Fully managed cloud-to-cloud transfers with Azure Storage Mover
Move your data from File Shares and NAS Storage to Azure Object and File storage with minimal inconvenience.
In our rapidly evolving digital landscape, cloud strategies are adapting at breakneck speed. While some organisations are opting for multicloud environments, others aim for consolidation by moving their workloads to a single reputable platform. At Microsoft, we understand that the demand for secure, dependable, and efficient data transfer between platforms is crucial. We’re thrilled to announce the General Availability of cloud-to-cloud migration from AWS S3 to Azure Blob Storage using the Azure Storage Mover.
Since its debut in 2023, Azure Storage Mover has been a game changer for organisations of all sizes, streamlining on-premises data migrations. This service makes it quicker, safer, and easier to transfer large volumes of data to Azure. For those who may not be aware, Azure Storage Mover is a cost-free, fully managed migration tool aimed at transferring data from File Shares and NAS Storage into Azure Object and File storage with minimal disruption. It offers a reliable, efficient, and scalable solution via Azure’s centralised orchestration, all while preserving file metadata. Plus, it supports one-time migrations and synchronisation tasks without needing custom scripts or external tools.
The recent cloud-to-cloud migration feature in Azure Storage Mover allows for direct data transfers from AWS S3 to Azure Blob. Unlike migrations that involve on-premises setups, these cloud-to-cloud transfers do away with the necessity for a self-hosted agent, making setup easier and removing extra computational demands. This means lower infrastructure costs and less migration hassle; no agents, no scripts, and everything is managed for you. Here are some key features:
- Direct parallel transfers: With Storage Mover, you can benefit from high-speed, server-to-server parallel file transfers that enhance migration performance for large datasets.
- Integrated automation: Utilise the Azure portal or CLI for automated workflows and job tracking, ensuring metadata preservation without the need for scripts or third-party tools.
- Secure transfers: Every data transfer is encrypted during transit, and the service integrates with Azure’s robust security and compliance frameworks, such as Azure Active Directory, Multicloud Arc connector, and role-based access control (RBAC).
- Incremental sync: After the initial migration, Storage Mover can perform incremental syncs, transferring only the files that have changed to reduce downtime and ensure data consistency.
- Monitoring and observability: You can track migration progress via the Azure portal, CLI, or REST API, with integration into Azure Monitor and Log Analytics for in-depth telemetry and error reporting.
Real-World Impact: How Customers Are Accelerating Migration
During its public preview, customers have already taken advantage of cloud-to-cloud migration, transferring petabytes (PBs) of data from AWS to Azure. For instance, Syncro, in collaboration with SOUTHWORKS, successfully moved hundreds of terabytes from AWS S3 to Azure Blob with minimal downtime. Their phased migration approach, facilitated by Storage Mover, allows for intricate orchestration, ensures data integrity, and provides immediate access to Azure’s analytics and AI capabilities.
Syncro, a prominent provider of IT management solutions, encountered the challenge of transferring hundreds of terabytes of data from AWS S3 to Azure Blob. With Azure Storage Mover, SOUTHWORKS executed a successful pilot migration, moving 60 TB in the initial phase and planning further migrations for around 120 TB. The solution allowed for complex, staged migrations that maintained data integrity and provided immediate access to Azure’s advanced analytics and AI features.
— Johnny Halife, CTO, SOUTHWORKS
Not only does Azure Storage Mover simplify the migration process, but it also opens doors to a wider array of innovative opportunities, helping organisations maximise the potential of their data once it’s on Azure. By transferring AI training data into Azure Blob Storage, businesses can quickly tap into sophisticated artificial intelligence and machine learning tools. With instant access to powerful Azure resources, teams can develop, train, and deploy models on a large scale, accelerating insights and innovation across the Azure ecosystem.
Additional Product Updates
We’re also pleased to share some exciting new features for Azure Storage Mover, including support for a wider range of source and target pairs:
- Coming soon: Availability of Storage Mover in Azure US Government regions.
Ready to Modernise Your Data Estate?
The Azure Storage Mover’s cloud-to-cloud migration capabilities are now ready to help simplify your multicloud journey and speed up your digital transformation. Start your journey today!
