Offline (on-premise) attendance software runs on a computer on site and doesn't need internet. Cloud attendance sends punches to an online service, which makes multi-site reporting and remote access easy but depends on connectivity and usually has a subscription. Terminals typically store punches locally, so short outages don't lose data either way.
Key takeaways
- Offline: no subscription, works without internet, one site is easy.
- Cloud: multi-site, remote access, automatic backups, subscription.
- Terminals usually buffer punches during outages.
- Choose by number of sites and who needs the reports.
01Comparison
| Factor | Offline / on-premise | Cloud |
|---|---|---|
| Internet needed | No (local network only) | Yes, to sync |
| Multi-site | Harder | Built in |
| Remote access for HR | Limited | From anywhere |
| Costs | Usually one-off | Usually subscription |
| Backups | Your responsibility | Provider's |
| Data location | On your computer | Provider's servers |
02Which suits you
Offline suits
Cloud suits
03Networking the terminals
Terminals connect by network cable (best), Wi-Fi or, on some models, mobile data. A cabled connection with backup power is the most reliable. See structured cabling.
04Frequently asked questions
Will I lose punches if the internet drops?
Usually not: terminals store punches and sync when the connection returns. Check the model's storage capacity.
Is cloud attendance secure?
Reputable providers secure data, but attendance and biometric data are personal data, so check where and how it's stored.
Can I move from offline to cloud later?
Often, depending on the terminal and software. Check compatibility before buying.
