Cloud Computing

Cloud computing — the process of delivering computing as a service rather than a product — has changed the face of modern-day computing infrastructures. Both businesses and consumers alike now use the power of the cloud to improve efficiency and protect against data loss. While cloud computing has just recently picked up momentum in terms of mainstream use, the technology has been around for quite some time. This week, we’re going to take a look back at the history of cloud computing, revealing its origins and where it’s headed.

Did you know that the concept of cloud computing dates back to the 1950s? While no one knows who exactly is responsible for coining the term “cloud computing,” the concept was first seen in the 50s, when mainframe computers were used as computing hubs for client and terminal computers. The client and terminal computers did not, however, feature processors; therefore, they relied on the computing power of the mainframe units. Although rudimentary at the time, this was essentially a barebones cloud computing setup.

Fast forward to the 1960s, computer scientist John McCarthy discussed the possibility of computers be organized and used as a “public utility.” McCarthy had the bold idea of setting up a large infrastructure in which computing power could be sold as a utility, such as electricity, gas, water, etc. This idea remains on the forefront of the computing world through the 60s, 70s and 80s, but it ultimately faded into the abyss as demand for this technology died. Although McCarthy’s idea ultimately ceased to take shape, it laid the groundwork for modern-day cloud computing.

It wasn’t until the 1990s when cloud computing began to peak its head into mainstream use. Telecommunications companies during this era began to offer customers Virtual Private Network (VPN) services, which were basically private networks set up within a public network (often used for privacy reasons). VPNs are essentially a form of cloud computing since the user is routed through a network within a network.

Computer hardware manufacturers began to embrace the use of cloud computing by optimizing components for faster speeds and greater efficiency. Today, thousands of services and programs leverage the power of cloud computing. It’s an otherwise simple concept that reduces computing power waste by sending resources to connected clients. Hosted Quickbooks is one such example of cloud technology, in which third-party servers perform the computing remotely while the client simply logs in to perform his or her accounting.

Why Businesses Should Embrace Cloud Computing

July 15, 2014

Cloud computing is a term that’s become all-too familiar in today’s ever-connected world of digital technology. From next-gen video game consoles like the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 to software applications and programs, cloud computing is everywhere you look. Even in the midst of this newfound popularity, however, many people are left scratching their head as they try to understand what exactly it is.

The short definition of cloud computing — which is also the easiest to understand — is that it’s computing power offered as a service rather than physical hardware. In other words, it features a central hub of high-end computers and/or servers that perform the computing operations of connected users. The “cloud” refers to this hub, which is usually compatible with a variety of different devices (desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc.).

There are several different reasons why businesses should embrace cloud computing technology, one of which is ease of maintenance. Cloud computing applications and programs are easier to maintain since they are only installed on the central hub (AKA the cloud). When an update is required, the operator must only perform maintenance on the cloud as opposed to updating hundreds or even thousands of client devices. This alone is reason enough for many businesses to invest in a cloud-based network solution.

Cloud computing is typically a more cost-effective approach to setting up an infrastructure. The resources are allocated more efficiently to prevent waste. Costs of cloud computing are also lowered since there’s less maintenance required, a benefit we previously discussed.

But the benefits of cloud computing for businesses don’t end there. Another reason why so many businesses prefer this type of setup is because it provides greater security. With everything stored on a central hub, there’s less risk for malicious attacks. IT teams can easily set up firewalls and perform regular security maintenance to prevent against malicious attacks.

Arguably, the greatest benefit of all is the simple fact that users can log into the cloud from a variety of different computers and devices. Assuming they have the proper login credentials to the cloud, users can access it from any connected to device. If an employee is vacationing out of state and needs to access his or her files to make an emergency change, they can do so by logging into the cloud from an internet-connected computer or device.

Did we leave out any other benefits of cloud computing for businesses? Let us know in the comments section below!

5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Hosted Quickbooks

June 24, 2014

The Intuit Commercial Hosting Program allows authorized third-party vendors, such as MyVao, to install desktop versions of Quickbooks for clients to access and use. Rather than downloading and installing Quickbooks on their own computers, clients can install it on a server maintained by a participating vendor.

