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Is Hetzner a Good Alternative to AWS? Cases on Hetzner by Gart Solutions

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Is Hetzner a Good Alternative to AWS? Cases on Hetzner by Gart Solutions

Fedir Kompaniiets

DevOps and Cloud Architecture Expert Co-founder of Gart

July 2, 2025

Table of contents

Understanding the Cloud Landscape
Hetzner – The Underdog Gaining Momentum
Why Companies Seek AWS Alternatives
Gart Solutions’ Cloud Philosophy
Choosing Hetzner – Strategic Reasoning
Case Study #1 – High-Traffic Gaming Workloads
Case Study #2 – Scaling a Global Environmental Platform
Case Study #3 – DevOps in Digital Betting
Comparing AWS and Hetzner Head-to-Head
When to Choose Hetzner Over AWS
Final Thoughts – Hetzner Is a Smart, Scalable Choice

AWS offers unmatched scalability, global reach, and a vast suite of services, but these come at a price. For many companies, especially startups and those with high bandwidth or compute needs, AWS becomes a budget-burning monster. That’s where Hetzner, a German cloud and dedicated server provider, starts turning heads.

Gart Solutions has been making waves by strategically shifting away from hyperscale providers like AWS to cost-effective, performance-optimized alternatives like Hetzner.

So, is Hetzner just cheaper, or actually better in some scenarios? Let’s break it all down by diving into real-world deployments, cost comparisons, and expert insights from how Gart Solutions has deployed Hetzner in production environments with striking success.

Understanding the Cloud Landscape

AWS – The Industry Giant

There’s no denying AWS is the gold standard in cloud computing. With over 200 services spanning compute, storage, networking, databases, machine learning, and more, AWS supports everything from nimble startups to multinational conglomerates. It offers enterprise-level reliability, granular security controls, and geographic coverage that stretches across every continent.

But with this enormous toolset comes equally massive complexity — and cost. AWS operates on a “pay-as-you-go” model that can seem fair in theory, but often ends up being unpredictable and overwhelming.

Egress (outbound traffic) charges, for instance, can be a nightmare for businesses that distribute large files, stream content, or run high-traffic platforms.

And while AWS excels at handling massive scale, its complexity sometimes makes it a burden for smaller teams or simpler projects.

Hetzner – The Underdog Gaining Momentum

Hetzner may not have the same market share as AWS, but it’s quietly become a favorite among developers, startups, and cost-conscious enterprises across Europe and beyond. Known for its nonsense pricing model and high-performance dedicated servers, Hetzner offers both bare-metal and cloud services at prices that often make AWS look like luxury shopping.

Where AWS offers nearly everything, Hetzner focuses on doing fewer things extremely well. It excels in areas like raw compute power, consistent bandwidth, and high-speed networking — all while charging a flat monthly fee or minimal hourly rates. And unlike AWS, Hetzner includes generous traffic allowances (often unlimited), which makes it especially appealing for applications with high outbound data needs.

And while Hetzner doesn’t match AWS in the breadth of services, it integrates smoothly with modern DevOps tooling, like Terraform, Kubernetes, Docker, and CI/CD pipelines, making it highly attractive to teams that want performance without vendor lock-in.

Why Companies Seek AWS Alternatives

The High Cost of AWS

It’s not just small businesses complaining about AWS pricing — it’s a known industry pain point.

Let’s say you’re running a content delivery app or SaaS platform — each gigabyte of outbound data gets billed separately. Now imagine 100,000 users downloading or streaming from your app. Suddenly, your monthly cloud costs double, even if your user base hasn’t changed.

This pricing structure often penalizes growth. The more successful your application, the more you pay — not because you’re consuming more compute, but because data transfer is metered heavily.

And then there’s the operational cost of managing AWS. It often takes a team of certified engineers just to maintain and optimize configurations, spot underutilized resources, and ensure security best practices. That’s a hidden cost many businesses overlook.

Performance vs. Price Dilemma

One of the major paradoxes with AWS is that while it promises performance, it charges a premium for consistency. Your EC2 instance might perform well today and lag tomorrow due to noisy neighbors (multi-tenant environments). You can pay more for “dedicated” resources, but that quickly spirals out of budget.

