azure storage Archives

All Azure Storage Accounts listed by Size

by Mark | Mar 7, 2023 | Azure, Azure Blobs, Azure FIles, Storage Accounts

Key Takeaways

Topic	Insight
Storage Visibility	Use Cloud Storage Manager to get a complete view of storage usage across all accounts.
Tiered Storage	Move data to Hot, Cool, or Archive tiers based on how often it’s accessed.
Auto-Tiering	Automate data movement between tiers to save on long-term storage costs.
Retention Policies	Set automatic deletion timelines for stale data to prevent waste.
Compression	Compress data to save space and reduce transfer costs.
Monitoring	Regularly monitor usage to avoid unexpected overages.
Excel Exports	Export reports to Excel for detailed offline analysis or audits.
Subscription Breakdown	See which subscription each storage account belongs to for chargeback clarity.
Azure Advisor	Use recommendations to optimize costs, security, and performance.
Security	Apply access policies and encryption to protect stored data.

How big are your Storage Accounts?

In today’s digital age, managing data storage has become increasingly important, especially with the growth of cloud-based solutions. Azure Storage Accounts, a cloud-based storage solution provided by Microsoft, offer users a scalable and cost-effective way to store large amounts of data. However, as the amount of data stored in a storage account grows, it becomes crucial to manage the size of the account to optimize cost and performance.

Considering Performance Tiers: When managing Azure Storage Accounts, it’s not just about the size of the storage but also the performance tier. Standard storage is perfect for general-purpose workloads and cost savings, but for applications requiring high-speed data access, Premium storage may be necessary. Understanding the balance between storage size and performance needs can help optimize both cost and efficiency in your Azure environment.

In this article, we will explore how to view the sizes of all Azure Storage Accounts and provide best practices for managing them.

What are the benefits to knowing the size of your Azure Storage Accounts?

Cost optimization: By understanding how to manage Azure Storage Account sizes, users can optimize their storage environment and reduce storage costs.
Performance optimization: Users can optimize the performance of their storage environment by understanding how to select the appropriate storage tier and monitoring usage metrics.
Compliance: Understanding how to view and manage Azure Storage Account sizes can help users ensure they are meeting compliance requirements for data retention and deletion.
Capacity planning: By monitoring usage metrics and understanding how to manage Azure Storage Account sizes, users can better plan for future storage needs and avoid unexpected storage overages.
Security: Implementing security best practices, such as configuring access policies and using encryption, can help users protect their data stored in Azure Storage Accounts.

Overall, understanding how to view and manage Azure Storage Account sizes is essential for users who want to optimize their storage environment for cost, performance, compliance, capacity planning, and security purposes.

How to view Azure Storage Account sizes

To view the sizes of your Azure Storage Accounts, you can use Cloud Storage Manager, a powerful tool that enables you to manage all aspects of your Azure Storage environment from a single interface. Here’s how to use Cloud Storage Manager to view Azure Storage Account sizes:

Launch Cloud Storage Manager

Launch Cloud Storage Manager. From the Overview Tab, you can quickly see how much Azure Storage you are consuming, including the number of Azure Subscriptions, Storage Accounts, Containers, Blobs, Azure Files, your Azure Virtual Machines, and more.

Cloud Storage Manager Reports TAB

Now, since we are trying to find out just how much Azure storage we are consuming across our complete Azure Tenancy, we need to go to the Reports TAB.

Cloud Storage Manager Reporting

Highlight the report named “All Storage Accounts listed by size”

Right click this report and choose Run Report

All Storage Accounts listed by Size Report

Cloud Storage Manager will now detail all the Storage Accounts you have in Azure, including which subscription they are in, the Storage Account name and most importantly the size.

All Storage Accounts listed by Size in Microsoft Excel

As with all our Cloud Storage Manager reports on Azure Storage, you can choose to export this data to Microsoft Excel.

Storage Account Sizes Best Practices

Best Practice	Description
Use tiered storage	Azure Storage offers hot, cool, and archive tiers for Blob storage. The hot tier is designed for frequently accessed data, the cool tier for infrequently accessed data, and the archive tier for data that is rarely accessed. By using the appropriate tier for your data based on access patterns and retention requirements, you can save costs by only paying for the storage you need.
Implement retention policies	Setting retention policies for data that is no longer needed ensures that it is deleted automatically after a specified time period. This can help you to avoid incurring unnecessary storage costs for data that is no longer needed.
Use auto-tiering	Azure Blob Storage’s automatic tiering feature automatically moves data to the appropriate tier based on access patterns. This means that frequently accessed data is moved to the hot tier, while infrequently accessed data is moved to the cool or archive tier, depending on the access patterns. This helps to optimize performance and cost.
Compress data	Compressing data before storing it in Azure Storage can save space and reduce costs. Compressed data takes up less storage space and requires less bandwidth to transfer, which can reduce storage and data transfer costs.
Monitor usage	Monitor the usage of your Azure Storage Account with Cloud Storage Manager to ensure you are not exceeding storage limits or incurring unexpected costs.
Use Azure Advisor	Azure Advisor provides personalized recommendations for optimizing your Azure Storage Account. It can provide recommendations on cost savings, security, and performance. By following these recommendations, you can optimize your storage account for your specific use case.
Follow security best practices	Implementing security best practices is important to ensure that your data is protected. This includes configuring access policies, using encryption, and implementing other security measures to protect against unauthorized access.

Conclusion

Managing Azure Storage Account sizes is essential for optimizing cost, performance, and scalability. By using Cloud Storage Manager and following best practices, you can ensure that your Azure Storage environment is optimized for your specific use case. With Cloud Storage Manager, you can easily view and manage the size of your Storage Accounts, making it simple to optimize storage usage and reduce costs. Start managing your Azure Storage Account sizes today and enjoy a more efficient and cost-effective storage environment.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is it important to track Azure Storage Account sizes?
Storage costs can grow quickly in Azure. Tracking account sizes helps avoid bill surprises, identify unused storage, and improve overall efficiency.

