Upgrading from PatGuard 3 to PatGuard Cloud

Customer Transition Guide

Upgrading from PatGuard 3 to PatGuard Cloud

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Introduction

PatGuard Cloud is the next generation platform from Seaward, built to modernise how PAT testing data is managed, accessed, and shared across teams.

It replaces traditional locally installed software with a secure cloud platform that enables access from any device, supports multiple users at the same time, and scales easily across sites and organisations.

PatGuard 3 will continue to run on Windows 11, so existing systems can keep operating as they are today. However, it remains a legacy desktop application built on local database technology, which will become increasingly limited as operating systems and security standards continue to evolve.

PatGuard Cloud represents Seaward’s future direction, delivering a more connected, secure, and flexible platform designed for long-term use.

This guide explains what changes, what stays familiar, and how to decide when the right time to move is.

Key Benefits

🌐

Access from anywhere

Any computer via web browser — no installation or Windows dependency required.

👥

Multi-user, simultaneous

Multiple users operating at the same time within the same system.

🔄

Always up to date

Automatic software updates — no manual upgrades needed.

☁️

Secure cloud backups

Automated cloud backups and data recovery built in.

🔒

Modern security

Improved security aligned with modern cloud standards.

👤

Individual user accounts

Individual user accounts with full audit visibility across your team.

Feature Comparison

	PatGuard 3Desktop	Cloud StandardSubscription	Cloud BusinessSubscription
Access from any computer	✗	✓	✓
Mobile / tablet support	✗	✓	✓
Cloud hosting (secure infrastructure)	✗	✓	✓
Automatic software updates	✗	✓	✓
Automatic data backup	✗	✓	✓
Individual user accounts	✗	✓	✓
User audit trail	✗	✓	✓
Barcode / QR scanning	✗	✓	✓
Scheduling	Discontinued	✓	✓
Auto-scheduling	Discontinued	✗	✓
Email notifications	Discontinued	✗	✓
PAT tester compatibility (Seaward)	✓	✓ ^*1	✓ ^*1

^*1 Supports Seaward testers except models prior to the Supernova XE.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to move to PatGuard Cloud?+

No. PatGuard 3 will continue to be supported on Windows 11. However, customers should be aware that future changes in Windows environments and the planned direction of the platform may impact long-term compatibility. This guide is intended to help assess timing and suitability of transition to Cloud.

Will I lose my existing data when upgrading?+

No. PatGuard 3 data can be migrated into PatGuard Cloud, including historical test records.

Will PatGuard 3 still be supported?+

Yes. PatGuard 3 will continue to be supported on Windows 11. However, it remains a legacy application and depends on MDB database structures which may face increasing limitations in future Windows or security updates.

Do I need new hardware?+

No. Any modern PC, laptop, or tablet with a web browser can access PatGuard Cloud.

Can multiple users use the system at the same time?+

Yes. Each user has an individual login and can operate simultaneously within the same environment.

Will my Seaward tester still work?+

Yes. PatGuard Cloud supports Seaward testers, excluding models prior to the Supernova XE.

Is an internet connection required?+

Yes. PatGuard Cloud is a fully cloud-hosted system.

Can I export my data?+

Yes. Data export is supported for reporting and business continuity purposes.

What happens to PatGuard 3 after migration?+

It can remain installed, but will no longer be required for day-to-day operation once migration is complete.