Team Foundation Server (TFS) is a Microsoft product that provides version control, issue tracking, and project management capabilities for software development teams. TFS can be purchased in two ways: on-premises or in the cloud.
On-premises TFS is installed on a server in your own data center. This gives you complete control over the server and its data, but it also requires you to manage the server yourself. Cloud TFS is hosted by Microsoft, so you don’t have to worry about managing the server or its data. However, you will need to pay a monthly subscription fee to use Cloud TFS.
The best way to buy TFS depends on your specific needs and budget. If you need complete control over your server and data, then on-premises TFS is the best option. If you don’t want to manage a server yourself, then Cloud TFS is the best option.
1. On-premises vs. cloud
When considering how to buy Team Foundation Server (TFS), one of the most important decisions you will make is whether to deploy it on-premises or in the cloud. This decision has a number of implications, including cost, control, and flexibility.
- Cost: On-premises TFS requires you to purchase and maintain your own hardware and software. This can be a significant expense, especially if you need to support a large number of users. Cloud TFS, on the other hand, is a subscription-based service. You pay a monthly fee per user, and Microsoft takes care of all the hardware and software maintenance.
- Control: With on-premises TFS, you have complete control over your server and data. You can customize it to meet your specific needs, and you can be sure that your data is secure. With cloud TFS, you have less control over your server and data. Microsoft manages the server, and you may not be able to customize it to the same extent as on-premises TFS.
- Flexibility: On-premises TFS gives you more flexibility than cloud TFS. You can install it on any hardware that you want, and you can customize it to meet your specific needs. Cloud TFS is more limited in terms of flexibility. You can only install it on Microsoft-approved hardware, and you have less control over how it is configured.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to deploy TFS on-premises or in the cloud depends on your specific needs and budget. If you need complete control over your server and data, and you are willing to pay the additional cost, then on-premises TFS is the best option. If you want a more affordable and easier-to-manage solution, then cloud TFS is the best option.
2. Features and pricing
In considering how to buy Team Foundation Server (TFS), understanding the features and pricing options is crucial. TFS is available in two editions: Standard and Enterprise. The Standard edition offers basic version control, issue tracking, and project management capabilities. The Enterprise edition expands upon these features, providing advanced reporting, customization options, and integration with other Microsoft products.
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Standard edition:
The Standard edition is suitable for small to medium-sized teams that require basic version control, issue tracking, and project management functionality. It provides core features such as:
- Centralized version control
- Issue tracking and bug reporting
- Basic project management tools
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Enterprise edition:
The Enterprise edition is designed for large teams and organizations that require advanced features and capabilities. It includes all the features of the Standard edition, plus:
- Advanced reporting and analytics
- Customization and extensibility options
- Integration with other Microsoft products, such as Visual Studio and SharePoint
Pricing for TFS varies depending on the edition and the number of users. Microsoft offers flexible licensing options, including perpetual licenses and subscription-based models. It’s recommended to evaluate your team’s specific needs and budget to determine the most appropriate edition and licensing option for your organization.
3. Support
When considering how to buy Team Foundation Server (TFS), it is important to factor in the cost of support. Microsoft provides support for TFS through a variety of channels, including online documentation, forums, and paid support plans. The type of support you need will depend on your specific needs and budget.
- Online documentation: Microsoft provides extensive online documentation for TFS. This documentation can be helpful for troubleshooting common problems and learning how to use TFS effectively.
- Forums: Microsoft also provides support for TFS through a variety of forums. These forums are a great place to get help from other TFS users and Microsoft support engineers.
- Paid support plans: Microsoft offers a variety of paid support plans for TFS. These plans provide access to priority support and other benefits.
The cost of support for TFS will vary depending on the type of support you need and the number of users you have. It is important to factor in the cost of support when budgeting for TFS.
FAQs
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about purchasing Team Foundation Server (TFS), addressing common concerns and misconceptions.
Question 1: What are the different ways to purchase TFS?
TFS can be purchased in two ways: on-premises or in the cloud. On-premises TFS is installed on a server in your own data center, while cloud TFS is hosted by Microsoft.
Question 2: What are the benefits of using TFS?
TFS provides several benefits for software development teams, including centralized version control, issue tracking, project management, and team collaboration.
Question 3: Which edition of TFS is right for me?
TFS is available in two editions: Standard and Enterprise. The Standard edition is suitable for small to medium-sized teams, while the Enterprise edition offers additional features for large teams and organizations.
Question 4: How much does TFS cost?
The cost of TFS varies depending on the edition and the number of users. Microsoft offers flexible licensing options, including perpetual licenses and subscription-based models.
Question 5: What kind of support is available for TFS?
Microsoft provides support for TFS through a variety of channels, including online documentation, forums, and paid support plans.
Question 6: How do I get started with TFS?
You can download a free trial of TFS from the Microsoft website. Microsoft also provides extensive documentation and resources to help you get started.
These FAQs provide a brief overview of the key considerations when purchasing TFS. For more detailed information, please refer to the Microsoft website or consult with a Microsoft partner.
Transition to the next article section:
Tips for Buying Team Foundation Server
To assist you in making an informed decision when purchasing Team Foundation Server (TFS), consider the following tips:
Tip 1: Assess Your Team’s Needs:
Carefully evaluate your team’s size, development processes, and specific requirements. Determine if the Standard or Enterprise edition of TFS aligns with your current and future needs.
Tip 2: Consider On-Premises vs. Cloud Deployment:
Decide whether on-premises TFS, hosted on your own servers, or cloud TFS, hosted by Microsoft, is a better fit for your organization. Consider factors such as control, flexibility, and cost.
Tip 3: Explore Licensing Options:
Microsoft offers various licensing options for TFS, including perpetual licenses and subscription-based models. Choose the option that best suits your budget and usage patterns.
Tip 4: Factor in Support Costs:
While TFS provides extensive online documentation and community support, consider the potential need for additional paid support plans. This can ensure timely assistance and resolution of complex issues.
Tip 5: Utilize Free Trial and Resources:
Take advantage of Microsoft’s free TFS trial to evaluate its features and compatibility with your environment. Additionally, leverage the available documentation, tutorials, and community forums for guidance.
Tip 6: Consult with Microsoft Partners:
If you require expert advice or assistance with TFS implementation and configuration, consider consulting with Microsoft partners who specialize in TFS solutions.
Summary:
By considering these tips, you can make an informed decision when purchasing TFS. Remember to thoroughly assess your team’s needs, evaluate deployment options, explore licensing models, factor in support costs, and leverage available resources. This will enable you to select the optimal TFS solution for your organization.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
Closing Remarks on Team Foundation Server Acquisition
In summary, the decision of how to buy Team Foundation Server (TFS) involves several key considerations. By carefully evaluating your team’s needs, assessing on-premises versus cloud deployment, exploring licensing options, factoring in support costs, and leveraging available resources, organizations can make informed choices that align with their unique requirements and objectives.
TFS offers a comprehensive solution for software development teams, providing version control, issue tracking, project management, and collaboration capabilities. Its flexible deployment options and licensing models cater to a wide range of scenarios. By adopting TFS, organizations can streamline their development processes, improve team efficiency, and enhance software quality.
