As organisations increasingly move their workloads to the cloud, transitioning on-premises file services has become a key focus. Many businesses depend on shared files for their daily operations, making it essential to migrate these services smoothly without causing major disruptions or added complexity.
For cloud-based file storage, there are two popular options - SharePoint Online (SPO) and Azure Files. While SharePoint Online excels in facilitating collaboration, it presents unique challenges when migrating large numbers of documents with complex cross-referenced formulas and file links. In such scenarios, migrating to SharePoint Online can lead to broken links and operational disruptions.
In contrast, Azure Files offers a more seamless and straightforward solution for these complex file dependencies. By allowing on-premises file services to migrate directly to the cloud with minimal changes, Azure Files preserves existing workflows and maintains familiar user experiences. This post explains why Azure Files is a robust alternative to SharePoint Online for file migrations, and how its authentication capabilities simplify access in hybrid cloud environments.
When SharePoint Online Falls Short
SharePoint Online is widely recognised for its effectiveness in document collaboration and management. However, certain migration scenarios can introduce complexities such as:
File link and formulas. Organisations often rely on Excel files with intricate links and formulas. Moving such files to SharePoint Online can risk breaking these links, causing errors and rework.
File quantity and structure. SharePoint’s structure and versioning are well-suited for collaborative environments but can become cumbersome when managing large file shares that require minimal reconfiguration.
IT management complexity. Configuring permissions, addressing file size limitations, and reorganising structures in SharePoint Online often require significant effort, adding complexity to migrations, which may not be suitable for businesses looking to quickly move their files without extensive re-engineering.
Recognising these challenges and limitations, some companies look for a simpler alternative: Azure Files.
Capabilities of Azure Files
Azure Files, a cloud-based file service from Microsoft, allows businesses to migrate on-premises file shares to Azure with minimal disruption. By supporting the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol, Azure Files maintains familiarity and continuity for users, making the migration feel nearly invisible to end-users.
Key benefits of Azure Files:
SMB compatibility. Azure Files uses the same SMB protocol as your on-premises file shares. This ensures that users can access files in familiar ways, reducing the need for training or reconfiguring applications.
No file re-engineering. There is no need to modify complex file/folder structures or documents with dependencies . Azure Files retains these dependencies and allows the links between them to be kept intact.
Hybrid capabilities. Azure Files is ideal for both cloud-only scenarios and hybrid environments, where businesses may choose to keep certain workloads on-premises while moving others to the cloud.
When migrating to the cloud, security and access control are top priorities. Azure Files offers several flexible authentication methods, allowing organisations to align access controls with their existing security policies.
Integration with Entra Domain Services or Active Directory
If your company uses Microsoft Entra ID, Azure Files offers a simplified authentication solution integrated directly with Microsoft Entra Domain Services (formerly known as Azure ADDS). This integration allows businesses to manage access using existing users and groups.
Azure Files can use Microsoft Entra ID credentials to control access, enabling seamless authentication for both Entra-joined and standalone machines. This makes it easier to manage file shares in environments where secure access is essential.
The same applies to hybrid scenarios where Active Directory (AD) is the primary identity provider. In this case Azure Files integrates directly with AD, providing seamless access from domain-joined machines.
Kerberos Authentication
Azure Files also employs Kerberos authentication, enhancing both security and ease of access. Kerberos allows for Single Sign-On (SSO), enabling users to authenticate seamlessly once logged into to their domain-joined devices. This eliminates the need to repeatedly enter credentials, offering both convenience and robust security.
For non-domain-joined machines or remote work scenarios, users can securely access Azure Files through Point-to-Site (P2S) or Site-to-Site (S2S) VPN connections. This ensures that all machines, regardless of their location, can securely connect to Azure Files while utilising the familiar SMB protocol.
The following diagram illustrates the flow of Kerberos authentication between the user, Microsoft Entra ID, Microsoft Entra Domain Services, and Azure Files:
Mapped Network Drives
After migrating to Azure Files, businesses can map their cloud-based file shares as traditional network drives on local machines. This setup provides familiar experience, as users can continue their day-to-day activities with cloud-based files as seamlessly as they did with on-premises shares.
NTFS Permissions
Azure Files supports NTFS permissions, allowing administrators to retain full control over file access and to significantly reduce the migration effort. By maintaining the same security and permissions model as with on-premises file shares, organisations benefit from a consistent and secure environment with the added advantages of cloud infrastructure.
Conclusion
For companies looking to migrate on-premises file shares to the cloud, Azure Files is a straightforward and scalable solution. By supporting familiar protocols like SMB and leveraging Kerberos-based authentication, Azure Files allows for efficient migrations with minimal disruption.
With seamless integration into existing workflows, Azure Files offers an intuitive user experience that reduces downtime and complexity. Its flexible authentication and scalable architecture make it an excellent choice for companies needing a cloud-based alternative to on-premises file storage.
If your business is considering cloud storage alternatives and you are concerned about the complexities of SharePoint Online for file-heavy workloads, Azure Files is a reliable alternative. Reach out to us if you need assistance getting started with migrating your file services to Azure.
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