On-Premises Storage vs. Object Storage – A Price comparison

On-Premises Storage vs. Object Storage (Head image)

When it comes to storing and managing data, there are two main options: on-premises storage and Object Storage. Both have their own set of benefits and drawbacks. Moreover the cost of each option can vary depending on a number of factors. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the costs of on-premises storage vs. Object Storage.

What is On-Premises Storage & why is it more expensive

On-premises storage refers to data storage that is physically located on your own premises, such as a server room or data center. This type of storage is typically more expensive than Object Storage. This is because of the upfront costs associated with constructing and equiping a server room. Also purchasing and maintaining the hardware, as well as the ongoing costs of electricity and cooling. Additionally, on-premises storage often requires additional staff to manage and maintain the hardware, which can also add to the cost.  

The Benefits of Object Storage

Object Storage, on the other hand, refers to data storage that is located off-premises, typically in the cloud. In this context “in the cloud” means in one or more data centers operated by someone else. This type of storage is generally less expensive than on-premises storage because the costs are spread across many users. For this storage the provider is responsible for managing and maintaining the hardware. Object Storage services also typically operate on a pay-as-you-go pricing model. This meansyou only pay for the storage you actually use.  

Price Comparison: Which is better?

When comparing the costs of on-premises storage vs. Object Storage, there are a few key factors to consider:  

  • Up-front costs: On-premises storage requires a significant up-front investment in hardware and infrastructure. Object Storage, on the other hand, can be scaled up or down as needed. This makes it more cost-effective as you grow.  
  • Flexibility: Object Storage services are typically more flexible in terms of access than on-premises storage. This is becausethey have robust access management tools and they are set up in a way that enables wide array of access levels.  
  • Data management: On-premises storage requires more resources to manage and maintain, which can add to the cost. Object Storage services typically offer built-in data management features, such as data replication and disaster recovery. This can help reduce the overall cost.  
  • Security: On-premises storage can be more secure as it’s under your direct control. However this requires additional resources to ensure security. Object Storage services typically offer a high level of security, but it’s necessary to check the provider’s security measures and evaluate the level of risk. 

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the cost of on-premises storage vs. Object Storage can vary depending on a number of factors. This included scale, accessibility, data management, and security. On-premises storage has a higher upfront cost and longer lead up times. At the same time Object Storage is more cost-effective as your storage needs evolve.

If Object Storage is right for you: Contabo has been offering Amazon S3-compatible Object Storage at favorable conditions for some time now. Click here to learn more.

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