Hi everyone! I'm curious about running a file server on Azure for about 3 TB of engineering and CAD files. I want to use it for workflows involving tools like EPLAN, AutoCAD, and MicroStation. I'm looking for real-world experiences—is there a setup that allows for quick file access, smooth saves, and no lag during daily tasks? If you've successfully implemented a solution—whether it's Azure Files, NetApp Files, AVD, or something else like a hybrid NAS—please share what worked for you, what didn't, and any relevant pricing details. How much are you typically spending on storage, performance, and backup for around 3 TB? Even rough estimates would help with budgeting!
3 Answers
I heard about an unfortunate experience with a client who tried using SharePoint for CAD files, and it was a disaster. Engineers faced constant lag, lost files, and some corruption issues. They eventually switched to Azure Files with a solid VPN setup, which helped, but it still wasn't ideal. The IT team ultimately spent a ton of time trying to make it work, but the engineers ended up getting their own high-end NAS. Lesson learned: make sure to choose a solution that truly fits engineering workflows instead of just following trends!
Before picking the best solution, consider how your users will access the files. Are they close by or spread out globally? Do you need fast access? Think about backups and permissions too. If you're looking for scalability and protection against ransomware, options like Nasuni might be worth your time. They handle backup and disaster recovery nicely, which could be great if you think global collaboration will be important for you in the future. But for now, if you need something straightforward, a traditional file server might be more practical.
True! There are a lot of factors to weigh besides just the storage type.
If you’re focused on performance, Azure NetApp Files could be your best bet. Just remember to set it up in the same zone as your AVD compute resources, and do extensive testing before finalizing the setup. It's super important to ensure it meets your needs!
Exactly, it’s all about what the engineers actually need rather than just jumping into a new fancy tech!