Cloud (SaaS) vs self-hosted LMS — which is better?

Cloud (SaaS) means the vendor runs the software; you log in through a browser. Self-hosted means you install and maintain it on your own servers (Moodle is the best-known self-hosted option).

Choose cloud if you want:

• No servers, backups, or security patching to manage
• Automatic updates and vendor support
• Predictable subscription cost and fast setup

Choose self-hosted if you have:

• A capable in-house IT team
• Strict requirements to keep data on specific hardware
• Time and budget for ongoing maintenance

For most Myanmar SMEs, schools, and NGOs — who are IT-light — cloud wins. Self-hosting Moodle looks free but carries real costs: a server, someone to maintain it, security updates, and downtime when something breaks. Cloud turns all of that into one monthly fee.