2. How do I find out which storage accounts are using the most space?
Use Cloud Storage Manager’s “All Storage Accounts Listed by Size” report to see usage by account, subscription, and container.

3. What types of Azure storage are included in this report?
The tool reports on Blob storage, Azure Files, and associated container usage across all subscriptions you connect.

4. Can I export Azure storage size data for reporting?
Yes. Cloud Storage Manager allows exporting any report—including storage size breakdowns—to Microsoft Excel.

5. Does Azure provide native reports like this?
Not with the same depth or usability. Azure Portal provides limited views, but Cloud Storage Manager gives detailed, actionable insights.

6. What is Azure’s tiered storage model?
Azure offers Hot, Cool, and Archive tiers for Blob storage. The Hot tier is for frequent access, while Cool and Archive are for less frequent access at lower costs.

7. How does auto-tiering work in Azure?
Auto-tiering automatically moves blobs between tiers based on access patterns—ensuring you only pay for what you need.

8. Are there security considerations when managing storage?
Yes. Always configure access controls, enable encryption at rest and in transit, and audit storage regularly for unusual access patterns.

9. How can I reduce my Azure storage bill?
Use tiered storage, delete old data using retention policies, compress files, and use tools like Cloud Storage Manager to spot inefficiencies.

10. Is Cloud Storage Manager a Microsoft tool?
No. It’s a SmiKar Software tool designed to give deeper insights and control over your Azure storage than native Microsoft solutions. It is also completely FREE to use.

How to Recover a Deleted Storage Account

by Mark | Mar 7, 2023 | Azure, Storage Accounts

Deleted Azure Storage Account Recovery

As a cloud administrator or developer, you may have accidentally deleted a storage account containing critical data. Losing important information can be a frustrating and costly experience. Fortunately, Azure provides several ways to recover a deleted storage account. In this article, we will discuss the steps involved in recovering a deleted storage account in Azure.

Azure Storage Accounts provide a reliable and scalable solution for storing unstructured data in the cloud. A storage account is a logical container for data objects such as blobs, files, tables, and queues. Accidental deletion of a storage account can result in the loss of critical data, which can have severe consequences for businesses. In this article, we will explore the steps involved in recovering a deleted storage account in Azure.

Understanding Azure Storage Accounts

Azure Storage Accounts are the basic building blocks for storing data in Azure. There are four types of storage accounts in Azure: General-purpose v2 storage accounts, General-purpose v1 storage accounts, Blob storage accounts, and Premium performance v2 storage accounts. Each storage account has a unique name that is used to access its data objects. Azure storage accounts provide several features, such as data replication, scalability, and security.

General-purpose v2 storage accounts
General-purpose v1 storage accounts
Blob storage accounts
Premium performance v2 storage accounts

Each storage account has a unique name that is used to access its data objects. Azure storage accounts provide several features, such as data replication, scalability, and security.

Reasons for Deleting a Storage Account

There can be various reasons for deleting a storage account in Azure, such as:

The storage account is no longer required.
The storage account is not compliant with organizational policies.
The storage account contains sensitive data that needs to be deleted.
Accidental deletion by a user.

Regardless of the reason, it is important to have a plan in place for recovering a deleted storage account in case of accidental deletion.

Steps to Recover a Deleted Storage Account

Azure provides a mechanism to recover a deleted storage account within a specified time frame. The recovery period for a storage account is determined by the type of storage account and the subscription type. Here are the steps to recover a deleted storage account:

Step 1: Check the Recovery Period

The first step in recovering a deleted storage account is to check if the recovery period has not expired. Azure provides a default recovery period of 14 days for all types of storage accounts. The recovery period can be extended up to 90 days for general-purpose v2 storage accounts and up to 365 days for blob storage accounts. To check the recovery period for a storage account, follow these steps:

Log in to the Azure portal.
Click on the Storage accounts menu item in the left-hand pane.
Click on the Deleted accounts tab to view the list of deleted storage accounts.
Check the status of the deleted storage account. If the status is “deleted,” the storage account can be recovered.
Check the recovery period for the storage account. If the recovery period has not expired, the storage account can be recovered.

Step 2: Restore the Storage Account

The second step in recovering a deleted storage account is to restore the account. To restore a deleted storage account, follow these steps:

Select the deleted storage account from the list of deleted accounts.
Click on the Restore button at the top of the page.
In the Restore Account pane, review the details of the storage account, such as the account name, type, and location.
Click on the Restore button to start the recovery process.
The restored storage account will appear in the list of storage accounts once the recovery process is complete.

Alternative Method to Recover a Deleted Storage Account

If the recovery period has expired, or if the storage account cannot be recovered using the previous method, there is an alternative method to recover the account. This method involves contacting Azure support to recover the account. To recover a deleted storage account using Azure support, follow these steps:

Log in to the Azure portal.
Click on the Help + support menu item in the left-hand pane.
Click on the New support request button at the top of the page.
In the Basics tab, select the subscription that contains the deleted storage account.
In the Issue type tab, select “Storage accounts” and “Recover deleted storage account.”
Fill out the details of the support request, such as the deleted storage account name and the reason for the recovery request.
Submit the support request.

Azure support will review the support request and initiate the recovery process. The recovery process may take several hours to complete.

Best Practices to Avoid Accidental Deletion of Storage Accounts

Accidental deletion of a storage account can be avoided by following these best practices:

Use role-based access control (RBAC) to restrict access to storage accounts.
Use resource locks to prevent accidental deletion of storage accounts.
Use Azure Backup to create regular backups of storage accounts.
Use Azure Resource Manager templates to deploy storage accounts with predefined configurations.

Azure Storage Account Deletion RABC

To prevent accidental deletion of storage accounts using Role Based Access Controls, here are some guiding principles;

Prevention Method	Description	Example
Role-based access control (RBAC)	Assign appropriate access roles to users and groups to limit their permissions on the storage account.	Assign a user with the “Contributor” role instead of “Owner” to restrict their ability to delete the storage account.
Resource locks	Use locks to block users from deleting a resource, even if they have the necessary permissions.	Apply a “CanNotDelete” lock on the storage account to prevent accidental deletion.

