Fileservers are going obsolete!
- Carl Fransen
- Apr 23
- 2 min read
Traditional file servers have long been the go-to solution for storing and sharing files within organizations. However, with the advent of cloud-based solutions like Microsoft SharePoint, businesses now have a more powerful and flexible option. While file servers have their advantages, they also come with several limitations:

One File Open at One Time: Users cannot collaborate on files on the same time due to file locking.
Requires Expensive Hardware: Servers require depreciable hardware that require additional hardware such as backups, UPS, firewall, server room, etc.
Limited Accessibility: Accessing files on a traditional file server typically requires a VPN connection, making remote work cumbersome.
Version Control Issues: Multiple versions of the same document can lead to confusion and errors.
Scalability Challenges: Expanding storage capacity often requires significant investment in hardware.
Maintenance and Security: Regular maintenance and security updates are necessary to protect data, adding to IT overhead.
Microsoft SharePoint: The Evolution of the Fileserver!
Microsoft SharePoint is a cloud-based platform that offers a comprehensive suite of tools for document management, collaboration, and communication. Here are ten key business benefits that make SharePoint the superior choice for businesses:

Enhanced Collaboration and Real-Time Editing: SharePoint allows multiple users to work on the same document simultaneously, with real-time updates and version control. This eliminates the confusion of multiple document versions and ensures everyone is on the same page.
Accessibility from Anywhere: SharePoint supports access from any device, including cell phones, laptops, and desktops. This enables employees to work from anywhere, whether they're in the office, at home, or on the go.
Improved Security: SharePoint offers advanced security features such as sensitivity labels, data loss prevention (DLP), and Microsoft Information Protection (MIP) to secure documents and prevent unauthorized access.
Document Sharing and Links: Instead of emailing documents, SharePoint uses links that provide secure access to the original document. This ensures version control and real-time collaboration.
Offline Access: Users can work on documents offline, and changes are synced once they reconnect to the internet. This ensures business continuity even during internet outages.
Integration with Microsoft 365: SharePoint seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft 365 services, providing additional features like Copilot for enhanced productivity.
Scalability and Cost Efficiency: SharePoint's cloud-based infrastructure allows businesses to scale storage and services as needed without significant upfront investment in hardware.
Automated Workflows: SharePoint supports automated workflows, streamlining business processes and reducing manual tasks.
Enhanced Communication: SharePoint's integrated chat and notification system enables instant communication within teams. Users can discuss, ask questions, and share updates directly within the Microsoft environment, reducing reliance on external tools or email threads.
Conclusion
While traditional file servers have served businesses well in the past, Microsoft SharePoint offers a more powerful, flexible, and secure solution for modern business needs. With its enhanced collaboration features, accessibility, security, and integration with Microsoft 365, SharePoint is the clear choice for businesses looking to improve productivity and streamline operations. By adopting SharePoint, businesses can ensure their staff can work more efficiently, collaborate seamlessly, and stay connected, no matter where they are.