With Hetzner, the opposite is often true. You get powerful bare-metal servers or consistently high-performance VMs without needing to guess on pricing tiers. This predictability, both in cost and performance, is a major reason companies start looking beyond AWS.

Gart Solutions’ Cloud Philosophy

Gart Solutions specializes in helping clients modernize IT infrastructure, adopt DevOps best practices, and scale without breaking the bank. Our philosophy revolves around optimizing every layer of the cloud stack — from infrastructure provisioning to deployment pipelines, while keeping budgets in check.

Rather than defaulting to AWS because it’s the “safe choice,” Gart Solutions evaluates each client’s real needs: traffic patterns, performance requirements, cost sensitivity, and automation goals. This leads us to seek infrastructure that aligns more closely with the business model and technical demands of the project.

Choosing Hetzner – Strategic Reasoning

For many of their client projects, Gart Solutions identified Hetzner as the perfect balance of affordability, reliability, and flexibility. The decision to go with Hetzner wasn’t just about cost (though that played a big part). It was also about control, automation, and the ability to manage infrastructure using familiar tools like Terraform, Kubernetes, and Ansible.

By choosing Hetzner, they could build resilient, scalable infrastructure that’s just as capable as AWS-hosted setups but without the headache of unpredictable billing. Whether they were optimizing CI/CD workflows or deploying complex container orchestration, Hetzner’s clean infrastructure model made it easier to build, manage, and maintain robust cloud environments.

They also appreciated that Hetzner doesn’t charge for traffic — making it a godsend for media-rich apps, SaaS tools, gaming platforms, and IoT systems.

Case Study #1 – High-Traffic Gaming Workloads

The Challenge with AWS

Imagine you’re launching a gaming platform where users can download large files ranging from 500MB to 1GB. Now imagine 20,000 users doing that repeatedly during a promotional campaign. On AWS, this means enormous outbound data charges.

That’s exactly the problem one Gart Solutions client faced. They had projected annual revenues of about $80,000 from free-to-play game trials, but AWS’s pricing would have eaten up over 60% of that —just from data egress costs.

Using AWS’s EC2 instances and S3 storage initially seemed like a safe, scalable choice. But the hidden cost of bandwidth, especially when the business model relies on large, frequent downloads — was a dealbreaker. Gart quickly realized that if the client stuck with AWS, the entire revenue model would collapse under operational expenses.

Migration to Hetzner

Gart Solutions proposed a switch to Hetzner Cloud. Why? Because Hetzner offers uncapped bandwidth with minimal restrictions and flat-rate pricing, perfect for handling enormous traffic at predictable costs. They rebuilt the platform using a combination of Hetzner’s dedicated servers and cloud instances, optimizing download performance through fast SSD storage and CDN acceleration.

To ensure reliability, they implemented failover systems, load balancing, and efficient caching layers. The infrastructure was containerized, making it portable, scalable, and fast to deploy. With Terraform and Docker in place, infrastructure updates could happen in seconds, ensuring seamless rollouts and minimal downtime.

Results and Metrics

Cost Reduction: data traffic expenses dropped by nearly 80% compared to AWS.

Performance: download speeds remained consistent, averaging ~200MB/s per node.

User Experience: zero downtime during traffic surges; smoother gameplay initiation.

Business Impact: client retained a much healthier margin, making the game trial monetization strategy sustainable.

Hetzner didn’t just replace AWS, it enabled a business model that AWS pricing would have killed.

Case Study #2 – Scaling a Global Environmental Platform

Elandfill.io’s Expansion Needs

ReSource International approached Gart Solutions with a clear mission: scale their landfill management software — elandfill.io from local installations in Iceland to a full-scale global SaaS platform. The challenge wasn’t just scaling users; it involved handling enormous datasets including geospatial images, gas emissions records, real-time weather monitoring, and predictive analytics across multiple time zones.

The backend involved PostgreSQL with PostGIS, map rendering, data ingestion pipelines, and alert systems for environmental safety —all of which needed to work in real-time. Doing this on AWS was certainly an option, but the potential cost and service complexity threatened to overwhelm the project in its infancy.