It’s important to note that RBAC can be used not only to prevent accidental deletion, but also to restrict other types of operations on the storage account, such as reading or modifying data. Resource locks are specifically designed to prevent deletion and can be applied at the resource group or resource level.

Here’s a table that of the different RBAC roles and their permissions in Azure:

RBAC Role	Description	Permissions
Owner	Has full access to all resources and can manage access to resources	Can create, read, update, and delete all resources and assign access to others
Contributor	Can create and manage all types of resources but cannot grant access to others	Can create, read, update, and delete all resources, but cannot assign access to others
Reader	Can view existing resources but cannot make any changes	Can only read existing resources
User Access Administrator	Can manage user access to Azure resources	Can assign roles to users and groups to control access to resources
Security Administrator	Can manage security-related operations	Can manage security-related resources like security center, key vaults, and Azure AD security solutions
Network Contributor	Can manage network-related resources like virtual networks, network security groups, and IP addresses	Can create and manage network-related resources

And here’s a table that explains the different types of resource locks in Azure:

Resource Lock Type	Description
CanNotDelete	Prevents the deletion of a resource or resource group
ReadOnly	Prevents any modification of a resource, but allows for reading
DoNotDelete	Similar to CanNotDelete, but also prevents the deletion of any child resources
ReadOnlyWithCanNotDelete	Combination of ReadOnly and CanNotDelete

Azure Storage Account Deletion FAQs

Question	Answer
What is a storage account in Azure?	A storage account in Azure is a secure and scalable cloud storage solution for data objects, such as blobs, files, queues, tables, and disks.
How do I create a storage account in Azure?	To create a storage account in Azure, log in to the Azure portal, select “Create a resource,” search for “Storage account,” and follow the prompts to configure the storage account.
How do I access my storage account in Azure?	You can access your storage account in Azure using the Azure portal, Azure Storage Explorer, Azure PowerShell, or Azure CLI.
What is the recovery period for a deleted storage account in Azure?	The recovery period for a deleted storage account in Azure is between 0 and 14 days, depending on the type of storage account.
How do I recover a deleted storage account?	You can recover a deleted storage account in Azure by using the recovery period or by contacting Azure support. To use the recovery period, go to the deleted storage account and select “Recover.” To recover a storage account using Azure support, log in to the Azure portal and submit a support request.
How do I recover a deleted container in Azure storage?	You can recover a deleted container in Azure storage by using the Azure portal or the Azure Storage Explorer. To recover a container in the Azure portal, go to the deleted container and select “Undelete.” To recover a container in the Azure Storage Explorer, right-click on the deleted container and select “Undelete.”
What is soft delete in storage account?	Soft delete is a feature in Azure storage accounts that allows deleted data to be retained for a specific period of time. During this time, the data can be recovered in case of accidental deletion. Soft delete can be enabled for blob storage accounts and file storage accounts.
What is the purpose of soft delete?	The purpose of soft delete is to prevent accidental data loss and to provide an option for data recovery in case of accidental deletion. Soft delete also allows users to comply with retention policies and legal requirements for data retention.

Azure Storage Account Recovery Periods

Storage Account Type	Default Recovery Period	Maximum Recovery Period
General-purpose v2	14 days	90 days
General-purpose v1	14 days	Not applicable
Blob storage	14 days	365 days
Premium performance v2	14 days	Not applicable

Note that the maximum recovery period can only be extended for certain types of storage accounts. It’s important to check the recovery period for a deleted storage account before attempting to recover it.

Azure Storage Account Deletion Further Reading

If you would like to know more about Storage Accounts, visit these sites.

Description	Link
Microsoft documentation on recovering a deleted storage account	https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/storage/common/storage-account-recovery
Microsoft documentation on soft delete for Azure Storage	https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/storage/blobs/storage-blob-soft-delete
Microsoft documentation on Azure Storage Explorer	https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/storage/common/storage-explorer
Microsoft documentation on Azure PowerShell	https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/powershell/azure/overview
Azure Storage Cost Optimisation Tool	https://www.smikar.com/cloud-storage-manager/

Azure Storage Account Deletion Conclusion

Recovering a deleted storage account in Azure can be a challenging and time-consuming task, but it is essential to avoid data loss. Azure provides several mechanisms to recover a deleted storage account, such as the recovery period and Azure support. It is important to follow best practices to avoid accidental deletion of storage accounts and ensure the safety and security of data stored in Azure.

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Migrating On-Premises File Shares to Azure File Storage

by Mark | Feb 24, 2023 | Azure FIles

Azure Files. Challenges and Solutions.

As businesses grow, so does their need for scalable and secure data storage. For many companies, on-premises file shares have long been the preferred method of storing and sharing data. However, with the advent of cloud computing, more and more businesses are turning to cloud-based storage solutions like Azure File Storage. In this article, we will explore the challenges and solutions involved in migrating on-premises file shares to Azure File Storage.

Challenges of Migrating On-Premises File Shares to Azure File Storage

Migrating from on-premises file shares to cloud-based storage solutions can be a complex process, and it is important to identify potential challenges before starting the migration. Some of the challenges of migrating on-premises file shares to Azure File Storage include:

Network Bandwidth:

Moving large amounts of data from on-premises file shares to Azure File Storage can be time-consuming and may require significant network bandwidth. Depending on the size of the data and the available network bandwidth, the migration process can take hours, days, or even weeks.

Security Concerns:

Businesses need to ensure that the data they store in the cloud is secure and protected from cyber threats. Migrating on-premises file shares to Azure File Storage requires careful planning to ensure that the data is encrypted and protected both in transit and at rest.

Compatibility Issues:

On-premises file shares often use specific protocols and technologies that may not be compatible with Azure File Storage. This can cause compatibility issues during the migration process, which can lead to data loss or corruption.

