Azure File Storage

Azure File Storage is a service that allows you to create file shares in the cloud. It provides fully managed file shares that can be accessed via the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol and can be used for scenarios such as lifting and shifting applications to the cloud, sharing files across applications, and providing storage for cloud-based applications.

• Azure File Storage supports SMB 3.0 and REST APIs.
• Files can be accessed from anywhere in the world via SMB or REST.
• It is integrated with Azure Active Directory (AAD) for authentication.
• Offers redundancy options to ensure high availability.

Creating an Azure File Share

            graph TD;
                A[Start] --> B[Log in to Azure Portal];
                B --> C[Create a Storage Account];
                C --> D[Navigate to File Shares];
                D --> E[Create Share];
                E --> F[Configure Share Settings];
                F --> G[Finish Setup];
                G --> H[Access Share];
            

Steps:

1. Log in to the Azure Portal.
2. Create a new Storage Account or select an existing one.
3. Navigate to the "File shares" section in the Storage Account.
4. Click on "Create share" and enter a name for your file share.
5. Configure any additional options such as quota and access level.
6. Click "Create" to finalize the share creation.
7. Use the provided connection string or SMB path to access your files.

• Use Azure Blob Storage for unstructured data where possible to save costs.
• Implement access controls using Azure Active Directory.
• Regularly back up your data to ensure data integrity.
• Consider using Azure File Sync for hybrid scenarios.