Understanding the Difference: SharePoint Online vs. SharePoint Server

SharePoint Online and SharePoint Server are two variations of the popular collaboration platform developed by Microsoft. The main difference between SharePoint Online and SharePoint Server lies in their deployment and hosting options.

SharePoint Online

SharePoint Online is a cloud-based version of SharePoint that is hosted and managed by Microsoft. It offers a convenient and cost-effective solution for organizations looking to access SharePoint without the burden of maintaining and managing the infrastructure. With SharePoint Online, users can access the platform from anywhere with an internet connection, making it ideal for remote teams and businesses with dispersed locations.

SharePoint Server

SharePoint Server, on the other hand, is an on-premises solution that requires organizations to host and manage the platform on their own servers. This gives organizations more control over their SharePoint environment but also requires a higher level of IT expertise and resources for maintenance and upgrades. SharePoint Server is suitable for organizations that have strict data governance requirements or specific customization needs that are not easily achieved in the cloud.

Focus Keyword: SharePoint Online vs. SharePoint Server

In summary, the choice between SharePoint Online and SharePoint Server depends on factors such as organization size, IT capabilities, budget, and specific business requirements. Both versions of SharePoint offer robust collaboration and content management features, but the deployment options differ significantly. Understanding these differences is crucial for organizations when deciding which version of SharePoint best suits their needs.