In the digital age, cloud computing has transformed how organizations manage their technology resources. The ability to access virtual servers and scalable services has allowed companies to innovate and optimize costs. However, despite the obvious benefits of using the cloud, there is a need to analyze the available options to choose the service that best suits the specific needs of each project. AWS (Amazon Web Services), Azure (Microsoft), and Google Cloud are three of the giants in this field. Each offers a wide range of services, but also presents its own particular challenges. Therefore, it is relevant to compare their features and performance to determine which may be more suitable for different scenarios.

Value Propositions

AWS offers a robust ecosystem, hosting an impressive number of services ranging from storage to advanced artificial intelligence solutions. Its market share, exceeding 30%, attests to its popularity. Furthermore, Azure integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft tools, making it a logical choice for companies already using products like Office 365 or Dynamics. Finally, Google Cloud Standard stands out for its analytical capabilities and for offering flexible solutions for large volumes of data thanks to its advanced infrastructure.

Comparative Table

FeatureAWSAzureGoogle Cloud
Share of Market32%20%9%
Ease of UseComplex InterfaceSimplified for Microsoft UsersIntuitive and User-Friendly
Services OfferedMore than 200 servicesNearly 100 ServicesApproximately 60 services

Performance and Scalability

Over time, studies have shown that AWS tends to have higher availability, given its focus on redundancy and disaster recovery. However, Azure has proven to be equally efficient, especially when optimized in Windows environments. Google Cloud provides particularly effective solutions for data analysis thanks to BigQuery, which raises a debate about whether a company should opt for a traditional approach or take advantage of the advanced analytical capabilities that Google offers.

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

Cost is a determining factor when selecting a provider. While AWS offers competitive pay-as-you-go pricing, many companies have reported unexpected bills due to additional, unforeseen costs. In comparison, Azure typically offers clearer pricing for those already integrated into its ecosystem; However, it can be more expensive if additional services not initially included are needed. Google Cloud positions itself as a cost-effective alternative by offering automatic discounts for long-term commitments. However, it\\\\\\\'s essential to emphasize that the choice between these platforms shouldn\\\\\\\'t be based solely on market share or initial costs. Each organization has unique requirements based on its industry and specific objectives. For example, a tech startup might find more value in Google Cloud due to its advanced analytics, while an established company already within the Microsoft ecosystem would likely prefer Azure. As technology advances and business needs evolve, so will the services offered by these platforms. It is vital to continuously monitor and evaluate whether the chosen provider continues to meet the changing demands of the business. Ultimately, the correct strategy is not to choose an “ideal” provider, but to understand how to combine different resources and capabilities to create a comprehensive solution. Smithson, K., & Blackwell, R. (2023). AWS vs Azure vs Google Cloud: A Competitive Analysis. Journal of Information Technology Research.