How Hetzner Met the Challenge

Gart Solutions architected the entire SaaS platform on Hetzner Cloud using Kubernetes for orchestration. They built modular services for monitoring, alerting, analytics, and rendering, ensuring the architecture was elastic and easy to maintain.

Key elements included:

Geoserver Optimization: efficient handling of map tile generation and caching.

CI/CD Pipelines: automated testing, deployment, and rollback.

Monitoring & Alerting: Prometheus and Grafana stack for full observability.

They made use of Hetzner’s reliable network and data centers in Germany and Finland to ensure low-latency performance across Europe. For clients outside Europe, the solution was containerized and easily deployable in hybrid-cloud models if needed.

Business Outcomes

Scalability: platform scaled from 1 to 14 countries without downtime.

Affordability: hosting cost reduced by more than 60% compared to initial AWS projections.

Real-Time Data: improved latency and faster alerts for environmental breaches.

Sustainability: the low-cost footprint aligned perfectly with the client’s green tech values.

Hetzner helped turn a local environmental tool into a global digital platform, without the AWS price tag.

Case Study #3 – DevOps in Digital Betting

Betting Platform Infrastructure Problems

A Germany-based digital betting provider was struggling with an outdated infrastructure. They were operating on bare-metal Windows servers, had no automation for deployments, and scaled poorly during live sports events. Everything was done manually — from patches to provisioning. Each code change risked downtime, and traffic spikes during major sports matches regularly crashed the system.

Their CI/CD pipeline was virtually nonexistent, and their infrastructure couldn’t support high availability or disaster recovery effectively. The business risk was high and escalating.

Full DevOps Makeover with Hetzner

Gart Solutions rebuilt the architecture from the ground up, starting with a migration to Hetzner’s Linux-based virtual servers. The transformation was executed in three phases:

Mapping Service Dependencies: they audited the system’s critical services, establishing what needed to be containerized and how to break the monolith.
Infrastructure-as-Code: using Ansible and Terraform, they automated provisioning and configuration. This reduced deployment times from days to minutes.
Kubernetes & CI/CD: they rolled out Kubernetes clusters to support containerized workloads, introduced GitLab CI pipelines, and set up observability tools (Prometheus, Loki, Grafana).

Disaster recovery, blue-green deployments, and A/B testing became part of the operational DNA.

Uptime, Performance, and Deployment Success

Uptime: 99.97% availability across 12 months.

Speed: Deployment times reduced from 48 hours to under 10 minutes.

Traffic Handling: Load testing showed platform stability during 3x normal traffic.

Operational Efficiency: Engineers gained back 30+ hours/month previously spent on manual deployments.

Hetzner + Gart’s DevOps framework turned a fragile betting platform into a modern, resilient, cloud-native powerhouse.

Comparing AWS and Hetzner Head-to-Head

Cost Structure

If you have high or unpredictable outbound traffic, Hetzner wins hands down.

Performance and Reliability

While AWS offers near-100% uptime SLAs, Hetzner has proven reliability across use cases.

Benchmarks from Gart Solutions show Hetzner’s VMs and bare-metal instances match AWS in I/O speed and network throughput, especially for European users.

DevOps Compatibility

Both support modern DevOps stacks, but AWS has its own ecosystem (CodePipeline, CloudFormation) while Hetzner integrates openly with popular tools like Terraform, Ansible, and Kubernetes.

So, AWS is more integrated but less flexible. Hetzner allows full control.

When to Choose Hetzner Over AWS

Ideal Use Cases

Let’s be honest — no single cloud provider is the right answer for everyone. But if your use case aligns with one or more of the following, Hetzner might just be your secret weapon:

High-Bandwidth Applications
Streaming platforms, file-sharing systems, gaming platforms, or SaaS products with large downloads benefit massively from Hetzner’s free, uncapped outbound traffic.

Budget-Conscious Startups
If you’re just launching a product or bootstrapping your business, AWS costs can be punishing. Hetzner’s flat-rate pricing lets you plan and scale without unpredictable bills.