You might be wondering what (if any) advantages there are to using Hosted Quickbooks. Here, we’re going to discuss 5 reasons why you should choose Hosted Quickbooks over non-hosted.

#1) Access Quickbooks Anytime, Anywhere

One of the most notable benefits of Hosted Quickbooks is the ability for clients to access it anywhere, anytime. Normally, desktop versions of Quickbooks are limited to a single computer or device, and if the user isn’t around this device, he or she won’t be able to access it. Hosted Quickbooks, on the other hand, is installed on the cloud, allowing users to access it from any Internet-enabled computer or device.

#2) Extra Layer of Support

With Hosted Quickbooks, clients receive two layers of support: through Intuit and the third-party vendor. Should you ever find yourself in need of assistance, whether it’s setting up your account, performing maintenance, or any other task, you’ll have more options to choose from with Hosted Quickbooks.

#3) Automated Backups

Hosted Quickbooks perform automatic backups on a regular basis, protecting clients’ data from hardware and/or software failures. It’s disheartening for clients to see all of their hard work go down the drain due to a server crash. Thankfully, this isn’t a problem with Hosted Quickbooks, as client files are automatically backed up. Should the server ever fail, clients can rest assured knowing there’s a backup copy ready to be re-uploaded to the server.

#4) No Onsite Server Costs

Maintaining servers is neither cheap nor easy, but Hosted Quickbooks takes this burden off your shoulders by storing files on remote servers. This ultimately cuts down on server maintenance costs, time, and energy, allowing users to focus more on building and expanding their business rather than maintaining a server.

#5) Ease of Use

The sheer simplicity and ease of use associated with Hosted Quickbooks is an attractive feature that draws many users to choose it over non-hosted versions of Quickbooks. The only required program to access Hosted Quickbooks is secure virtual desktop connection — and an active Internet conenction, of course. Users can log in and access their desktop Quickbooks from any computer or device with an Internet-enabled virtual desktop connection.

Requirements For Intuit’s Commercial Hosting Program

April 16, 2014

The Intuit Commercial Hosting Program is a program which allows legally authorized and accredited third-party companies, such as MyVao, to host desktop versions of Quickbooks for clients. Not to be confused with Quickbooks Online, this program is designed strictly for Quickbooks Pro, Premier, Enterprise, Accountant and Point of Sale, all of which are designed for desktop use. Once a client signs up for the service through an accredited third-party company, he or she accesses Quickbooks through a remote terminal connection.

Being that desktop versions of Quickbooks can be installed and ran on traditional desktop and laptop computers, you might be wondering why customers would choose to sign up for the Intuit Commercial Hosting Program. Well, there are numerous benefits and features in the Intuit Commercial Hosting Program which aren’t available in standalone Quickbooks. See below for a list of some of the top benefits offered by the program.

Intuit Commercial Hosting Program Benefits:

Additional customer support (available through Intuit and the hosting company).
Automated backups to protect your sensitive financial data from being lost.
Access Quickbooks anytime, anywhere using a computer with an active internet connection and a remote desktop terminal.
Connect to Quickbooks from multiple office locations.
Save money by eliminating the need for expensive server upkeep and maintenance.
Professional hosting companies to handle the technical aspect of Quickbooks, allowing business owners to focus on growing and expanding their business.
Fewer desktop application updates.

But Intuit doesn’t allow just any third-party company to enter its Hosting Program. In order to maintain their reputation as the undisputed leader in accounting software/services, they have a strict set of requirements that all third-party companies must pass. Failure to meet these requirements will result in the company being denied access to the Intuit Commercial Hosting Program.

List of Requirements For Intuit’s Commercial Host Program:

Own or rent a SSAE 16 Certified Tier 1 data center that’s physically located in the U.S. (foreign data centers are not accepted).
Pay startup fees, monthly fees and annual fees (note: fees vary depending on the number of clients).
Sign an agreement with Intuit to enter the Commercial Host Program.
All clients who wish to sign up for the Commercial Host Program via a third-party company must sign a separate agreement with Intuit.
Provide all Quickbooks users with access to their Quickbooks license information.
Provide all Quickbooks users with access to their registered, licensed product.

