Last week we told you in detail about Microsoft Azure and the features and benefits of this cloud computing platform. But of course, there are also a number of Azure alternatives, which have basically the same features or are just a little different. In this article, we would like to tell you a bit more about the similarities of and differences between Azure, AWS and Google Cloud, so that you can make an informed choice about which public cloud suits you.
Best-known cloud computing platforms
Basically, it is mostly chosen one of the following three options as a cloud computing platform.
- Microsoft Azure: Azure is a cloud computing platform offered by Microsoft. It offers over 40 solutions in application development, AI, cloud migration, infrastructure, security, analytics and more.
- Amazon Web Services (AWS): AWS is a cloud computing platform offered by Amazon. It offers a wide range of services and tools similar to those of Azure.
- Google Cloud Platform (GCP): GCP is Google’s cloud computing platform. Like the aforementioned platforms, it also offers various services, such as computing, storage, machine learning and data analytics.
Similarities Microsoft Azure, AWS en GCP
Of course, you can expect multiple deals between the above platforms. We zoom in on that first. We then talk about the differences AWS versus Azure versus Google Cloud.
1. Cloud computing platforms with range of solutions
The three platforms are known to offer a good solution for almost any cloud computing issue. For example, they offer application development solutions such as DevOps and testing. Of course, they also offer cloud migration and infrastructure setup, with backup and performance solutions.
2. Good security and updates
When it comes to security, you can expect plenty from these three. They are modern platforms that are constantly improving. Thus, they are constantly tightening security options and moving with the times. Through Artificial Intelligence (AI) and analytics functions, predictions can be made from data.
3. Easily scalable (up- and downscaling)
In addition, all three of these platforms are easy to scale up and down. That is, it is easy to add or remove users. Down to the smallest detail, it is possible to determine who has what access and rights. Moreover, adding additional users – once you are a customer – is relatively inexpensive.
Differences Microsoft Azure, AWS and GCP
While the platforms have many similarities, there are also differences. Moreover, they just excel again in other functions. We therefore tell each platform why it is a good choice and for whom.
Microsoft Azure: Software as a Service
Azure excels at SaaS, or Software as a Service. AWS does not offer this at all, Google Cloud does but in a different way. After all, what do we know Microsoft better for than the handy tools they provide! Microsoft Azure is simply the very best when it comes to integrating Exchange and Office applications and is known as a strong total package for all kinds of users.
- For whom: Logical choice for users of Microsoft software programmes.
- Pro’s: SaaS (also Microsoft 365) and is known for high service level agreement.
- Cons: Lots of options, which can be overwhelming (so expert needed).
Amazon Web Services: AWS Marketplace with infinite options
Surely Amazon Web Services is currently the biggest player and is known for adding new features quickly. These new products and services can be found in the AWS marketplace. Fans of management and reporting tools will also be delighted by this platform. Furthermore, it excels in hosting via dockers or containers. AWS does not offer a software package (Azure and GCP do).
- For whom: Big companies wanting infinite possibilities.
- Pro’s: Good at hosting, fast developments and many tools available.
- Cons: No SaaS and difficult to set up because of all the options (so expert needed).
Google Cloud Platform: Focus on artificial intelligence
Google Cloud Platform is the least large of the three mentioned, which you can also see as an advantage because it is therefore somewhat less comprehensive (therefore popular among start-ups). On the other hand, the options are also fewer. Moreover, GCP was last to market and has less experience than AWS and Azure. The power lies in the data analysis capabilities based on AI. In addition, it is the only one of the three to offer the option for live migrations of virtual machines. They also offer Google software similar to Microsoft 365 (Azure), although it is certainly not the same.
- For whom: Focuses on start-ups and (early stage) cloud-based companies.
- Pro’s: Relatively simple and cost-effective, AI focus, live migrations of virtual machines.
- Cons: Is smaller and younger, offering fewer features than AWS and Azure.
Other cloud platforms
Besides Microsoft Azure, AWS and Google Cloud, other cloud computing platforms exist. Below is an overview of some familiar names. Still, most companies looking for a public cloud do choose one of the three mentioned above.
- Alibaba Cloud: Alibaba Cloud is the cloud platform of Alibaba Group, one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world. It provides cloud solutions and services for businesses around the world.
- IBM Cloud: IBM Cloud offers a wide range of cloud services, including computing, data storage, artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT).
- Oracle Cloud: Oracle Cloud is a comprehensive cloud platform offering services in computing, storage, databases, analytics and more.
- DigitalOcean: DigitalOcean is a cloud platform that specialises in hosting virtual servers (droplets). It provides simple and scalable cloud solutions for developers.
- VMware vCloud: VMware vCloud is a cloud computing platform based on VMware’s virtualisation technology. It provides virtualised infrastructure and services for running and managing applications in the cloud.
Is a public cloud computing platform really the best option?
We have now presented you with a number of public cloud options, but it is interesting to note that you do not necessarily have to choose a public cloud. A public cloud basically stores data on a public server, where you pay per user and use the options from the provider. Little maintenance is required on a public cloud, as the cloud provider (such as Microsoft or Google) takes care of it.
But a public cloud also has some features that may not suit the organisation as well. Thus, you are always stuck with the options the cloud service in question has to offer, which will not be satisfying for every organisation. You can therefore also opt for a private cloud or a hybrid cloud (combination between private and public cloud).
Read more about the differences between private cloud, public cloud & hybrid cloud.
Engage independent cloud specialist
So you need to make the choice of public, hybrid or private cloud in the first place. If you prefer the public cloud, you still need to choose a provider. All in all, not an easy choice. It is therefore best to engage an independent cloud specialist. The latter has no interest in steering you in a certain direction, and can therefore advise you well on the best choice based on your needs and business structure.
Cloud360 is at your service and performs a free migration scan. So you will receive independent advice on the best choice for your cloud structure!