Cost:

While cloud-based storage solutions like Azure File Storage can be cost-effective in the long run, the initial cost of migrating on-premises file shares to the cloud can be significant. Businesses need to carefully consider the cost of the migration process and ensure that it fits within their budget, or monitor the usage of their Azure Files with Cloud Storage Manager to see where optimistations and cost reductions can be.

Solutions for Migrating On-Premises File Shares to Azure File Storage

To overcome the challenges of migrating on-premises file shares to Azure File Storage, businesses need to develop a well-planned migration strategy that addresses each of the challenges outlined above. Some of the solutions for migrating on-premises file shares to Azure File Storage include:

Network Optimization:

To minimize the time required for data migration, businesses can optimize their network bandwidth by compressing data and using dedicated network connections for the migration process.

Encryption and Security:

Businesses should implement strong encryption and security measures to ensure that data is protected both in transit and at rest. Azure File Storage provides several encryption options, including client-side encryption and Azure Key Vault integration.

Compatibility Testing:

Before migrating data to Azure File Storage, businesses should test their existing protocols and technologies for compatibility issues. This can help identify potential issues before they cause data loss or corruption.

Cost Planning:

Businesses should carefully consider the cost of migrating on-premises file shares to Azure File Storage and develop a detailed cost plan that includes the cost of storage, data transfer, and other related expenses.

Azure Storage Explorer

Azure Storage Explorer is a free, cross-platform tool that provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for managing Azure storage accounts. It can be used to migrate files to Azure Files by simply dragging and dropping files from a local file system to an Azure Files share.

Pros

User-friendly interface: Azure Storage Explorer provides a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to manage and migrate files to Azure Files.
Simple setup: Azure Storage Explorer can be easily downloaded and installed, with no additional setup required.
Quick migration: Migration using Azure Storage Explorer is quick and easy, and can be completed in a few simple steps.

Cons

Limited functionality: Azure Storage Explorer is limited in terms of functionality, and cannot be used to migrate files with complex settings or configurations.
Limited automation: Azure Storage Explorer does not provide automation options for migration, which can be time-consuming for large or complex migrations.

Azure PowerShell

Azure PowerShell is a command-line tool that provides a powerful and flexible interface for managing Azure resources. It can be used to migrate files to Azure Files by writing PowerShell scripts that automate the migration process.

Pros

Powerful scripting options: Azure PowerShell provides a powerful scripting environment that allows for complex migrations to be automated.
Greater control: Azure PowerShell provides greater control over the migration process, allowing for custom settings and configurations to be used.
Can handle larger migrations: Azure PowerShell can handle larger or more complex migrations that may not be possible with Azure Storage Explorer.

Cons

Steep learning curve: Azure PowerShell has a steep learning curve and requires experience with PowerShell scripting.
Time-consuming: Migration using Azure PowerShell can be time-consuming, as scripts need to be written and tested before the actual migration can begin.

Azure Data Box

Azure Data Box is a physical device that can be used to migrate large amounts of data to Azure Files. The device is shipped to the user, who then uploads their data onto the device before shipping it back to Microsoft for the data to be uploaded to Azure Files.

Pros

Can handle large migrations: Azure Data Box is designed for large or complex migrations, and can handle up to 100 TB of data.
Secure: Azure Data Box provides a secure method of migration, as the data is physically shipped to Microsoft for upload to Azure Files.
Fast migration: Azure Data Box provides fast migration, as the data is physically transferred rather than uploaded over the internet.

Cons

Physical device required: Azure Data Box requires a physical device to be shipped to the user, which can add to the cost and time required for migration.
Limited control: Azure Data Box provides limited control over the migration process, as the data is physically shipped to Microsoft for upload to Azure Files.

Each migration method has its own advantages and disadvantages. Azure Storage Explorer is a user-friendly tool that is quick and easy to use, but is limited in terms of functionality and automation options. Azure PowerShell provides greater control over the migration process, but has a steep learning curve and can be time-consuming. Azure Data Box is designed for large or complex migrations, but requires a physical device and provides limited control over the migration process. The choice of migration method depends on the specific requirements and constraints of the migration project.

Azure Files Technical Limits

Azure Files Technical Limits
Maximum file share size: 5 TiB
Maximum file size: 1 TiB
Maximum IOPS per share: 10,000
Maximum throughput per share: 5 GiB/s
Maximum number of file shares per storage account: 200
Maximum number of files per file share: 5 billion

Azure Files vs a traditional file server comparison.

Criteria	Azure Files	File Server
Cost	Pay-as-you-go pricing model, with cost depending on usage	High initial setup cost for hardware, software, and maintenance
Scalability	Highly scalable, able to support a large number of file shares and files	Limited scalability, difficult to expand without significant investment in new hardware
Accessibility	Accessible from anywhere with an internet connection	Limited accessibility, can only be accessed within a company’s network
Maintenance	Little to no maintenance required, with built-in redundancy and failover capabilities	Regular maintenance required, including software updates, hardware replacement, and backups
Security	Built-in security features, including encryption, access control, and auditing	Limited security features, vulnerable to security threats like ransomware attacks
Collaboration	Multiple users can access and collaborate on files from anywhere	Limited collaboration capabilities, difficult to share files outside of the company network
Backup and Recovery	Built-in backup and recovery capabilities with multiple redundant copies	Backup and recovery solutions require additional hardware and software investment
Performance	High-performance with high IOPS and throughput capabilities	Performance dependent on hardware and network configuration

Azure Files Pros and Cons

Azure Files Pros	Azure Files Cons
Easy to set up and use	Limited support for certain file types
Scalable to support a large number of file shares and files	Can be slow for large file transfers
High availability with built-in redundancy and failover capabilities	Limited support for advanced features like file locking
Built-in security features including encryption, access control, and auditing	Can be more expensive than other file storage solutions
Cost-effective solution compared to traditional on-premises storage	Requires an Azure subscription to use

Azure Files or a File Server?

