline-first operation.

Who is responsible for backups?

With EBS, backups are automated and the database file is yours; verifying restores is a joint responsibility agreed in the Service Agreement.