Azure Files is a cloud service that provides fully managed file shares using the industry-standard Server Message Block (SMB) and Network File System (NFS) protocols.  

The service allows organizations to remove file share infrastructure from on-premises data centers, without disrupting the user experience. Users can access Azure Files via Windows, Linux, and macOS, using the same familiar mounting, mapping, and navigation.

If local performance speeds are required, Azure File Sync provides multi-tier storage, where often-used files are cached within on-premises SMB file share servers while archived, rarely used files stay in the cloud. 

Azure Files provides an important step for organizations moving towards an all-cloud IT footprint. See how it helps progress toward that path in this short video. 

Benefits of Azure Files 

Lower costs than global file sharing and WAN optimization services 

Simpler backups, maintenance, and administration of a physical server, device, or appliance 

No loss in permissions or security 

No change in user experience

Organizations such as Spang & Company have leveraged Azure Files to simplify its on-premises footprint and administrative overhead. After Spang finished moving Exchange, SharePoint, etc. to Office 365, they next looked to optimize file sharing for their global engineering team. The results are outlined by VP of IT Brian Buddemeyer in this video case study.  

Technical Considerations of Azure Files

Some of the decisions and configurations involved include: 

1. Connectivity and integration to on-premises Active Directory 
2. VPN for end-user access 
3. DNS namespaces and routing 
4. Backup for files stored in Azure 
5. Cost and security controls 
6. Migration impacts on users and communicating the change 
7. Performance evaluation  
8. Integration with Windows Virtual Desktop