Hosted Quickbooks Enterprise 101: Everything You Need To Know

March 27, 2014

Quickbooks Enterprise is considered the “king” of all desktop-run Quickbooks programs. It’s a highly versatile accounting program that offers more room for growth and expansion than any other Intuit product on the market. Whether your business is small, large or anywhere in between, you’ll appreciate the unique combination of versatility and simplicity of Quickbooks Enterprise.

If you want to take the plunge into Quickbooks Enterprise, you’ll need to decide whether to install it on your own computer or choose a hosting provider, such as MyVao.com. There’s certainly nothing wrong with using Quickbooks Enterprise on your own desktop computer, but Intuit’s Commercial Hosting Program offers some unique benefits that shouldn’t be ignored.

Hosted Quickbooks Enterprise basically means that your licensed copy of Quickbooks Enterprise will be installed on an authorized third-party vendor. It’s a common assumption that Hosted Quickbooks is the same as Quickbooks Online, but this isn’t the case. Hosted Quickbooks is the full desktop version of the software (which in this case is Quickbooks Enterprise) installed on third-party server or data center.

Choosing Hosted Quickbooks Enterprise as opposed to installing the software on your own desktop computer will likely result in faster speeds and more processing power. You have to remember that third-party companies who participate in Intuit’s Commercial Hosting Program have high-end “super computers” that run clients’ Quickbooks. This translates into faster speeds and more processing power for users such as yourself.

Of course, Hosted Quickbooks Enterprise also offers a greater level of customer support. Intuit is known for their outstanding customer support, which is something that’s rare in today’s professional world. But having your Quickbooks Enterprise installed on a licensed third-party vendor offers one more level of customer support. Whether you need assistance setting up your account, troubleshooting or basic maintenance, you can contact the hosting provider for help.

Now for the question that’s likely on your mind: Should I choose Hosted Quickbooks Enterprise for my business accounting? It really depends on the unique needs of your business, as some businesses will take full advantage of its features, while others can suffice with a cheaper Quickbooks product. One of the key selling points of Quickbooks Enterprise is the fact that it allows access to 30 users simultaneously, making it an excellent choice for larger businesses. Combined with the increased speed and customer support of having it hosted by a licensed third-party vendor, it’s no wonder why so many business owners choose Hosted Quickbooks Enterprise.

How Does The Intuit Hosting Program Work?

February 27, 2014

If you’ve spent any time browsing through the different accounting products and services offered by Intuit, you may come across something known as the Intuit Hosting Program. Since the program isn’t required to run and operate Quickbooks, many first-time users avoid it. However, the Intuit Hosting Program is a versatile service that offers some key advantages not found in self-hosted versions of the software.

What Is The Intuit Hosting Program?

Still scratching your head trying to figure out what exactly is the Intuit Hosting Program? Basically, it’s a service which allows you to host your licensed copy of Quickbooks (see the list of compatible products below) on a remote location owned and maintained by an authorized facility. The facility is responsible for maintaining the software on their servers so users can freely log in and access it from their internet-enabled computer.

If that explanation is a bit too technical, let me try to break it down: the Intuit Hosting Program allows users to host their Quickbooks files on a remote server rather than their own computer. This benefits the user in a number of ways, such as increased security protection through data encryption, automatic file backups, better support, faster speeds and more.

List of Quickbooks products compatible with Intuit Hosting Program:

Quickbooks Pro
Quickbooks Premier
Quickbooks Accountant Edition
Quickbooks Enterprise Solutions
Quickbooks Point of Sale

Note: only the products mentioned above are compatible with the Intuit Hosting Program. If you own a licensed version of Quickbooks that’s not mentioned here, you’ll have to install and use it in your own computer.

The first step in hosting your licensed version of Quickbooks on a remote host is to find an Intuit-authorized hosting provider. Intuit maintains a set of strict standards which third-party providers must abide by. Each hosting company that’s approved for the program must first go through an application process along with an independent accreditation. This is necessary to ensure the hosting company is capable of meeting users’ demands.

