Many businesses have grown to depend on and spend more on cloud infrastructure, especially cloud storage services. Cloud computing has grown a lot, and now cloud storage services offer more than just secure storage — productivity tools and integrations with other apps are also included.
There are plenty of cloud storage options, and it can be tricky to find out which one is best for your business. Read on to find out about four of the most popular options for businesses, Microsoft Azure, Amazon AWS, Dropbox, and Google, their differences, and which one you should choose for your business.
What Is Microsoft Azure? Features and Benefits
Microsoft Azure is an extensive, feature-packed cloud storage service for file storage, running servers, and much more. Azure’s feature list includes
- Azure Blob Storage, a scalable and secure object storage platform
- Archive storage for rarely-accessed data
- Built-in backup management
- Azure Files and Azure Data Share for sharing both small and big data internally or externally
Azure operates on the pay-as-you-go format, where you’re charged based on how much data you’re storing, your chosen type of cloud server, and how often you use your files.
The main benefit of Azure is its integration with existing Microsoft services, such as Windows Server, SharePoint, and Office, among others. This makes syncing your storage with your business applications much easier. They also have plenty of other integrations beyond Microsoft.
What Is Amazon Web Services? Features and Benefits
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world’s most-adopted cloud platform, with its more than 200 cloud services making up 33% of worldwide cloud infrastructure usage, according to Canalys. Amazon S3 is its leading storage service. Some features include:
- Storage management tools such as S3 Versioning, S3 Replication, and S3 Object Lock
- Storage Analytics to monitor your usage and optimize cost-efficiency
- Different storage classes for different data types
- Access management and security control
Flexibility and scalability are some major benefits of AWS. There is no limit on how much or how little you can use since the infrastructure is offered and purchased on demand. This means you pay for only the services you use.
What Is Google’s Cloud Storage? Features and Benefits
Cloud Storage is part of Google Cloud’s services built for businesses. It is a simple yet powerful cloud storage solution, with features such as:
- Four storage classes for different workloads
- Multiple redundancy options
- Storage Transfer Service and Transfer Appliance for easy online and offline data transfer
- Object Lifecycle Management to manage and automatically move between storage classes for cost efficiency
Cloud Storage pricing is based on the amount of data stored, data processing, and network usage. If your company uses Google Workspace tools such as Docs, Sheets, Drive, and Slides, the native integrations within Google Cloud will be a big plus for you.
What Is Dropbox Business? Features and Benefits
Dropbox is a popular personal cloud storage platform, though its use has grown among businesses. The platform offers two different versions, a free, personal version, and an enterprise alternative. The free edition isn’t a good fit for business and could be a security liability. If you go with Dropbox, you should use the paid business version. Some of its features include:
- File management and a version recovery system
- Flexible storage plans for different team sizes accompanied by a team folder manager
- Automated folders with standardized naming, tagging, and sorting
- Easily transfer files and remote wipe from lost or stolen devices
Dropbox is priced per package, with fixed rates for different sizes of teams or businesses starting at $12.50 per user monthly. One of the perks of using Dropbox Business is its accessibility across mobile and desktop devices and its remote wipe feature for security.
Which Is the Best Cloud Storage for Businesses?
While all these cloud storage services have different benefits, your choice of cloud storage will often depend on what features you’re aiming for and what your business currently uses.
Dropbox and Google Cloud are simpler options than AWS and Azure and are best for smaller businesses and teams. If you’re currently working with Google Workspace, Google Cloud Storage may be the easiest option.
AWS and Azure, the two biggest cloud service providers, offer more features and better security. Microsoft Azure is generally easier to use and offers more functionality and integration because it is built with Microsoft applications in mind.
Ask Expert IT Services for Help
If deploying cloud storage sounds complicated, you might need an IT service provider who is an expert at your chosen platform. Not only will they offer recommendations and solutions based on your platform, but the service provider will also help you build secure, resilient, and highly customized systems. You’ll also gain access to expert support and maintenance on your cloud infrastructure without breaking a sweat.
RIA cloud services can help you access the benefits of cloud computing while simplifying your operations and driving growth.