Introduction to Azure Files
Azure Files offers fully managed cloud file shares 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" legacy applications that rely on file shares to Azure without needing to rewrite them. Azure Files can be mounted concurrently by cloud or on-premises Windows, macOS, and Linux workloads.
What is Azure Files?
Azure Files is a cloud-native file storage service from Microsoft Azure. It provides a scalable, highly available, and secure file sharing solution that can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Replacing on-premises file servers.
- Storing configuration files for applications.
- Distributing large installation files.
- Providing shared access to data for multiple virtual machines or services.
Key Features
- SMB and NFS Support: Access your file shares using the protocols your applications already use.
- Managed Service: Azure handles the underlying infrastructure, patching, and maintenance.
- High Availability and Durability: Data is replicated to ensure availability and protection against data loss.
- Scalability: Easily scale your storage capacity and throughput as your needs grow.
- Security: Offers various security features, including Azure Active Directory integration, encryption at rest and in transit, and firewall rules.
- Hybrid Scenarios: Mount Azure Files shares from on-premises environments using Azure File Sync.
Use Cases
Azure Files is ideal for scenarios where shared file access is required:
- Application lift-and-shift: Migrate applications that depend on file shares to Azure without significant re-architecture.
- Shared configuration: Store application settings or configuration data in a central, accessible location.
- Development and testing: Provide shared storage for development teams or testing environments.
- Content sharing: Distribute content like website assets or media files.
Getting Started
To get started with Azure Files, you'll need to:
- Create an Azure Storage account.
- Create a file share within the storage account.
- Mount the file share to your client (VM, on-premises server, etc.) using SMB or NFS.
For detailed instructions, please refer to the How to Mount Azure Files guide.
Pricing
Azure Files pricing is based on the amount of data stored, the performance tier (Standard or Premium), and the amount of data transferred out of Azure. You can find more information on the Azure Files pricing page.