Azure File Use Cases

Storing and sharing files across multiple virtual machines or cloud instances
Migrating on-premises file shares to the cloud
Hosting media files for websites or applications
Sharing files with remote teams or clients
Backing up data to the cloud for disaster recovery purposes

Azure Files further reading

Link	Description
Migrate on-premises file servers to Azure Files	Official Microsoft documentation on migrating on-premises file servers to Azure Files
Azure File Sync	Service that enables caching of Azure Files on an on-premises Windows Server, providing performance and compatibility benefits
Migrate to Azure Files with Azure Migrate	Microsoft documentation on using Azure Migrate to migrate file services to Azure Files
Migrate file shares to Azure Files using Azure Data Box Gateway	Guide on using Azure Data Box Gateway to migrate file shares to Azure Files
Azure File Sync troubleshooting guide	Microsoft documentation on troubleshooting common issues with Azure File Sync

Azure Files offers several advantages over traditional file servers. First and foremost, it eliminates the need for costly hardware and software investments, as well as ongoing maintenance expenses. Azure Files operates on a pay-as-you-go pricing model, which means that you only pay for the storage you use. You can always optimise your Azure Files by using Cloud Storage Manager to gain insights in to your Azure Storage to reduce your Azure Costs. Additionally, Azure Files is highly scalable, making it easy to expand your storage capacity as your needs change.

Another significant advantage of Azure Files is accessibility. Files stored in Azure can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy for remote employees to collaborate and work together. Azure Files also offers built-in security features, including encryption, access control, and auditing, which can help protect your data from unauthorized access and security threats like ransomware attacks.

There are various use cases for Azure Files, such as file shares for distributed teams, storing and sharing files for application deployment, backup and disaster recovery, and more. Azure Files is an excellent option for companies that need flexible and scalable storage solutions without the cost and hassle of maintaining traditional file servers.

Overall, Azure Files offers a cost-effective, scalable, and secure solution for file storage and sharing, making it an attractive alternative to traditional file servers for many organizations.

Migrating on-premises file shares to Azure File Storage can be a complex process that requires careful planning and consideration of potential challenges. However, by developing a well-planned migration strategy and addressing each of the challenges outlined above, businesses can successfully migrate their data to Azure File Storage and take advantage of its many benefits, including scalability, security, and cost-effectiveness.

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Azure Blob Storage vs. Azure Table Storage?

by Mark | Feb 22, 2023 | Azure, Azure Blobs, Azure Tables, Blob Storage, Comparison

Azure Blob or Table Storage?

When it comes to storing data in the cloud, there are many options to choose from. Azure, one of the leading cloud service providers, offers a wide range of storage options, including Azure Blob Storage and Azure Table Storage. Both are designed to help businesses store and manage large amounts of data, but they have different use cases and capabilities.

In this article, we will compare Azure Blob Storage and Azure Table Storage and help you determine which one is right for your business needs.

Azure Blob Storage Overview:

Azure Blob Storage is a cloud-based storage solution designed to store unstructured data like images, videos, documents, and backups. It offers unlimited capacity and can store any amount of data, from a few gigabytes to petabytes of data. Azure Blob Storage is ideal for storing large files that do not need to be queried frequently.

Azure Table Storage Overview:

Azure Table Storage, on the other hand, is a NoSQL key-value database that stores structured data. It is designed for storing structured data like user profiles, logs, and configuration data. Azure Table Storage is a highly scalable solution that can handle large amounts of structured data.

Differences between Azure Blob Storage and Azure Table Storage:

Azure Blob Storage and Azure Table Storage are designed for different use cases and have different capabilities. Here are some key differences between the two:

Data Structure: Azure Blob Storage stores unstructured data, while Azure Table Storage stores structured data.
Querying: Azure Blob Storage does not provide querying capabilities, while Azure Table Storage allows you to query your data using a simple key-value pair.
Cost: Azure Blob Storage is more cost-effective for storing large amounts of unstructured data, while Azure Table Storage is more cost-effective for storing structured data that requires frequent querying.

Use Cases for Azure Blob Storage:

Azure Blob Storage is ideal for storing and managing large unstructured data like:

Media files: Images, videos, and audio files can be easily stored and retrieved using Azure Blob Storage.
Backups: Azure Blob Storage can be used to store backups of virtual machines, databases, and other applications.
Logs: Azure Blob Storage can store log files generated by applications, servers, and other systems.

Use Cases for Azure Table Storage:

Azure Table Storage is ideal for storing and managing structured data like:

User profiles: Azure Table Storage can store user profiles that are accessed frequently by web applications.
Configuration data: Azure Table Storage can store configuration data like settings and preferences that are required by applications.
Logging and telemetry data: Azure Table Storage can store logs and telemetry data generated by applications and systems.

Azure Blob Storage	Azure Table Storage
Large amounts of unstructured data like images, videos, and backups	Structured data like user profiles, logs, and configuration data
High scalability for read-heavy workloads	Frequent querying of structured data
Data that requires high availability and durability	Structured data that requires indexing and filtering
Serving data for web and mobile applications	Fast data access for real-time analytics
Cost-effective storage for infrequently accessed data	Cost-effective storage for frequently accessed data

Pros and Cons of Azure Table and Azure Blob Storage:

Pros	Azure Blob Storage	Azure Table Storage
Data storage	Suitable for large amounts of unstructured data like images, videos, backups	Designed for structured data like user profiles, logs, configuration data
Querying capabilities	Supports simple querying using metadata or properties	Supports easy querying using key-value pairs
Scalability	Highly scalable for read-heavy workloads	Limited scalability, may not be suitable for storing very large data sets
Cost-effectiveness	Cost-effective for storing infrequently accessed data	Cost-effective for storing frequently accessed structured data

Cons	Azure Blob Storage	Azure Table Storage
Data storage	Not suitable for structured data that requires frequent querying	Limited support for unstructured data
Querying capabilities	Limited querying capabilities, not suitable for structured data	Limited querying capabilities for unstructured data
Scalability	Limited support for write-heavy workloads	Limited scalability, may not be suitable for storing very large data sets
Cost-effectiveness	Costly for storing frequently accessed structured data	Costly for storing infrequently accessed data

As you can see, both Azure Blob Storage and Azure Table Storage have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right storage option for your business depends on the type of data you need to store and how frequently you need to access it. By understanding the pros and cons of each technology, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your business needs.

