In a significant move, Google has declared that users of its cloud services can now seamlessly transfer their data to another cloud service provider without incurring any data transfer fees.
This latest initiative by Google aims to simplify the process for customers looking to switch their cloud provider, offering a cost-free solution for data migration. However, the company acknowledges that this step alone doesn’t address the underlying challenge of restrictive and unfair licensing practices that hinder customers from choosing their preferred cloud provider initially.
Google Cloud customers leveraging services such as BigQuery, Cloud Bigtable, Cloud SQL, Cloud Storage, Datastore, Filestore, Spanner, and Persistent Disk are now eligible for free transfers out of Google Cloud. To initiate the transfer, customers need to apply for approval through a designated form, and once approved, they have a 60-day window to complete the data migration. If the allotted time elapses, a second request must be submitted.
Amit Zavery, Google Cloud’s GM/VP and Head of Platform, highlighted the move, stating, “At Google Cloud, we strive to support a thriving and open cloud ecosystem. The flexibility of the cloud should accommodate changes in customers’ business needs. Starting today, Google Cloud customers can migrate their data out of our platform to another provider or on-premises, benefitting from free network data transfer. This offer is applicable to customers worldwide.”
ALSO READ: CBN Sacks Boards of Union Bank, Keystone Bank and Polaris Bank
However, Zavery emphasized that while facilitating easier provider transitions is a positive step, true freedom of choice is impeded when customers are constrained by overly restrictive contracting terms or punitive licensing practices. He stressed the importance of customers selecting a cloud provider based on their business needs rather than being locked in by legacy providers.
Google underscores its commitment to fostering a cloud ecosystem that allows businesses and governments to scale their technology use seamlessly. The elimination of data transfer fees aligns with Google Cloud’s broader strategy to enhance value and data transfer capabilities for organizations of all sizes.
Key Points to Note:
- Google Cloud customers can now transfer their data to another provider without incurring data transfer fees.
- Eligible services include BigQuery, Cloud Bigtable, Cloud SQL, Cloud Storage, Datastore, Filestore, Spanner, and Persistent Disk.
- Approval through a designated form is required, and customers have a 60-day window to complete the data transfer.
- Google aims to address the challenge of restrictive licensing practices, emphasizing the importance of true customer choice.
Industry Insights:
- According to an IDC survey, 99% of cloud storage users have experienced egress fees, averaging 6% of their total cloud storage costs.
- In a poll by Global Market Intelligence, 34% of enterprises reported that egress fees impacted their use of cloud storage, leading to data repatriation or a shift to providers without egress charges.
