Does your organization need to store a lot of data? Depending on your use case, you may have a genuine choice between cloud file storage and on-premise file storage. In many scenarios, organizations choose a combination of both.

All options—cloud, on-premise, and hybrid—have distinct advantages and disadvantages. In this blog, we'll discuss a few of each strategy's benefits and drawbacks, as well as how to make the right decision for your organization.

So, if you are struggling to wrap your head around the whole data storage thing—read on!

The Case For On-Premise File Storage

On-premise file storage is a good fit for organizations that want to own the hardware that houses their data. Similarly, it provides a bit more control over your data, infrastructure, access, and so on.

You might want on-premise storage if you:

• Are contract-bound to keep your data on-premise at all times
• Have a legal obligation to store physical media
• Have too much data to manage and must store it physically

The main advantages of on-premises storage are:

• Cloud, internet security, and network issues won't prevent access to your data
• Tighter control over who has physical access to the data
• Fewer overall points of vulnerability

Overall, on-premise data storage is easy to set up and maintain if you have sufficient resources. On-premise data security is tight, and for many people, controlling the hardware on which their data is stored is as important as controlling the data itself.

Of course, there are downsides to on-premise storage. For one, the capital expenditure of buying servers and storage can add up quickly. Then, rent for warehouse square footage, utility bills, ongoing maintenance costs, and eventual upgrades all contribute to the operating costs.

On-premise storage is a great option for organizations that can afford high upfront costs and who prize complete ownership and control of their data. However, companies that want to minimize their CapEx, maintenance, and IT load may prefer cloud storage.

The Case For Cloud File Storage

Storing data in the cloud is generally more efficient to manage. After all, they're simply on-premise systems somewhere else that someone else is managing! That includes handling all the operational maintenance, which takes even more off your plate.

More importantly, cloud storage offers a cost-effective way to improve data redundancy, accessibility, availability, and, often, security.

With cloud-based file storage, you get:

• More options for storing data efficiently without the hassle of managing hardware
• More physical space in your facilities that you can use for other purposes
• Better overall accessibility with options for accessing data from virtually anywhere in the world
• Ease of use allows greater redundancy for business continuity and disaster recovery scenarios
• Control over who has digital access
• Reduced capital expenditure costs
• Easier and more efficient scalability
• More options for monitoring access and tracking activity

The main advantages of cloud over on-premise file storage are convenience and efficiency. Being able to easily access your data from anywhere has big advantages for smaller firms. It cuts down on the maintenance of a physical space to protect your data, and also helps preserve your data for long-term use.

Cloud storage options ensure you won't need to worry about the long-term viability of your on-premise solution—the vendor will keep everything secure and up to date with the latest, most relevant technology.

Of course, like every other storage method, the cloud has downsides. For example, the OpEx is usually a bit higher because it includes some of the hardware costs and maintenance. Also, it doesn't provide complete control over the infrastructure.

Nevertheless, what matters most is mitigating those trade-offs with strong security policies, processes, and procedures.

Hybrid Data Storage Options

Many organizations find that a combination of cloud and on-premise storage best fits their needs. Indeed, this does provide a "best of both worlds" scenario.

Hybrid systems also combine both sets of drawbacks. Still, they don't incur the significant costs of hosting a full data center, making the downsides less pronounced than with a complete on-premise storage solution.

Final Thoughts

There are distinct advantages (and disadvantages) to both on-premises and cloud storage and security methods. So, three guiding questions should lead you to the solution that best suits your needs:

1. What are your legal obligations?
2. Which option is more efficient?
3. Will either storage option still work for you in 10 years?

Want to learn more about data storage and security? We've got you covered. If you'd like to see how to maximize your value from data storage and security strategies, contact us for a consultation.