Self-Managed DevOps Environments
Teams that love working with Terraform, Ansible, Kubernetes, and Docker will feel right at home. Hetzner’s clean infrastructure gives you full control, no managed service lock-ins.

Edge and Regional Deployments
With Hetzner’s growing global footprint (Germany, Finland, and now the U.S. and Singapore), deploying regionally for latency-sensitive apps is very feasible.

SaaS Builders Looking for Control
If your app needs custom infrastructure or tight observability (without vendor APIs), Hetzner gives you the hardware feel in a cloud package.

When AWS Still Wins

However, there are situations where AWS remains the better option:

Need for Managed Services
AWS offers robust managed databases, serverless architecture, AI/ML platforms, and global CDN options that Hetzner doesn’t match.

Regulatory Compliance & Certifications
If your app requires SOC 2, HIPAA, FedRAMP, or other high-level certifications, AWS provides pre-approved infrastructure for compliance-heavy workloads.

Enterprise Multi-Region Scaling
For companies operating across 10+ countries with users worldwide, AWS’s global data centers and traffic routing give them an edge.

If you want flexibility and control at a fraction of the cost, Hetzner is excellent. If you need managed magic and global compliance, AWS is king.

Final Thoughts – Hetzner Is a Smart, Scalable Choice

Here’s the bottom line: Hetzner is not a universal replacement for AWS, but in the right hands, it becomes a cloud powerhouse, especially when paired with smart implementation partners like Gart Solutions.

Through three real-world case studies, we’ve seen:

Case 1: How a gaming company salvaged its monetization model by eliminating bandwidth fees.

Case 2: How a green tech startup scaled globally with geospatial data, using Kubernetes and Hetzner’s compute flexibility.

Case 3: How a legacy betting platform transformed into a fast, scalable, DevOps-driven cloud app with zero AWS involvement.

Hetzner isn’t about bells and whistles. It’s about raw performance, predictable pricing, and giving engineers the tools they need without handholding. And when paired with a team like Gart Solutions, it doesn’t just save money.

So, is Hetzner a good alternative to AWS?

Absolutely. Especially when every dollar, every millisecond, and every gigabyte counts.

There are some thoughts of other users on Reddit, we’ve checked to provide you with the most complete picture on choosing a cloud provider. Link to Reddit thread.

FAQ

Is Hetzner cheaper than AWS?

Yes, Hetzner is significantly cheaper than AWS. Users often report cost savings of 50–70%, especially for compute-heavy or bandwidth-intensive workloads. Hetzner includes traffic in its pricing, while AWS charges separately for data transfer, storage, and other services.

How does Hetzner performance compare to AWS?

Hetzner offers excellent performance for most standard workloads, including web apps, databases, and containers. However, AWS provides better performance scaling and global consistency for large distributed systems. Hetzner is ideal for projects that need strong performance within Europe at a lower cost.

Can I run Kubernetes on Hetzner instead of AWS EKS?

Yes. You can deploy Kubernetes clusters on Hetzner using tools like Rancher, kubeadm, or Terraform. While Hetzner doesn’t offer a managed Kubernetes service like AWS EKS, many teams run production-grade clusters successfully with manual configuration or open-source orchestration tools.

What managed services does Hetzner offer compared to AWS?

Hetzner provides basic managed services such as managed servers, storage volumes, DNS, and private networks. However, it lacks the extensive catalog AWS offers—like managed databases (RDS), AI/ML services, serverless options, and enterprise support layers. Hetzner is more hands-on and developer-driven.

Where are Hetzner data centers located vs AWS availability zones?

Hetzner has data centers in Germany (Nuremberg and Falkenstein) and Finland (Helsinki). AWS has a global presence with over 30 regions and 100+ availability zones across North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Hetzner is best for EU-based workloads and latency-sensitive European deployments.

Is Hetzner secure and GDPR-compliant like AWS?

Yes. Hetzner is GDPR-compliant and offers data hosting within the EU, making it suitable for European businesses handling sensitive data. It provides basic security features (firewalls, private networking), but lacks AWS’s advanced IAM, key management, and compliance certifications like HIPAA.

Are there hidden costs with Hetzner (like storage or egress fees)?