Pros and Cons of Azure Table and Azure Blob Storage:

Pros	Azure Blob Storage	Azure Table Storage
Data storage	Suitable for large amounts of unstructured data like images, videos, backups	Designed for structured data like user profiles, logs, configuration data
Querying capabilities	Supports simple querying using metadata or properties	Supports easy querying using key-value pairs
Scalability	Highly scalable for read-heavy workloads	Limited scalability, may not be suitable for storing very large data sets
Cost-effectiveness	Cost-effective for storing infrequently accessed data	Cost-effective for storing frequently accessed structured data

Cons	Azure Blob Storage	Azure Table Storage
Data storage	Not suitable for structured data that requires frequent querying	Limited support for unstructured data
Querying capabilities	Limited querying capabilities, not suitable for structured data	Limited querying capabilities for unstructured data
Scalability	Limited support for write-heavy workloads	Limited scalability, may not be suitable for storing very large data sets
Cost-effectiveness	Costly for storing frequently accessed structured data	Costly for storing infrequently accessed data

Azure Blob and Table Storage FAQs

Can I use Azure Blob Storage to store structured data?

Yes, you can store structured data in Azure Blob Storage, but it does not have querying capabilities like Azure Table Storage.

Can I use Azure Table Storage to store unstructured data?

While Azure Table Storage is designed for storing structured data, you can store unstructured data using a single column of type Binary.

Which storage option is more cost-effective?

It depends on the type of data you need to store. Azure Blob Storage is more cost-effective for storing large amounts of unstructured data, while Azure Table Storage is more cost-effective for storing structured data that requires frequent querying.

Can I use both Azure Blob Storage and Azure Table Storage together?

Yes, you can use both Azure Blob Storage and Azure Table Storage together to store different types of data based on your business needs.

What is Azure Blob Storage and what types of data can it store?

Azure Blob Storage is a cloud-based object storage solution that is designed for storing large amounts of unstructured data, such as images, videos, and backups. It can also store structured data in the form of blobs, which can be used to store documents, logs, and other file types.

What is Azure Table Storage and what types of data can it store?

Azure Table Storage is a NoSQL key-value storage solution that is designed for structured data, such as user profiles, logs, and configuration data. It stores data in a table format with a partition key and a row key, making it easy to query and filter the data.

How do I choose between Azure Blob Storage and Azure Table Storage?

Choosing the right storage solution depends on the type of data you need to store and how frequently you need to access it. If you have large amounts of unstructured data or need to serve data for web and mobile applications, Azure Blob Storage may be the best choice. If you have structured data that requires frequent querying or indexing, Azure Table Storage may be the better option.

What are the scalability options for Azure Blob Storage and Azure Table Storage?

Azure Blob Storage is highly scalable and can handle read-heavy workloads with ease. It can also scale to store petabytes of data. Azure Table Storage, on the other hand, has limited scalability and may not be suitable for storing very large data sets.

What are the cost implications of using Azure Blob Storage and Azure Table Storage?

Azure Blob Storage is cost-effective for storing infrequently accessed data, while Azure Table Storage is cost-effective for storing frequently accessed structured data. However, both options have their own cost implications, and it’s important to consider your business needs and budget before making a decision.

Can I use both Azure Blob Storage and Azure Table Storage together?

Yes, you can use both storage solutions together in your Azure environment. This can be useful if you have both unstructured and structured data that you need to store and access. By using both solutions together, you can take advantage of their respective strengths and create a comprehensive storage strategy that meets your business needs.

How can I optimize my storage usage and reduce costs?

There are several strategies you can use to optimize your Azure storage usage and reduce costs, such as tiering your data in Azure Blob Storage, setting up lifecycle policies, and using tools like Cloud Storage Manager to monitor and analyze your usage. It’s important to regularly review your storage strategy and adjust it as needed to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your investment.

In conclusion, Azure Blob Storage and Azure Table Storage are both valuable storage options in Azure with their unique strengths and use cases. Choosing the right option depends on the type of data you need to store and how frequently you need to access it. To learn more about Azure storage limits, check out this informative article. If you need to tier your data in Azure Blob Storage, this guide can help. Additionally, if you want to optimize your Azure Blob Storage consumption and save money, consider using our software product, Cloud Storage Manager. It provides detailed analytics and reporting on your Azure Blob Storage usage, allowing you to make informed decisions about optimizing your storage usage and reducing costs. With the right knowledge and tools, you can make the most out of your Azure storage options and achieve your business goals.

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Azure Blob Storage vs. Google Cloud Storage?

by Mark | Feb 21, 2023 | Azure, Blob Storage, Cloud Storage, GCP

In the digital age, storing data on-premise is becoming less popular as more businesses are moving their data to the cloud. Cloud storage services offer scalability, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness, making them an attractive option for businesses of all sizes. Azure Blob Storage and Google Cloud Storage are two popular cloud storage services that offer different features and benefits to their users. In this article, we will compare the two services to help you make an informed decision on which one to choose for your data storage needs.

Azure Blob Storage vs. Google Cloud Storage – An Overview

Azure Blob Storage is a cloud-based object storage service that enables users to store and manage unstructured data such as images, videos, audio files, and documents. It offers various features such as versioning, replication, and access control to help users manage their data effectively. On the other hand, Google Cloud Storage is a similar service offered by Google Cloud Platform that provides object storage, file storage, and block storage solutions to its users.

GCP and Azure Storage Types

Google Cloud Storage vs Azure Blob Storage:

Both GCP and Azure offer object storage options. Google Cloud Storage offers multi-regional, regional, and nearline storage classes, while Azure Blob Storage offers hot, cool, and archive storage tiers. GCP offers more flexibility in terms of storage classes and access tiers, while Azure Blob Storage offers lower costs for data stored in archive tier.

