Cloud POS vs On-Prem POS
Moneta Pay POS is available in two deployment models. Choose the one that fits your restaurant's needs.
At a Glance
| Cloud POS | On-Prem POS | |
|---|---|---|
| Where it runs | Our servers | Your hardware |
| Internet required | Yes, always | Only for M-PESA, ESD, remote access |
| Works offline | No | Yes |
| Fiscal compliance (ESD) | Not available | Available (add-on or included) |
| Setup | 5 minutes, no install | ~20 minutes with setup wizard |
| Maintenance | We handle it | You manage the server |
| Data location | Our cloud | Your machine |
| Free tier | Yes (3 waiters, 2 terminals) | 18-day trial then paid |
Cloud POS
Cloud POS is software-as-a-service. We host and manage the server — you access it from any device with a web browser.
Best for:
- Small restaurants that want to start immediately
- Businesses comfortable with cloud-based tools
- Restaurants that don't need fiscal compliance (ESD/KRA eTIMS)
- Multi-location access without VPN setup
Limitations:
- Requires a stable internet connection
- Fiscal compliance not available (regulatory restriction)
- Printing handled client-side (browser-based)
- Revenue caps apply per tier
See Cloud POS plans → · Start Free →
On-Prem POS
On-Prem POS runs on your own hardware (a server or dedicated PC at your restaurant). You install it, you control it.
Best for:
- Restaurants that need fiscal compliance (KRA eTIMS, URA EFRIS)
- Businesses in areas with unreliable internet
- Larger restaurants with multiple terminals and printers
- Owners who want full control over their data
What you get:
- Works completely offline — internet only needed for M-PESA and ESD
- Full fiscal compliance with tax authority digital signing
- Direct TCP printing to thermal printers (faster, more reliable)
- No revenue caps on Enterprise
- WireGuard VPN for remote access
- All add-ons available (M-PESA, CCTV, smart stock, managed backup)
What you manage:
- A server or PC running Windows 10+ or Linux (Ubuntu 20.04+)
- PostgreSQL database (auto-provisioned by setup wizard)
- System updates (one-command installer, idempotent)
See On-Prem plans → · Installation guide → · Start Trial →
Switching Later
You can switch between Cloud POS and On-Prem POS. Your menu, waiter, and business data can be migrated. Contact support for assistance with the transition.
Still Unsure?
- Take the free Cloud POS for a spin — no credit card, no expiry
- Try On-Prem with the 18-day full-featured trial — all features included
- Talk to us — we'll help you decide