Hetzner is transparent in its pricing, with flat fees that include traffic and predictable compute/storage costs. However, users should watch for edge cases—such as charges for idle or empty storage buckets on the Hetzner Storage Box and limited snapshot functionality that may incur additional effort.

Can I build a hybrid setup using Hetzner and AWS together?

Yes. Hybrid cloud setups are possible using container orchestration (like Kubernetes), VPNs, or tools like Terraform and Ansible. While Hetzner doesn’t have native multi-cloud services, its infrastructure can be integrated with AWS to offload workloads, backups, or staging environments.

Is Hetzner a good fit for enterprise-scale workloads?

Hetzner works well for many enterprise use cases — especially in Europe — but lacks some of the compliance, global support, and managed services enterprises may require. It’s a strong option for cost-sensitive departments, dev/test environments, or edge deployments when global scale isn’t critical.

Do people migrate from AWS to Hetzner — and why?

Yes. Many startups and even mid-sized companies migrate from AWS to Hetzner to reduce infrastructure costs and simplify operations. Common reasons include high AWS bills, excessive complexity for basic workloads, and a preference for predictable pricing and EU-based data residency.

Cloud

Why EU Companies Might Choose Private Clouds Despite the Obvious Advantages of Public Clouds

Fedir Kompaniiets

June 17, 2025

As the cloud computing market continues to grow, businesses face a critical decision: which type of cloud deployment best suits their needs? Public clouds like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud dominate the global market, offering scalability, flexibility, and cost savings. Yet, many European companies opt for private clouds. Here’s a deep dive into why private clouds are gaining traction despite the apparent advantages of public cloud platforms. 1. Data Sovereignty and Compliance European companies operate under stringent data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which governs how personal data is stored and processed. Private cloud providers like OVHcloud, Scaleway, and Ionos ensure data remains within European jurisdictions, simplifying compliance and avoiding extraterritorial laws like the U.S. CLOUD Act. Key Statistics: 45% of EU enterprises used cloud computing services in 2023, a 4.2% increase from 2021. GDPR compliance is a top priority, especially for sectors like healthcare and public administration. By leveraging private clouds, EU companies can mitigate risks associated with non-EU regulations, ensuring full control over their data. 2. Cost Efficiency for High-Traffic Workloads While public clouds use a pay-as-you-go model, hidden costs—such as data transfer fees—can quickly escalate, especially for businesses with heavy traffic. Private cloud providers offer predictable pricing structures, making them cost-effective for industries like gaming, streaming, and SaaS. Hetzner Online (Germany) provides scalable solutions at transparent rates, avoiding unexpected costs for bandwidth or storage. Example:A gambling company that initially planned to deploy their platform on AWS found that traffic costs would make their business model unsustainable. By switching to Hetzner’s private cloud, they significantly reduced infrastructure costs and ensured long-term profitability despite high traffic volumes from non-paying users. Read the full case study here. 3. Localized Infrastructure and Support Private cloud providers maintain data centers across Europe, reducing latency for local users—a critical factor for e-commerce and gaming industries. Case Studies: UpCloud (Finland) utilizes maxIOPS technology for superior speed. Ikoula (France) offers eco-friendly practices alongside GDPR compliance. With dedicated customer support tailored to regional needs, EU-based private cloud providers ensure a more personalized and efficient service. 