The three most popular cloud service providers are Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud Platform (GCP.) Each has its own strengths. In this blog, we will take a look at the pros and cons of each cloud service. Cloud and More offer IT services in Bristol and the surrounding area. Give us a call if you’re looking for Bristol IT support. We can provide bespoke cloud solutions for your business.
What are the benefits of cloud computing?
- Reduces the cost of hardware, software and IT personnel.
- Easier to scale your resources up and down as required.
- Easier accessibility – you can access data and applications anywhere with an internet connection.
- More robust disaster recovery.
- Extensive security measures.
- Flexible services.
- Environmentally sustainable.
- Easier maintenance and patching.
- Improved monitoring and logging.
Which cloud is right for your business?
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each service to get a better idea of what cloud service would work best for you.
Pros for Microsoft Azure
- Familiarity – Azure is ideal for companies that already use Microsoft products such as Office 365, Active Directory and Windows Server as it integrates easily.
- Security – Azure has a strong focus on privacy and security. It provides a range of options including firewalls, encryption and access controls.
- Hybrid – Azure is ideal for hybrid cloud storage.
- Scalability – Companies can easily add and remove resources as and when they need them.
- Cost-effective – Azure is ideal for companies that don’t have a large IT budget
Cons for Microsoft Azure
- Complex – Azure requires a lot of management and advanced technical expertise. It is better to use an IT service company that understands its intricacies.
- Customer service – There is poor support for large-scale implementations.
- Fewer services – Azure offers fewer services compared to AWS.
Pros of AWS
- Reputation – AWS was established first so it has the largest market share. As the oldest and most experienced player, it is trusted and seen to be more reliable as a result.
- Flexibility – AWS is the most flexible option, offering a variety of services and pricing options to suit all budgets and needs.
- Availability – As the first to market, AWS have had time to build its network so it has the most availability zones globally.
- Services – AWS offers the most services and has the most products.
- AI – AWS has been at the forefront of AI and machine learning.
- Security – AWS focuses strongly on security and offers superior privacy measures.
- Ease of use – Whilst it may have a lot of features, it is easy to navigate for users.
- Scalability – AWS is enterprise-friendly and highly scalable. It also offers support for large enterprises.
Cons of AWS
- Lack of hybrid offering – This is not deemed a priority for AWS.
- Too much choice – The range of options available can be overwhelming for companies.
- Complex – There is a steeper learning curve because there are so many options available and it requires technical expertise to implement. If you’re new to cloud computing, it can be very confusing to use.
Pros of GCP
- Innovation – Google invest heavily in analytics, machine learning, research and development in order to offer their customers the latest innovative technology.
- Cost-effective – Google offer a competitive price for its users.
- Great offering – GCP provides strong data analytics and storage.
- Scalability – Companies can easily add and remove resources as required.
Cons of GCP
- Lack of services – GCP has fewer features and services compared to AWS and Azure.
- Customer service – There is limited support for companies.
- Less global presence – The availability of GCP around the globe is lower than AWS.
Ultimately GCP is the best platform if you’re already well ahead in your digital migration whilst AWS is the better option for larger enterprises. When it comes to small and mid-sized businesses, Microsoft Azure is the wise choice, especially if you’re a Windows-based company. If you’re using Microsoft 365, you’ll find it easier to use as you’re already familiar with the technology. With Azure, you can integrate the existing tools and software to ease the transition and keep costs down.
If you’re looking for help switching to Microsoft Azure, Cloud and More offer cloud technology and IT services in Bristol and the surrounding regions. As a Bristol IT support company, we offer advanced technical expertise so we can make your move to the cloud seamless. Get in touch with us today.
