5 FAQs About NAV to BC Upgrades
Published: 2022-11-24 11:25:56

Switching to a new ERP system might be exciting for many users, but it can raise many reasonable questions. After all, it is a substantial investment. Businesses using Dynamics NAV, particularly those with numerous customizations and add-ons, should search for more dependable and specialized solutions, like Dynamics Business Central.
 
Business Central, a member of the Dynamics family, is Microsoft's top mid-market ERP solution. It includes a modern, user-friendly interface and has native interaction with other Microsoft programs.
 
NAV and Business Central share the same fundamental capabilities and are built on the same principles. Business Central is the just NAV, with an advanced version. The main distinction is that Business Central uses AL code, whereas NAV is built with C/AL code. This sets Business Central apart from NAV and makes it the industry standard. 
 
You might have many of the same inquiries if you are currently using NAV and are considering switching to [Business Central](https://www.dynamicssmartz.com/software/dynamics-business-central.php). Here are responses to some of the most frequently asked questions about upgrading from NAV to Business Central so you can make the best choice possible.
 
**Q1: When is the best time to upgrade to Business Central?
**
Before you go ahead, know that Microsoft is no longer supporting NAV. There will be no more updates or new releases for NAV. 
 
Eventually, some older versions of NAV will no longer be able to get license files. If you need to add users, you won't be able to. At the moment, new licenses are not available for NAV 2013 and older versions. 
 
So this is the right time to upgrade your ERP system to Business Central.
 
**Q2: WHAT is a "CLOUD-BASED" solution?
**
Dynamics Business Central is cloud-based, meaning your data and computer applications are remotely stored and delivered over the internet. This means Business Central is a cloud-based solution available anywhere at any time.

However, this varies from on-premises systems, where everything is stored on local servers, perhaps down the hall from the office space, and which incur steep infrastructure costs to startup or upgrade.
 
Business Central is most cost-efficient when utilized as Software as a Service (SaaS), which is entirely on Microsoft's cloud.  
 
**Q3: Is it wise to have an on-premise upgrade?
**
Microsoft must be paid annual renewal costs, and licensing must be acquired upfront. All add-ons are accessible, Business Central on-premises upgrades are under your control, and you have complete database access.  
 
Business Central's on-premises cost for most partners only includes licensing, not IT infrastructure (servers) or support expenses. So, deciding which form to invest in, you would have to take that additional recurring.
 
**Q4: Why is it important to upgrade?
**
Dynamics NAV and Business Central are both based on the same technology. It is the most recent and upgraded version of NAV. You need Business Central if you're still using NAV but want to stay relevant, up-to-date, and technologically advanced.
 
The functionality of Business Central is constantly being enhanced. On the cloud, upgrade releases and monthly upgrades are free, automatic, and need no effort from you. But there are yet to be any fresh updates or releases for NAV.
 
**Q5: What is the difference between NAV and Business Central?
**
Business Central and NAV ERPs work on the same core functions, but Business Central includes enhancements and features not in NAV. These upgrades are far more accessible in Business Central than in NAV:
 
- More user-friendly
- Credit card processing
- Connecting to external databases
- Linking to websites, such as e-commerce platforms