The Intuit Hosting Program isn’t necessary to run or use Quickbooks, but it does offer some rather than unique benefits. Along with the peace of mind knowing that your files are safely stored on a remote location, you can take advantage of the additional tech support offered by the third-party hosting provider.

myvao.com is fully authorized by Intuit to participate in the Intuit Hosting Program. Be sure to check out our unbeatable service and competitive rates!

Benefits of Choosing a Hosted Quickbooks Provider

February 24, 2014

Intuit offers users two different ways to access and use licensed copies of Quickbooks: they can either install the software on their own desktop computer, or they can install it on a remote server via the Intuit Hosting Program. While both of these options provide users with full access to their Quickbooks accounts, there are some notable benefits to choosing the hosted version. If you’re still on the fence and can’t seem to decide which one is right for you, keep reading to learn some of the top benefits of choosing a hosted Quickbooks provider.

Increased File Security

The average user’s Quickbooks account contains tons of sensitive data, including bank accounts, client contacts, email addresses, financial data and more. It’s important for users to take the necessary precautions to keep unwanted eyes from prying on this information. Opting to install and use Quickbooks on your own desktop computers leaves this sensitive information susceptible to security flaws, especially if you aren’t familiar with firewalls and protection software.

Hosted Quickbooks providers, however, use encryption technology to ensure your information is safe and secure. This alone is reason enough for many users to choose a professional Quickbooks host rather than installing the software on their desktop computer.

Remote File Access

Another reason why you should choose a hosted Quickbooks provider is because your files are stored remotely rather than locally. Let’s say you go on a business trip only to discover that you left your laptop with Quickbooks back at home. Assuming your Quickbooks is hosted on a remote location, you can use any internet-enabled computer to access it. There’s no need to worry about constantly keeping up with your laptop, as Quickbooks is always just a few clicks away via a web browser.

It’s Faster!

There’s nothing more frustrating than being forced to sit and wait for your Quickbooks program to load. Nine out of ten times, speed problems such as this are the direct result of Quickbooks being installed on a dated computer with low hardware specifications.

Rather than relying on your desktop or laptop to power the resource-intensive operations of Quickbooks, you can choose to place this burden on the shoulders of a professional hosting company. They typically have dedicated servers designed specifically for hosting; therefore, Quickbooks runs faster than it would on a typical desktop computer.

Be sure to check out the Quickbooks hosting services offered here at myvao.com!

Pros and Cons of Cloud Computing Technology

September 30, 2013

Cloud computing has become one of the hottest, most talked about topics in the information technology (IT) field. Microsoft, Apple, Google, IBM and dozens of other prolific IT companies are now offering cloud services to consumers. Even with this newfound popularity, however, some people are skeptical over the use of cloud technology. In this post, we’re going to cover the pros and cons of cloud computing technology, revealing whether or not it’s something consumers should use.

Cloud Computing Pros

There are several key advantages to using cloud computing technology, one of which is the hardware being hosted remotely. Rather than relying on your local machine to perform computing tasks, cloud technology uses remote hardware that’s maintained by the host. This ultimately results in less required maintenance along with faster processing and bandwidth speeds. Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the benefits of cloud computing technology.

Another benefit of using cloud computing technology is that it automatically serves as a backup. Let’s hope this never happens, but if your computer were to crash, become stolen or suffer from a hard drive failure, you can rest assured knowing that your files are backed up on the cloud. Depending your particular service, you can typically log into your cloud account to download the files back to your local device.

A third benefit of cloud computing that’s worth noting is the simple fact that you can access your files from any location. If you accidentally left your work laptop at home while you’re on an important business trip, just log into your cloud account using any internet-connected device to access your files. This alone is reason enough for some people to use cloud computing.

Cloud Computing Cons

Now that you know some of the advantages of using cloud computing technology, you’re probably wondering what types of disadvantages it has. Well, truthfully there aren’t a whole lot of disadvantages. Some users may be concerned about the available storage space offered through their cloud service, but even this is upgradable with most companies. Identify your storage needs beforehand and then choose a service with the appropriate options.

Another ‘possible’ disadvantage is the lack of freedom with administrative handling and process. Since the hardware is hosted remotely, users have limited control over certain functions. If you need certain tasks or maintenance performed, you may be required to contact the administrator for help.

How To Build an Inventory Assembly In Quickbooks

September 23, 2013