Dynamics 365 Business Central can be implemented in a local (on-premises) model, in a cloud (SaaS) model and in a hybrid model. In this article, we briefly present implementation models and present the advantages of implementing the system in a hybrid model.
Types of implementation
On-premises installation is the purchase of a perpetual license. This type of purchase comes with a slightly larger initial fee. The advantages of such a solution are complete control over updates and the possibility of using your own existing server infrastructure.
The cloud model (SaaS) is a modern approach that consists in paying a permanent subscription that provides access to the application without the need to incur additional costs for infrastructure maintenance. Thanks to the use of the Azure cloud, such a solution is characterized by high reliability (SLA 99.9%). Moreover, it should be noted that using Business Central in the SaaS version provides easier access to other cloud services. Another significant advantage is the extremely simplified update process.
The hybrid model is the installation of Business Central in an external Data Center, which is managed by a Microsoft partner (e.g. by EIP Dynamics) or a selected company specializing in hosting services.
Why is it worth using a hybrid model?
Many companies cannot take advantage of SaaS implementation due to legal data retention requirements. In such a situation, a local installation or an alternative such as a hybrid model is necessary. Hybrid enables local data storage while fully using the potential of the application working in the cloud.
Importantly, the hybrid model allows you to reduce the expenditure on infrastructure and all obligations resulting from the need to manage the infrastructure, because these tasks are entirely the responsibility of the external Data Center.
The hybrid system allows you to enjoy access to cloud services included in the Power Platform, which are known from the SaaS model. Examples of available applications include Office 365, Power Bi, Power Apps, and Microsoft Flow.
In summary, the hybrid model is a flexible solution that allows you to combine the features of a “traditional” local on-premise implementation with the potential of the cloud. This type of implementation is necessary for some companies with strictly defined legal regulations.