While many of our readers understand cloud computing and are experts working on numerous projects as Developers, Project Managers and CTOs, what should you consider when looking at cloud computing in terms of the bottom line from a business perspective. 

When it comes to business, whether you are working within a cloud computing environment or not you have to look beyond the brand name and do what’s best for you and your customers.

For example the three major players within the marketplace are AWS, Azure, and Google cloud - but, how do they all measure against each other from a business view point?

The fact that Amazon’s AWS server has had a seven-year head start traditionally makes it a better-known and more seasoned enterprise cloud platform. But, does this make it the best? 

Each of these “Big Three” business cloud service providers have benefits and drawbacks that may differ according to your own business requirements and goals. 

AWS: Amazon’s AWS Cloud system has the greatest reach expanding globally and availability of services, all while dominating the marketplace since their launch. 

Azure: Window’ Azure USP lies within their “built-in compatibility” since most companies already depend on Microsoft products for daily business operations. This strength has by default or not made them one of the easiest enterprise clouds when it comes to configuring and operation. 

Google Cloud: Google Cloud Platform also integrates its wide range of products and platforms, not to mention their ownership of the world’s two largest search engines, Google and YouTube. While Google Cloud Platform is the relative newcomer as far as IaaS providers go, it is considered to be an innovator when it comes to cloud-native business solutions.

All three platforms of course have elements in common, including a high level of scalability, speed, security, and agility. 

Their main computational services are where the differences could be a deal-breaker. For example, when we speak of Cloud - the primary reason businesses rely on the cloud is storage. 

Storage is the one of the top and greatest advantages of cloud computing and its expansive storage capabilities. 

So, which platform is the strongest?

Well, AWS offers the highest ranges of storage options, while Azure’s systems offer a more tailored service with their Data Lake solutions (which have been specifically designed for businesses with large and data rich applications). Google in comparison offers a lot less storage options, being that they are more unified and targeted.

While Azure offers the widest variety and sizes options, all three platforms include several types of databases in their own right. 

Backups systems also are an essential part of storage security and recovery features. However, it is worth noting that if you choose GCP you are on your own - meaning there are no backups available with this platform, at least for now! 

AWS backup systems have Glacier, but I would note that Azure is the strongest platform in this field too providing several backup solutions, including their archival storage product.

However, as you will see all three platforms have their own pros and cons - we have listed some important distinctions for you to consider also:  

AWS is a good fit if:

• You’re looking for more global reach.
• You want stable, reliable service from a cloud platform with the longest track record.
• You’re a larger company.

Azure is a good fit if:

• You’re migrating to the cloud for the first time.
• Most of your business apps and platforms are Windows-based.
• You’re looking for a hybrid solution.
• You’re a developer.

Google Cloud is a good fit if:

• Your company is already well ahead in digital migration and wants to become leaner and more cost-efficient.
• Your website works within a hyperscale networking environment.
• You develop and deploy cloud-based software and apps.
• You’re looking for a green tech solution.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing the right Cloud Platform we have illustrated that you need to consider how these different platforms fit into your business goals. Our goal with this head-to-head comparison is to help business owners like yourself make informed decisions.

If most of your business operations run on Microsoft products, Azure might work better for you. AWS has been around the longest but this won’t mean that it is necessarily better for your company. And businesses that need less reach and more innovation might prefer Google Cloud Platform. 

But in the end the choice is yours. So make sure you are choosing wisely.