4. Customization and Control Unlike public clouds, private clouds allow businesses to tailor infrastructure to their specific requirements. This flexibility extends to dedicated resources, ensuring consistent performance and reliability. Example: Scaleway provides Kubernetes-based solutions, enabling companies to customize setups without vendor restrictions. Organizations can align their cloud environments with their operational goals, optimizing for security, performance, and cost. 5. Avoiding Vendor Lock-In Public cloud providers often rely on proprietary technologies, creating dependencies that can limit flexibility and increase costs over time. Private clouds leverage open-source platforms like OpenStack and Kubernetes, reducing long-term risks. Insight: OpenStack enables businesses to deploy private clouds with features comparable to public cloud environments. Kubernetes standardizes container orchestration, ensuring portability and consistency across deployments. This freedom allows companies to adapt their infrastructure as needed, avoiding the pitfalls of vendor lock-in. 6. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Sustainability is a growing priority for European businesses. Many private cloud providers, such as Greenhost and OVHcloud, prioritize renewable energy and eco-friendly practices. Fact: The European Commission’s IPCEI-CIS initiative has allocated €1.2 billion to develop cutting-edge cloud and edge technologies, emphasizing sustainability and digital sovereignty. By choosing private clouds, companies align with their environmental goals while supporting regional innovation. 7. Geopolitical Stability European companies face risks associated with geopolitical tensions and trade restrictions affecting non-EU providers. Private clouds mitigate these risks by ensuring data sovereignty and compliance with local regulations. Comparison of EU-Friendly Private Cloud Providers and Hosting Solutions ProviderKey FeaturesWhy ChooseOVHcloud (France)Private cloud, public cloud, bare-metal servers. Competitive pricing, strong emphasis on data sovereignty.Ensures GDPR compliance, robust European presence with numerous data centers.Scaleway (France)Private cloud, bare-metal servers, Kubernetes-based solutions.Simple, competitively priced, and sustainable. Popular with startups and SMBs in Europe.Ionos by 1&1 (Germany)Private cloud, managed hosting, enterprise cloud services.GDPR-compliant, excellent customer support, cost-effective for high-performance workloads.Leaseweb (Netherlands)Private cloud, bare-metal servers, hybrid cloud setups.Flexible infrastructure, transparent pricing, ideal for traffic-heavy workloads.Hetzner Online (Germany)Private cloud, dedicated servers, colocation services.Predictable pricing, cost-efficient for scalable solutions.UpCloud (Finland)High-performance private cloud and virtual servers with maxIOPS technology.Reliable, simple, competitive pricing, EU-based data centers.Vultr (Global, EU Presence)Private cloud, bare-metal servers, strong European presence.Flexible plans, transparent pricing for cost optimization.DigitalOcean (Global, EU Data Centers)Cloud services for developers, startups, small businesses.Simple pricing, user-friendly, with EU data center options.Linode (Akamai Cloud) (Global, EU Locations)Private cloud, virtual servers, developer-friendly approach.Affordable, reliable hosting, European data centers, and enhanced global reach under Akamai.Greenhost (Netherlands)Secure, sustainable hosting services, private cloud, managed hosting.Ideal for sustainability-focused, GDPR-compliant companies.Ikoula (France)Private cloud, managed servers, VPS solutions, eco-friendly practices.Affordable, customer-focused, ideal for European businesses.These providers offer scalable, GDPR-compliant, and cost-effective infrastructure solutions for high-traffic businesses while reducing dependency on U.S.-based public cloud services. Despite their advantages, private clouds come with challenges: Initial Costs: Significant upfront investment in hardware and infrastructure. Expertise Requirements: Skilled personnel are essential for managing complex environments. Scalability Limitations: Scaling resources in private clouds is less flexible compared to public clouds. Conclusion For European businesses, private clouds offer a compelling alternative to public clouds, combining data sovereignty, cost efficiency, customization, and sustainability. By addressing unique regional needs and regulatory requirements, private clouds empower companies to maintain control over their infrastructure while fostering innovation and resilience.

Cloud

DevOps

European Tech Independence & Cloud Control: What Are Europe’s Alternatives for Achieving Digital Autonomy?

