Essential steps for a successful cloud exit

A strategic approach to (partially) exiting the cloud is crucial for any company considering withdrawing some or all of its data storage from cloud environments. This process, better known as “cloud exit,” requires careful planning and execution. In this blog, we discuss the essential components of an effective cloud exit strategy that helps companies migrate their data safely and efficiently.

Detailed data mapping

Before a cloud exit can be performed, it is necessary to accurately map what data is stored where. This includes identifying all data flows, storage structures and dependencies within the cloud services. Detailed data mapping ensures that every piece of data is correctly identified and migrated, without overlooking anything.

Risk analysis and compliance checking

Every migration involves risk. It is essential to conduct a risk analysis that identifies potential security risks, data loss or business interruption during migration. In addition, compliance with all relevant laws and regulations must be ensured. This is especially important for companies operating in highly regulated industries.

Selection of technology and partners

Choosing the right technologies and partners is key to a successful cloud exit. This involves not only finding suitable on-premise or hybrid storage solutions, such as Silent Brick Pro, Silent Bricks and Silent Cubes, but also selecting migration tools and service providers experienced in complex data migrations.

Develop a detailed migration plan

An effective cloud exit strategy requires a detailed migration plan that includes the following elements:

• Timelines: When do what steps happen?
• Responsibilities: Who is responsible for each phase of the migration?
• Resources: What resources are needed to successfully execute the migration?

Testing and validation

Before the actual migration takes place, extensive testing should be performed to ensure that all systems and data are working as expected in the new environment. This includes validating data integrity after the migration to ensure that no data has been corrupted or lost.

Careful exit

A carefully planned cloud exit is a complex but necessary undertaking for companies seeking greater control and security of their data. By considering these essential components, companies can minimize risk and ensure a smooth and secure transition to a hybrid or on-premises data storage environment. In our next blog, we will expand on the rationale for a hybrid storage infrastructure.