SMALL BUSINESS CLOUD MIGRATION · AWS

AWS Cloud Server for Small Business
Apps, Files & Remote Work

Move off aging office hardware and onto a secure AWS cloud server that runs your everyday tools – accounting software, CRMs, file shares, and more – with secure remote access for your whole team.

Ideal for firms using QuickBooks, TaxSlayer, Drake, timekeeping apps, and shared network drives.

Secure Remote Access
Hosted Line-of-Business Apps
Cloud File Shares
Google Workspace & M365 Friendly

Project Investment

Standard Project Price $4,225

Roughly the cost of a single well-spec’d laptop – but instead of one device tied to a desk, you get a full business-grade cloud server for your entire team.

1. AWS Environment Build

A secure, private AWS foundation that becomes your “cloud office” – hosting apps, files, and remote users.

  • 1
    Create and secure a new AWS account A dedicated and private cloud space designed specifically for your business.
  • 2
    Configure VPC (private cloud network) Your own secure network inside AWS, similar to having a protected office suite in a larger building.
  • 3
    Create subnets and routing Organizes how your cloud systems talk to each other and to the internet.
  • 4
    Deploy Windows or Linux Server (EC2) Your central cloud server for line-of-business apps, file storage, and management tools.
  • 5
    Set up security groups (firewalls) Controls who can reach the server and blocks unauthorized access by default.
  • 6
    Configure IAM and identity access Creates user accounts and permissions so only approved staff can log in or make changes.
  • 7
    Install and configure OpenVPN Provides secure remote access so employees can connect from home, the office, or on the road.
  • 8
    Apply baseline protections and hardening Essential security best practices to keep business data protected and compliant.

2. Small Business Use Cases

Common workloads we move to AWS for accounting firms, service companies, construction trades, and other small businesses.

  • A
    Accounting & tax applications QuickBooks Desktop, TaxSlayer, Drake, time/billing apps, and other line-of-business tools.
  • B
    Internal file shares Network drives accessible from the office or remotely over VPN for documents, PDFs, and exports.
  • C
    Centralized document storage Scanned documents, client folders, and archives organized in one place instead of scattered PCs.
  • D
    CRM, inventory, or custom apps Database-backed tools that need a “server” but don’t justify on-prem hardware anymore.
  • E
    Remote desktops (RDP) Staff log into the cloud server and work in a familiar Windows environment from anywhere.
  • F
    Secure access for contractors Grant specific folder or app access without exposing your whole network.

3. File Storage & Document Management

Use AWS as your central file server, integrate with Google Workspace or Microsoft 365, or run a hybrid of both.

  • FS
    Local-style file shares in AWS Traditional “S:” or “Shared” drives hosted on the cloud server, accessed via VPN or Remote Desktop, just like in-office.
  • G
    Google Workspace Drive Sync and share documents across the team using Google Drive with built-in cloud backup and sharing.
  • M
    Microsoft 365 OneDrive & SharePoint Collaborate in real time, control permissions, and maintain version history for key documents.
  • H
    Hybrid storage strategies Keep sensitive or performance-critical data on the AWS server and store general documents in Google Drive or OneDrive/SharePoint.

Centralize your data – not your headaches

Instead of juggling different PCs and “mystery” shares, AWS becomes your one source of truth for apps and files, while Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 handles collaboration and everyday office documents.

4. Application Installation & Data Migration

We move your business applications and data to AWS and make sure staff can work the same way – or better – from anywhere.

  • 1
    Install required business applications Line-of-business tools for accounting, operations, CRM, or inventory as needed.
  • 2
    Configure TerminalWorks for local printing Print from the cloud server directly to your local office or home printers.
  • 3
    Migrate application data and historical files Move databases, prior-year data, and key folders to AWS.
  • 4
    Set up shared drives and permissions Ensure users only see what they should, while still keeping access simple.
  • 5
    Validate access, performance, and printing Confirm logins, speed, and print workflows are working as expected.
  • 6
    Full application testing Test the environment before go-live so there are no surprises for your team.

5. Testing, Validation & Documentation

We fully test the environment, then provide clear, business-friendly instructions for your staff.

  • ✓
    Connectivity & VPN testing Confirm remote staff can connect securely and reliably.
  • ✓
    Application & data validation Check apps, databases, and files for integrity and proper operation.
  • ✓
    Printing tests with TerminalWorks Verify cloud-to-local printing workflows that match your day-to-day operations.
  • ✓
    Role-based access checks Ensure staff see the right data with the right level of control.
  • D
    User connection guides Step-by-step instructions for logging in, using VPN, and accessing apps and shares.
  • D
    Daily-use instructions Simple how-to guides for staff using hosted applications and file shares.
  • D
    Backup & update overview How backups, patching, and maintenance are handled in the new environment.
  • D
    Support & escalation paths Who to contact and what information to provide if help is needed.

6. Why AWS & Ongoing Care

A modern cloud environment that behaves like the “office server” your team is used to – without the hardware headaches.

A better use of your hardware budget

The migration cost is comparable to purchasing a single well-spec’d laptop, but instead of one machine for one person, you get a shared, business-grade cloud server that supports the entire team with centralized data, remote access, and far better resilience.

  • Work securely from anywhere
  • Improve uptime and stability
  • Avoid surprise hardware failures
  • Scale resources as your business grows
  • Centralize line-of-business apps and documents

Ongoing maintenance plans (updates, security, backups, and support) are available and can be tailored to the level of coverage your business needs. Pricing is available on request.

Project Summary

  • •
    Full AWS environment setup Including networking, security, VPN, and server deployment.
  • •
    Migration of business apps & data Accounting, tax, CRM, file shares, and other critical workloads.
  • •
    File share & cloud storage integration AWS file shares plus Google Workspace Drive or Microsoft 365 OneDrive/SharePoint.
  • •
    TerminalWorks printing & remote work ready Cloud apps that still print to your office or home printers.
  • •
    Testing, documentation & handoff A fully tested environment with clear instructions for your staff.
  • $
    Fixed-price project Standard Price: $4,225
Sincerely, Michael Woods Cloud & IT Consultant Graddison Consulting LLC Contact US