Google Cloud Filestore vs Azure Files:

Both GCP and Azure offer file storage options. Google Cloud Filestore offers high-performance, fully-managed NFS file storage, while Azure Files offers SMB file shares. Google Cloud Filestore is a better choice for applications that require high-performance file sharing, while Azure Files is a better choice for legacy applications that require SMB protocol.

Google Cloud Persistent Disk vs Azure Managed Disks:

Both GCP and Azure offer block storage options. Google Cloud Persistent Disk offers high-performance SSD and low-cost HDD options, while Azure Managed Disks offers Standard and Premium tiers with different performance and capacity options. Google Cloud Persistent Disk offers more granular control over disk performance and capacity, while Azure Managed Disks offer seamless integration with other Azure services.

Google Cloud Memorystore vs Azure Cache for Redis:

Both GCP and Azure offer in-memory data storage options. Google Cloud Memorystore offers fully-managed Redis and Memcached, while Azure Cache for Redis offers fully-managed Redis. Both services offer high-performance in-memory data storage and support for multiple Redis databases.

Google Cloud Spanner vs Azure Cosmos DB:

Both GCP and Azure offer globally distributed, highly-scalable NoSQL database options. Google Cloud Spanner offers horizontally scalable, ACID-compliant relational database, while Azure Cosmos DB offers multi-model, globally distributed database. Google Cloud Spanner is a better choice for applications that require transactional consistency and SQL-like query language, while Azure Cosmos DB is a better choice for applications that require multi-model support and seamless integration with other Azure services.

Storage Type	Google Cloud Platform	Azure
Object Storage	Multi-regional, regional, nearline storage classes	Hot, cool, archive storage tiers
File Storage	Google Cloud Filestore – high-performance, fully-managed NFS file storage	Azure Files – SMB file shares
Block Storage	Google Cloud Persistent Disk – high-performance SSD and low-cost HDD options	Azure Managed Disks – Standard and Premium tiers
In-Memory Data Storage	Google Cloud Memorystore – fully-managed Redis and Memcached	Azure Cache for Redis – fully-managed Redis
NoSQL Database	Google Cloud Spanner – horizontally scalable, ACID-compliant relational database	Azure Cosmos DB – multi-model, globally distributed database

GCP and Azure Storage Features and Benefits

Azure Blob Storage offers various features and benefits that make it an ideal choice for businesses looking for a reliable and scalable cloud storage solution. Some of the key features of Azure Blob Storage include:

Cost-Effective:

Azure Blob Storage offers a pay-as-you-go pricing model, which means users only pay for the storage they use, making it a cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes.

Scalable:

Azure Blob Storage can scale up or down as per the user’s requirements, making it an ideal solution for businesses with fluctuating data storage needs.

Security:

Azure Blob Storage offers various security features such as data encryption, access control, and authentication to ensure the safety and privacy of user data.

Backup and Recovery:

Azure Blob Storage offers automatic backup and recovery options to help users recover their data in case of any disaster or data loss.

Google Cloud Storage also offers various features and benefits to its users. Some of the key features of Google Cloud Storage include:

Multi-Regional Storage:

Google Cloud Storage offers multi-regional storage options, which enables users to store their data in multiple regions for redundancy and availability.

Scalability:

Google Cloud Storage can scale up or down as per the user’s requirements, making it an ideal solution for businesses with fluctuating data storage needs.

Integration:

Google Cloud Storage integrates seamlessly with other Google Cloud Platform services, making it easy for users to manage their data in a single platform.

Security:

Google Cloud Storage offers various security features such as data encryption, access control, and audit logging to ensure the safety and privacy of user data.

Feature	Azure Blob Storage	Google Cloud Storage
Durability	11 nines	11 nines
Availability	SLA of 99.9%	SLA of 99.95%
Access Tiers	Hot, cool, archive	Multi-regional, regional, nearline
Geo-Replication	Zone-redundant storage, geo-redundant storage, read-access geo-redundant storage	Multi-regional, regional
Data Transfer	Free inbound data transfers, outbound data transfer fees based on usage	Free inbound data transfers, outbound data transfer fees based on usage
Security	Encryption at rest and in transit, role-based access control	Encryption at rest and in transit, access control lists, signed URLs
Cost	Pay-as-you-go pricing, pricing based on usage, storage tier and data egress	Pay-as-you-go pricing, pricing based on usage, storage class and data egress

GCP and Azure Storage Pricing Comparison

Azure Blob Storage and Google Cloud Storage both offer a pay-as-you-go pricing model, which means users only pay for the storage they use. However, the pricing structure of the two services differs slightly. Azure Blob Storage offers a standard pricing model, which charges users based on the amount of data stored, data egress, and data operations. On the other hand, Google Cloud Storage offers a flexible pricing model, which charges users based on the storage class, access frequency, and network usage.

This table provides a side-by-side comparison of the pricing for Azure Blob Storage and Google Cloud Storage, and highlights some of the key differences between them. The actual cost of using either service will depend on a variety of factors, including the amount of data stored, the frequency and volume of data transfers, and the frequency of operations such as read and write requests. It’s important to evaluate the pricing based on your specific use case and requirements.

