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WhatsApp Business API / 4 min read

WhatsApp Business API Cloud API vs on-premise

Compare Meta’s Cloud API with legacy on-premise hosting for WhatsApp Business API.

Meta’s Cloud API replaces most legacy on-premise WhatsApp Business API hosting. Here’s how they compare for cost, maintenance, and performance.

Key takeaways

Cloud API is hosted by Meta with simpler setup; on-premise requires your own hosting and maintenance.
Cloud API updates automatically; on-premise needs version upgrades and more DevOps work.
Migration to Cloud API reduces infrastructure burden for most teams.

Cloud API advantages

No server hosting or scaling required.
Faster onboarding and easier credential management.
Automatic updates and latest features sooner.

On-premise considerations

Requires servers, backups, and upgrades.
Used mainly by legacy deployments or special compliance needs.
Migration planning needed to avoid downtime.

Migration notes

Coordinate number and template migration with your BSP.
Test webhooks and message flows on Cloud API before cutover.
Review pricing differences (Meta vs provider fees).

FAQs

Should new projects choose Cloud API?

Yes for most cases. It reduces maintenance and speeds releases. On-prem is now uncommon.

Do features differ?

Cloud API gets updates faster. Some legacy on-prem features may differ; check current docs.

Is migration disruptive?

It can be smooth with proper planning: port numbers, migrate templates, and test webhooks before switching traffic.

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