Tired of identity management headaches?
Tired of identity management headaches?
The main difference between an On-Premise platform or software and a Cloud one is where it is hosted. While On-Premise software is the traditional way to operate a program within an organization—installed on the company’s own servers—Cloud software, often referred to (though not exactly the same) as “Software as a Service” (SaaS), is hosted on third-party servers and accessed via the internet.
In terms of effectiveness, Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions—used to define an organization’s digital identities and control how and to which resources they have access—are equally secure and efficient. What matters is choosing the right option for your organization.
Below, we compare both models to better understand what each one entails. Both have their advantages, and the choice between On-Premise or Cloud depends solely on your organization’s infrastructure needs and security preferences.
On-Premise and Cloud refer to how you manage and operate your IAM platform. For the end user, there’s barely any visible difference. Soffid’s IAM solutions are offered in modular format, adaptable to the structure and characteristics of any organization. What changes is the infrastructure from which the services are delivered.
On-Premise software is installed on-site, using the infrastructure available to the organization. If the company has multiple locations, the IAM system must be deployed in each one. All hardware, software, and data storage are managed internally by the company.
With On-Premise software, the company acquires a license or copy of the program and owns it—nothing is shared in any external environment.
Cloud computing allows access to various services via the internet—think of popular examples like content streaming. The cloud may be public, managed by an external provider, or private, shared within a single organization.
A Cloud service is known for its flexibility, multi-user, cross-platform access, and on-demand nature. No specialist is needed to run it—just an internet connection.
Software as a Service (SaaS) is a subset of cloud computing that leverages cloud infrastructure to deliver a complete service. Typically via a subscription, users access the full IT infrastructure and associated platforms.
As mentioned, the primary difference lies in where the IAM software is implemented. On-Premise solutions are deployed within the organization and require dedicated resources, physical space, and energy consumption to manage and maintain all associated processes. In contrast, cloud servers are remote and accessible online.
This also impacts cost: On-Premise solutions tend to be more expensive, while Cloud solutions are pay-as-you-go with no maintenance or storage costs.
On-Premise solutions provide greater control over data and the devices accessing it, making this model preferable in highly sensitive sectors like finance or healthcare. While cloud-based IAM systems can be just as secure, the use of third-party services introduces more complexity when handling sensitive data.
Because of this, sectors requiring enhanced security—such as government or financial institutions—often choose On-Premise solutions, even with higher investment. Still, today’s cloud data centers offer high levels of security, sometimes more than smaller businesses can afford to implement on their own. For some organizations, storing data in the cloud may be safer than using poorly protected local servers.
Compliance is another key differentiator. With more control, On-Premise IAM solutions can be more easily aligned with specific legal requirements or company policies. In highly regulated industries like healthcare or education, this may be a competitive advantage compared to Cloud software, where more third parties are involved.
When deciding between On-Premise and Cloud for your IAM solution, the nature of your organization is key. Consider the industry, your company’s structure, and your infrastructure and security priorities.
If your organization has a strong in-house technical team and high security demands, On-Premise is the better fit. However, if you’re a startup, a distributed organization, or follow a cloud-first strategy (prioritizing cloud-native applications), a Cloud IAM solution is ideal for secure and efficient development.
Cloud or On-Premise? You choose.
Soffid IAM adapts to your needs, keeping your identities always under control.
Start enjoying the benefits of a seamless and efficient IAM solution today.
Ready to simplify the complex?
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