Azure File Sync is one of the latest offerings from Microsoft Azure. This allows for the synchronization of all types of on-premises file services through Azure Files that are supported by the Storage Accounts. What many people don’t realize is that there are a few benefits offered by using this particular approach. For example, it can be used for the transition between cloud and on-premises, disaster recovery, and backup.
One of the things that is common for all scenarios is the ability it offers to move file server data to the cloud while reducing the costs on-site by removing all types of disaster recovery, backup requirements, and the file server. It is possible to find more about getting started with neteffect technologies and by reading the information here.
Create a Storage Account
Before starting the Azure File Sync, it is necessary to prepare the Storage Account that is going to receive the data from the on-premises File servers. It is a good idea to use GRS to ensure all the data being sent to the cloud does not have a single point of failure. Once this is done, it is time to press “create.”
After the creation of the Storage Account, which supports the Azure File Sync, it is necessary to replicate the share structure on-premises present in the Files.
1. Building the Azure File Sync
Once logged into the Azure Portal, click “New Resource,” type “File Sync,” and choose “Azure File Sync,” off the list. Next, choose “Create.” Once “Create” is clicked, it is necessary to create a name for the Azure File Sync, a location, and Resource Group. Once done, choose “Create” again to finish the process and then wait for the process to complete.
On the server, the first step is to install the “Storage Sync Agent.” To do this, ensure the AzureRM module has been installed. With the PowerShell cmdlet it is possible to install the needed module. There will be a few confirmations for the installation of new software that must be checked.
For situations where AzureRM is present, choose “Update-Module AzureRM” for confirmation that the latest versions are in place.
2. Guring Server Endpoints
Next, it is necessary to download and then install the Storage Sync Agent. The download has to be done based on the operating system used.
3. Creating the Sync Group
Once all downloads are complete and requirements are set, it is time to create the Sync group, which is where a user will define the cloud and server endpoints. To do this, click Sync groups in the Microsoft Azure portal. To begin the creation of an all-new one, click + Sync Group. Create a name and then define the cloud endpoint for it.
Once the creation is complete, the user will have a Sync Group with a single cloud endpoint that has been created. This is done by selecting Add server endpoint. Choose the registered server along with the path and then click Create.
Using this program offers a lot of advantages. However, to see what those advantages are, it is necessary to get to know the proper setup procedures A Microsoft Partner can help with these procedures apart from offering Azure Migration Services and setting up Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop.
