Products > Software vs. Appliances

Which is the better option? There is no right or wrong answer and each company's decision will be based on its particular circumstances, size and security needs. Overall, however, the benefits of a software installation outweigh those for an appliance in terms of price, security and overall control.
 
Benefits of a software approach

1. Most packages designed for SMBs are easy to install, configure and use
2. Pricing is reasonable and return on investment is often immediate (eg. mail archiving; spam; anti-virus etc)
3. Administrator has full control over how the software is implemented
4. Software can be customized and tweaked
5. Control over updates and patches – ability to pre-test patches
6. Software can reside on existing hardware saving money
7. Software can be easily reinstalled; data recovered from backup if system fails.

1. Multiple packages can be a headache to maintain and update
2. IT personnel required to maintain network
3. Some systems require in-depth technical knowledge
4. In the absence of IT personnel, cost of external IT support comes into play.

1. Complexity of operation is eliminated; runs on its own with minimal intervention
2. Easier management in the absence of an IT team
3. Vendor can provide install, configuration and maintenance support as part of purchase
4. Avoid vendor finger-pointing
5. Simplified infrastructure.

1. Affordability can be an issue for small companies
2. The one-box approach may pose an overall security risk
3. Might not make it the most efficient configuration for every user
4. If the appliance fails, company is down until a replacement arrives
5. Appliances could pose a disaster recovery hazard
6. By combining all these increasingly important business functions in one unit, businesses may be putting all their eggs in one basket
7. Does not give any flexibility to the IT administrator
8. In some cases takes longer to install; up to 6 hours.