Azure Files Overview
Azure Files offers the industry's first fully managed cloud file share service. It provides fully managed file shares in the cloud that are accessible via the industry-standard Server Message Block (SMB) protocol and Network File System (NFS) protocol. This means you can "lift and shift" applications that rely on file shares to Azure without significant code changes.
Azure Files can be mounted concurrently by multiple client applications, whether they are running in the cloud or on-premises. This makes Azure Files ideal for a variety of workload scenarios, including shared configuration files, application development and debugging, media processing, and data backup.
Key Features
Fully Managed Service
Eliminate the need for managing underlying hardware or software for your file shares.
SMB and NFS Support
Access shares using industry-standard protocols, enabling seamless integration with existing applications and tools.
Hybrid Cloud Capabilities
Mount shares from on-premises Windows, macOS, and Linux systems, as well as from Azure VMs.
Scalability and Performance
Dynamically scale your storage capacity and throughput to meet evolving needs.
Redundancy and Durability
Benefit from built-in data redundancy for high availability and durability.
Secure Access
Integrate with Azure Active Directory for robust identity and access management.
Common Use Cases
Lift and Shift Applications
Migrate applications that depend on file shares to Azure without extensive refactoring.
Shared Configuration Files
Provide a centralized location for applications and services to access common configuration data.
Development and Debugging
Enable developers to easily share code, tools, and debugging artifacts across multiple development environments.
Media Processing Workflows
Support content delivery networks (CDNs) and media rendering farms that require shared file storage.
Data Backup and Archiving
Utilize Azure Files as a destination for on-premises or cloud-based backups.
Getting Started
Azure Files offers a simple and cost-effective way to manage your file storage needs in the cloud. Explore the following resources to learn more and begin using Azure Files:
- Learn more about Azure Files features and benefits.
- Create your first Azure File share.
- Mount an Azure File share to your Windows, Linux, or macOS client.