Cloud Options for Microsoft Dynamics AX: What You Need to Know

Many of today's most popular ERP and CRM software applications are now available as a cloud product in some form.  For many business consumers, cloud is really the only desired option when considering a new software solution.  Unfortunately, not all software is available as a cloud option right out of the box, and this can be problematic if the right software for your organization is not cloud-based, or hasn't been for the time you have been using it. 

Fortunately there are ways in which to bring almost any software to the cloud.  And for Microsoft Dynamics AX customers who may be evaluating the new Azure-based cloud options, here is a look at what makes it possible to put your AX system in the cloud.

What about the new Azure option?

With the upcoming release of the new Microsoft Dynamics AX (formerly known by codename AX 7), there is a new cloud option available for deployment on Azure. With this addition, the choice still remains between on-premise or cloud, but the cloud deployment can now be public (Azure) or private. 

The choice between public and private clouds is a critical one. In short, public cloud can be likened to an apartment: a great option if you don't require a lot of flexibility for customizations and a standardized security approach meets your needs.  Private cloud can be likened to a single-family home: a great option if you want complete control, no neighbors on the other side of the wall and flexibility for customization and specific security settings -- even security applied inside your home (or your application layer in this case).

Depending on your requirements, pricing for a private cloud can be more advantageous if your needs require too many "...