CS Professional Suite is a trusted accounting software suite from Thomson Reuters, widely used by US tax and accounting firms for multi-user collaboration. Deploying it on a cloud server enables secure, remote access for teams without on-premises hardware.
System Requirements
CS Professional Suite requires a full Windows Server installation (not core mode) for network/multi-user use, as it needs .NET components. Key specs include:
Avoid wireless networks and non-Windows NAS to prevent file-locking issues.
Step-by-Step Deployment Guide
Follow these steps for a cloud-based multi-user setup, such as on Azure VM, AWS EC2, or a hosting provider like OneUp Networks.
Choose and Provision Cloud Server:
Select a Windows Server 2022 or 2019 VM with recommended specs. Enable RDS roles via Server Manager > Add Roles > Remote Desktop Services (Session Host and Licensing). Activate RDS CALs for multi-user access.
Install CS Professional Suite:
Download the latest installer from your Thomson Reuters account. Run SETUP.EXE on the server to install shared program files (e.g., to F:\APPS\WINCSI). Use UNC paths like \server\share\WINCSI for flexibility.
Obtain and Install Licenses:
Use CS Connect to download network licenses. Install them on the server once; workstations pull them automatically. Verify via Setup > System Configuration.
Configure Workstations:
On user devices (Windows 10/11), run the workstation installer from the network share. Connect via RDP to the server or publish apps as RemoteApps. Use full UNC paths for shortcuts.
Test and Secure:
Launch apps from multiple sessions, test file sharing, and enable MFA, firewalls, and audit logs. Update via CS Connect regularly.
Cloud Provider Options
- Self-Managed (Azure/AWS): Full control; provision Windows Server VM, install RDS. Cost-effective for 5+ users but everything is to be self managed.
- Hosted Providers: Virtual Office best alternative OneUp Networks offer pre-configured CS Suite environments with compliance (SOC/ISO). Ideal for smaller firms with 24/7 support and all apps can be integrated.
Consult Thomson Reuters support for your license type and latest updates, as requirements evolve. For Cloud Hosting, you can reach out to our Solutions Experts.
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