Shouldn’t I just get a Cloud server?

It’s all the rage so why not? Well, when considering getting a cloud server, it needs careful deliberation of how you operate your business.

FAQ · Getting a Cloud Server

Getting a cloud server means provisioning a virtual machine on a platform such as Microsoft Azure instead of buying physical hardware, so a business pays for computing capacity as a service rather than owning and maintaining a server on-site.

For most British Virgin Islands businesses, the question is rarely 'do we get a cloud server' in isolation — it is whether the workload in question needs a server at all, given how much everyday work already runs through Microsoft 365.

What deciding to get a cloud server actually involves

Before provisioning anything, identify what the server needs to run: a specific application, a database, file storage that Microsoft 365 does not suit, or a virtual desktop for remote staff. That workload determines the size, region and configuration of the cloud server, and whether a server is even the right tool.

A cloud server is normally provisioned on Microsoft Azure, sized against measured usage, secured through Microsoft Entra ID and multi-factor authentication, and set up with monitoring and budget alerts before it goes into production. Ongoing management — patching, backup, monitoring and cost review — is what actually determines whether a cloud server is worth its cost over time.

When a cloud server is the right choice

You are replacing an ageing on-premises server and do not want to buy like-for-like hardware.
You run a specific application or database that Microsoft 365 cannot host.
You need staff to access a full Windows desktop remotely, not just files and email.
You want disaster recovery capacity for an existing server without duplicating hardware off-island.

Where to get a straight answer

Fresh Mango Technologies assesses the actual workload before recommending a cloud server, an on-premises server, or continuing with Microsoft 365 alone. Full detail on how this decision is made sits on our physical, virtual and cloud servers guide, and full detail on Azure specifically — cost, security, when to use it — sits on our Microsoft Azure page.

Frequently asked questions

How do I actually get a cloud server for my business?

Start with an assessment of what the server needs to run, then provision a sized virtual machine on a platform such as Microsoft Azure, configure identity and security through Microsoft Entra ID, and put monitoring, backup and budget alerts in place before going live. Fresh Mango handles this assessment and setup as a managed service.

How much does getting a cloud server cost?

Cost depends on the virtual machine size, storage and hours it runs, billed as ongoing consumption rather than a one-off purchase. There is no fixed answer without sizing the actual workload — see the Microsoft Azure page for how cost is typically structured.

Do I need a cloud server if I already use Microsoft 365?

Not usually, for everyday work — Microsoft 365 already covers email, files and collaboration. A cloud server becomes necessary for a specific workload Microsoft 365 cannot host, such as a legacy application, a database or a virtual desktop.

How long does it take to set up a cloud server?

A straightforward virtual machine can be provisioned within days once the workload and sizing are agreed; migrating an existing application onto it can take longer depending on complexity. An assessment up front avoids delays caused by discovering compatibility issues after the move has started.

Related services and guides

Practical advice, no obligation

Get a straight answer before you provision anything

Book a free 30-minute consultation and get a clear recommendation on whether a cloud server, an on-premises server, or Microsoft 365 alone fits your actual workload.

Book Your Free 30-Minute Consultation

It’s all the rage so why not? Well, when considering a cloud server, it needs careful deliberation of how you operate your business. You need to consider:

Speed and reliability of your internet connection. Bandwidth too - if a lot of people are accessing the cloud system simultaneously, productivity will be dramatically impacted
Organisations - How will your files and folders be organised, who will have access, how backups are potentially handled, etc
Cyber Security - In the event of a cyber attack, a physical server on your premises can be unplugged from the internet. A cloud server cannot
Cost - A physical server has a one-off cost and needs to be replaced every few years; what are your comparable cloud server costs over the same period?