Sage 50 is a robust desktop accounting solution enhanced with secure cloud-connected features. While it is not a cloud-hosted application, it offers the flexibility of remote access through its cloud-connected capabilities. Your Sage 50 software and data remain securely stored on your local desktop or server.
You will have online access to the same features as our local desktop version. However, you can access Sage 50 from anywhere with an internet connection—whether you’re using a Mac, tablet, or any other device. Real-time collaboration allows multiple users to work in the system simultaneously, boosting team efficiency. You’ll receive automatic updates and secure hosting, ensuring that you always have the latest features without the hassle of IT maintenance.
❗Sage 50 Hosted is now called Sage 50 “Cloud” Hosted.
Which Sage is Right for You-Sage 50 Local v Hosted Comparison?
*All your users must be on the same option. For example, if you have five users, all five must either be hosted or local. You cannot have two hosted and three local!
**For Security Reasons, you must have Office 365 Premium or Enterprise to use Sage 50 Hosted.
- Product Editions
- Number Of Users
- Remote Access (via Remote Desktop)
- Access to Full Functionality
- Automatic Data Backups
- Add Entries from Mobile or Tablet
- Access from a Tablet
- Access from a Smartphone
- Access from a Web Browser
- Access from Windows OS
- Access from Mac
- Installations & Updates Required
- Access Anytime
- Infrastructure and Server Costs
- Cybersecurity
- Pro/Premium/Quantum
- 1-40
- Via RDA-Remote Data Access (Previously known as Sage Drive, Sage 50c, Sage 50cloud, and Sage Remote Desktop.)See footnote 1 at bottom of webpage to learn about Remote Data Access.
- Only through local network or remote installation.
- *Yes (Requires Microsoft 365)
- No
- No
- No
- No
- Yes
- No
- Requires server installation
- No
- Initial investment in a server based on number of users
- Local antivirus
- Pro/Premium/Quantum
- 1-40
- Via Windows App/Website
- Yes
- Yes (Automatic without Microsoft 365)
- Yes (Full Sage 50 functionality)
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- Server cost included in the Sage 50 price and scalable as needed
- Built-in
Are You Ready to Choose?
Have Questions? Please Call Us: 304-233-2612
FAQ’s
Is Sage Remote Data Access (RDA) the same as hosting?
No. Sage Remote Data Access synchronizes data between computers but does not provide true cloud hosting. RDA still requires a primary server and strong internet connectivity, while Cloud Hosted Sage 50 provides centralized access through a hosted environment.
The Remote Data Access Connector is an optional add-on that synchronizes data among remote users’ PCs, the office computer, and data servers. YOU MUST BE hardwired from a remote location and have excellent internet service at all locations. Each remote user must have a company login and an active Sage 50 license on their PC.
When remote users access data, Sage 50 Accounting downloads a copy of the most recent data to their PC each time they connect. The application then synchronizes data between the office computer or server and the remote users’ PCs. More info
Do all Sage 50 users need to be on the same Desktop or Hosted option?
Yes. All users accessing the same Sage 50 company file must use the same deployment option — either all Desktop or all Hosted — to ensure data integrity and performance.
How does backup and security differ between Desktop and Hosted?
With Desktop, you manage backups and security on your own systems. With Hosted, backups and server security are typically built-in with the hosting provider, reducing risk and manual maintenance.
Which option should my business choose?
The best option depends on how your business operates. Companies needing remote access, multiple locations, or reduced IT management often choose Sage 50 Cloud Hosted. Businesses working from a single office with local infrastructure may prefer Sage 50 Desktop. Contact Best Business Strategies to help evaluate the best solution.
The Best Business Strategies Difference:
- Experienced Certified Consultants
- Competitive Pricing & Price Matching
- 60 Day Money Back Guarantee
- Live BBS Virtual Class “BEG101 – “Get Acquainted with Sage 50 Menus & Features” 🍎 included with purchase.
- After-Sale Service & Support ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- We always answer our phones and are happy to address any small questions you may have about our software.
- We keep you updated on the latest Sage 50 news via our monthly Newsletter.
- We send Sage 50 Renewal Reminders two months before the renewal date.
- We are your partner advocate with Sage and will assist you with any issues you may encounter.