Fedir Kompaniiets

June 6, 2025

Data is power. But in Europe, much of that power is still in foreign hands. Despite Europe’s strong regulations and fast-growing tech sector, the continent remains heavily dependent on cloud services from American companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google. While American these tech giants dominate the cloud computing landscape, European leaders are asking a crucial question: How can Europe achieve true digital independence without sacrificing innovation and economic growth? Can Europe really call itself digitally sovereign? Why Digital Sovereignty Matters Digital sovereignty means having control over your digital infrastructure — including where your data is stored, how it is protected, and who can access it. It’s not about isolation. It’s about resilience, freedom of choice, and protection from external risks. Today, the situation looks troubling: 92% of Western data is hosted in the U.S. 80% of global cloud data is controlled by just five non-European companies Microsoft and Amazon alone control 38% of the European cloud market That means that even if your data is physically stored in Europe, it may still be under the legal reach of U.S. authorities — thanks to laws like the CLOUD Act and FISA 702, which allow American surveillance of data stored abroad by U.S. companies. The problem goes beyond simple market competition. When critical data and digital infrastructure rely on foreign-controlled systems, Europe loses control over its digital destiny. Sensitive government information, business data, and personal information of European citizens flow through systems governed by foreign laws and policies. Digital sovereignty isn't just about nationalism – it's about practical control and security. When a European hospital's patient records are stored on American servers, or when a government's classified information passes through foreign-controlled networks, real questions arise about privacy, security, and independence. The EU's digital sovereignty agenda aims to reduce reliance on foreign technology, enhance infrastructure, and address privacy concerns while facing challenges from U.S. and Chinese dominance. This isn't about shutting out the world, but about having genuine alternatives and maintaining strategic autonomy. “Europe missed the first wave of the cloud. If we miss the second one, we’ll be stuck in digital dependency.” – Thierry Breton, EU Commissioner for the Internal Market Real Risks from Real Cases This isn’t just a theoretical concern. Several well-known cases have exposed how foreign control over cloud infrastructure can impact European users: The Microsoft Ireland case: U.S. officials requested access to emails stored on Irish servers. This raised alarm about how far U.S. legal power can reach. The Privacy Shield collapse: An EU-U.S. data-sharing deal was invalidated because U.S. surveillance conflicted with European privacy laws. Dutch government disruption: U.S. sanctions led to service interruptions in Europe, affecting even innocent bystanders. These examples prove that relying on non-EU cloud providers exposes Europe to legal uncertainty, geopolitical risks, and potential data misuse. The AI Factor: More Data, More Dependency The rise of AI adds another layer of urgency. Modern AI systems need huge amounts of computing power, which is mostly available through major cloud platforms. But if European AI models are trained or hosted on non-EU infrastructure, it creates legal and ethical conflicts, especially with the new EU AI Act. Hosting AI in the wrong cloud can violate EU data protection rules — even if developers follow best practices. That’s why digital sovereignty is not just a legal issue anymore. It’s becoming a strategic priority. European Alternatives Taking Shape Europe has started several initiatives to build its own cloud capacity. Some key projects include: Slow adoption, lack of traction, and the gap between European ambitions and current reality. 1. Gaia-X: The Ambitious (But Struggling) Vision “Europe contributes nearly 25% of global cloud revenues but owns less than 2% of cloud infrastructure.” – Gaia-X Gaia-X was Europe's flagship attempt at creating a federated cloud infrastructure. Launched with great fanfare, it promised to be "a federated European cloud platform big enough to challenge the market dominance of the US hyperscale providers and meet the data sovereignty needs of businesses". However, the project has faced significant challenges. Critics argue that by including major American tech companies in the initiative, Gaia-X risks becoming what some call "a trojan horse for Big Tech in Europe". Six years after its launch, that promise of digital sovereignty "rings hollow". 2. EuroStack: The New Hope Learning from Gaia-X's struggles, a new initiative called EuroStack is gaining momentum. The EuroStack is described as "the continent's last chance for technological sovereignty in the era of AI". Unlike Gaia-X, EuroStack takes a more focused approach to building genuinely European alternatives. By 2025, EuroStack is expected to expand into AI regulation, blockchain identity, and provide businesses with sovereign cloud Europe solutions, AI governance frameworks, and open-source software alternatives to AWS and Azure. 