hybrid or multi cloud

Increasingly businesses are relying on cloud-based storage to assist with the running and development of online applications. Choosing between hybrid or multi-cloud storage can seem overwhelming, but our simplified guide is here to help.

So, what are hybrid and multi-cloud storage solutions? Simply put, hybrid clouds utilise storage across an on-premises data centre and one public cloud. Multi-clouds use data stored across multiple public clouds, with data holders being able to move data depending on storage requirements.

Hybrid cloud solutions always include both public and private clouds whereas multi-cloud storage uses multiple public clouds and can be optimised to incorporate private clouds and physical structures. Multi-cloud storage usage tends to remain individual, with each cloud being operated within its own parameters. Hybrid clouds, however, tend to merge and operate in a hybridised environment.

Cloud performance depends on the construction cloud and varies between vendors. Hybrid cloud is seen as a safer option, with multi-cloud being useful for storing smaller data sets.

Cloud storage is becoming increasingly necessary for businesses owing to consumer demand for constantly running websites and applications. Using cloud storage has become imperative for many institutions whilst still managing data in their on-site centres.

What are the costs for hybrid or multi-cloud systems? 

Hybrid cloud is generally more expensive as it requires more infrastructure to help manage storage of data in multiple environments.

Multi-cloud is more cost effective particularly if you already use a public cloud. Payments for public cloud services are only made for services used without the upfront costs associated with implementing an on-site data centre for hybrid storage.

Using multi-cloud storage can become more expensive if you use both public and private clouds owing to the need to interact differently with providers. Multi-cloud is generally seen to have lower performance standards than hybrid cloud, which allows more control over data but can be far more costly owing to cost incurred from integrating cloud storage with existing data centres.

Storage & usage

Hybrid cloud users need to account for an inherent lagging between cloud providers, where it may be difficult to replicate large volumes of data between public and private clouds.

Departments in businesses may see cloud storage options different to one another. IT teams, for example, are tasked with managing the security and functionality of all IT systems including data storage. Commercial teams are intent on keeping up with our outrunning competition, driving demands and fast turnaround of applications.

This necessitates the needs for cloud-based applications and storage whilst in-house IT teams also manage the traditional on-site data centres and attempt to merge both solutions.

Hybrid clouds use different parts of an application and its management in different clouds, for example web services from a public cloud with data storage on a private cloud.

Multi-cloud structures on the other hand may use separate clouds for different products or applications, meaning some applications may operate and use resources entirely within a certain cloud and others in another cloud. Choosing either option depends on the functionality of your IT team and resources to manage cloud-based provision.


Hybrid cloud management tends to allow for more control over the locality of data which is key in combatting any discrepancies in data transfers.

Hybrid clouds are better resources for archiving data and recovering data in the event of loss or corruption. This also allows for ‘cloud bursting’ – maintaining applications in a private cloud until demand achieves a predetermined level, at which point they transfer to a public cloud. This is a useful asset for commercial teams keen on driving performance.

Industry requirements for managing data also need to be considered. Some organisations may have existing data centres and industry standards may govern specific types of data storage or management. In these cases, hybrid solutions would be a better option.

Multi-cloud storage should have carefully designed security requirements. Using multiple clouds means it may be easier to accidentally expose data that could cost a business its reputation. Processes need to be finalised and a security team implemented in order to manage potential exposure risks which may be an additional cost.

Overall there are different requirements, benefits, and drawbacks for both hybrid and multi-cloud storage solutions. As specialists in providing IT services to legal companies, we can assist you in understanding what’s best for your business. Contact us today with your queries about cloud storage solutions and we’ll provide you with independent advice and guidance.