For an estimate and comparison between Azure, AWS and GCP Cloud storage, you can use our Cost Estimator to get an idea on the pricing variations between the three big cloud vendors. As prices are always subject to change, it’s worth going to both the Azure Pricing Calculator and the Google Cloud Pricing Calculator for up to date to date pricing

Pricing	Azure Blob Storage	Google Cloud Storage
Storage	$0.0184 – $0.045 per GB per month, based on storage tier and redundancy options	$0.020 – $0.026 per GB per month, based on storage class and redundancy options
Data Egress	$0.087 – $0.12 per GB, depending on data transfer volume	$0.12 – $0.23 per GB, depending on data transfer volume
Operations	First 10,000 operations per month free, then $0.004 per 10,000 operations	First 5,000 operations per month free, then $0.004 per 10,000 operations
Retrieval Fees	No retrieval fees for hot and cool tiers, $0.002 per GB for archive tier	No retrieval fees for multi-regional and regional storage classes, $0.01 per GB for nearline storage class, $0.05 per GB for archive storage class
Minimum Storage Duration	None	30 days for multi-regional and regional storage classes, 90 days for nearline and archive storage classes

GCP and Azure Use Cases

Azure Blob Storage and Google Cloud Storage can be used for various use cases, depending on the data storage needs of the business. Some common use cases for both services include:

Media Storage: Both Azure Blob Storage and Google Cloud Storage are ideal for storing and managing large media files such as images, videos, and audio files.
Backup and Archiving: Both services offer automatic backup and recovery options, making them ideal for businesses looking for a reliable backup and archiving solution.
Big Data Storage: Both services can be used for storing and managing big data sets, making them an ideal choice for businesses working with large amounts of data.
Web Content Storage: Both services can be used for storing and managing web content such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files.
IoT Data Storage: Both services can be used for storing and managing data generated by IoT devices, making them an ideal solution for businesses working with IoT data.

Use Case	Azure Blob Storage	Google Cloud Storage
Cloud backup and disaster recovery	Zone-redundant storage, geo-redundant storage, read-access geo-redundant storage	Multi-regional, regional
Web content storage and delivery	Content Delivery Network (CDN) integration, static website hosting	Content Delivery Network (CDN) integration, static website hosting
Data archiving and long-term storage	Archive storage tier	Nearline and archive storage classes
Analytics and big data processing	Azure Data Lake Storage for big data analytics	BigQuery for big data analytics
File sharing and collaboration	Azure File Sync for hybrid cloud file sharing	Google Drive for cloud file sharing
Internet of Things (IoT) data storage	Event Grid for real-time data processing	Cloud Pub/Sub for real-time data processing

This table provides a high-level comparison of some common use cases for Azure Blob Storage and Google Cloud Storage, and highlights some of the key strengths and differences between them. The best storage option for a particular use case will depend on a variety of factors, including the nature and volume of the data, the requirements for processing and analysis, and the desired access patterns and user experience

GCP and Azure FAQs

What is the difference between Azure Blob Storage and Google Cloud Storage?

Azure Blob Storage and Google Cloud Storage are two different cloud storage services offered by Microsoft and Google respectively. While both services offer similar features, their pricing models, and integration options differ slightly.

Which one is better – Azure Blob Storage or Google Cloud Storage?

The answer to this question depends on the specific data storage needs of the business. Azure Blob Storage is a good choice for businesses that require cost-effective, scalable, and secure storage options, while Google Cloud Storage is a good choice for businesses that require multi-regional storage options and seamless integration with other Google Cloud Platform services.

Can I use both Azure Blob Storage and Google Cloud Storage simultaneously?

Yes, it is possible to use both Azure Blob Storage and Google Cloud Storage simultaneously. This can be achieved by using third-party tools that offer cross-platform data management and migration services.

Both Azure Blob Storage and Google Cloud Storage are reliable and feature-rich cloud storage solutions that offer various benefits to their users. While both services offer similar features, they differ slightly in terms of pricing, integration, and storage options. Therefore, it is important for businesses to evaluate their specific data storage needs and choose a service that best fits their requirements. Ultimately, the decision between Azure Blob Storage and Google Cloud Storage comes down to the specific needs of the business, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

If you want to know how much Azure Storage you are consuming, give Cloud Storage Manager a trial. Cloud Storage Manager will show you in an easy to use console, exactly how much Azure Storage you are using, and where you can optimise and start saving money.

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Key Takeaways

How big are your Storage Accounts?

What are the benefits to knowing the size of your Azure Storage Accounts?

How to view Azure Storage Account sizes

Launch Cloud Storage Manager

Cloud Storage Manager Reports TAB

Cloud Storage Manager Reporting

All Storage Accounts listed by Size Report

All Storage Accounts listed by Size in Microsoft Excel

Storage Account Sizes Best Practices

Use tiered storage

Implement retention policies

Use auto-tiering

Compress data

Monitor usage

Use Azure Advisor

Follow security best practices

Conclusion

Azure Storage Unlocked

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Deleted Azure Storage Account Recovery

Understanding Azure Storage Accounts

Reasons for Deleting a Storage Account

Steps to Recover a Deleted Storage Account

Step 1: Check the Recovery Period

Step 2: Restore the Storage Account

Alternative Method to Recover a Deleted Storage Account

Best Practices to Avoid Accidental Deletion of Storage Accounts

Azure Storage Account Deletion RABC

Role-based access control (RBAC)

Resource locks

Owner

Contributor

Reader

User Access Administrator

Security Administrator

Network Contributor

CanNotDelete

ReadOnly

DoNotDelete

ReadOnlyWithCanNotDelete

Azure Storage Account Deletion FAQs

What is the recovery period for a deleted storage account in Azure?

How do I recover a deleted storage account?

How do I recover a deleted container in Azure storage?

What is soft delete in storage account?

What is the purpose of soft delete?

Azure Storage Account Recovery Periods

General-purpose v2

General-purpose v1

Blob storage

Premium performance v2

Azure Storage Account Deletion Further Reading

Microsoft documentation on recovering a deleted storage account

Microsoft documentation on soft delete for Azure Storage

Microsoft documentation on Azure Storage Explorer

Microsoft documentation on Azure PowerShell

Azure Storage Cost Optimisation Tool

Azure Storage Account Deletion Conclusion

Azure Storage Unlocked

Azure Files. Challenges and Solutions.

Challenges of Migrating On-Premises File Shares to Azure File Storage

Network Bandwidth:

Security Concerns:

Compatibility Issues:

Cost:

Solutions for Migrating On-Premises File Shares to Azure File Storage

Network Optimization:

Encryption and Security:

Compatibility Testing:

Cost Planning:

Azure Storage Explorer

Pros

Cons

Azure PowerShell

Pros

Cons

Azure Data Box

Pros

Cons