3. AWS European Sovereign Cloud: A Compromise Solution Even American companies are responding to European demands for sovereignty. AWS European Sovereign Cloud, launching in 2025, offers enhanced digital sovereignty for EU organisations. While this isn't a European-owned solution, it represents an attempt to address sovereignty concerns within existing market structures. 4. The Cloud and AI Development Act The European Commission is taking legislative action. In 2025, the Commission will propose the Cloud and AI Development Act, with the aim to at least triple the EU's data centre capacity within the next 5 to 7 years and fully meet the needs of EU businesses and public administrations by 2035. What Makes a Real European Alternative? For Europe to achieve genuine digital autonomy, several key elements must be in place: Local Ownership and Control: The infrastructure must be owned and operated by European entities, subject to European law and governance. Open Standards: Unlike proprietary systems that create vendor lock-in, European alternatives should embrace open standards that promote competition and innovation. Privacy by Design: European solutions must put privacy and data protection at their core, reflecting European values and legal requirements like GDPR. Economic Viability: Alternatives must be competitive in terms of performance, reliability, and cost. Sovereignty without competitiveness is not sustainable. Innovation Capacity: European solutions need to keep pace with technological advancement, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence and machine learning. Are There Any European Cloud Alternatives? Yes — and their number is growing. While they may not yet match AWS or Azure in size, they offer better compliance, lower legal risk, and strong alignment with European values. Some examples include: OVHcloud (France) – A leader in sovereign and secure cloud infrastructure Hetzner (Germany) – Affordable, high-performance hosting with full EU compliance Elastx (Sweden) – Sustainable, Kubernetes-based cloud for developers Scaleway (France) – Eco-friendly provider with a wide range of cloud services STACKIT (Germany) – Designed for enterprise needs and full data control IONOS Cloud (Germany/UK) – Reliable infrastructure for EU-based clients These providers prioritize GDPR compliance, data residency, and open-source standards — things global hyperscalers often struggle with. Public vs. Local Cloud: What’s the Difference? CriteriaPublic Hyperscalers (AWS, Azure, GCP)EU-Based Providers (OVH, Hetzner, etc.)Data SovereigntyMay store data worldwideHosted entirely in the EULegal RiskSubject to U.S. lawsGoverned by EU lawsSupportGlobal, but less localizedLocal support, EU languagesPerformanceFast globallyOptimized for EU performanceFlexibilityMany services, but risk of lock-inCloud-agnostic, easier to migrateComplianceGeneral certificationsTailored to EU-specific regulations How to Build Cloud Independence European companies and governments don’t have to “go it alone” or cut ties with global platforms. Instead, they can take a hybrid and strategic approach: Mix Providers: Use both global and local providers. Keep sensitive workloads in EU-based clouds. Classify Workloads: Not all data is equal. Critical or regulated data should always stay on sovereign infrastructure. Ensure Portability: Use open standards like containers and Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) to avoid vendor lock-in. Audit Regularly: Know where your data lives, who controls it, and whether you can move it if needed. What Comes Next? Digital independence doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a journey — and Europe is now on the path. The key is not to reject collaboration with U.S. providers, but to make smarter choices: ✅ Choose partners that match your values✅ Protect your data with the right legal frameworks✅ Plan for long-term resilience, not just short-term convenience As Margrethe Vestager, VP of the European Commission, put it: “Digital infrastructure is no longer just technical — it’s geopolitical.” And as the experts at Gart Solutions say: “Cloud independence isn’t about cutting ties. It’s about choosing your ties wisely.” ✅ Start with a Cloud Audit You can’t manage what you don’t measure.Ask yourself: Where is your data stored? Which jurisdictions govern it? Are you prepared to switch providers if needed? A simple cloud audit will reveal your current risks and help you make smarter, future-proof decisions. 👉 Need help getting started? Contact us for guidance on building your path to cloud independence. Conclusion The future of European cloud is not just about technology. It’s about trust, freedom, and control. By investing in sovereign solutions and rethinking cloud strategies, Europe can finally take back ownership of its digital destiny.

Cloud

DevOps

IT Infrastructure

Choosing the Right Cloud Provider: How to Select the Perfect Fit for Your Business

Roman Burdiuzha

July 12, 2023

Are you contemplating the shift to cloud computing? As businesses increasingly embrace the benefits of cloud technology, it's crucial to make an informed decision when selecting a cloud provider (AWS vs Azure vs Google Cloud). With numerous options available, it can be overwhelming to determine the best fit for your specific needs. [lwptoc] But fear not! In this comprehensive blog post, we'll delve into various cloud providers and assist you in identifying the ideal choice for your organization. CriteriaAmazon Web Services (AWS)Microsoft AzureGoogle Cloud Platform (GCP)PricingOffers various pricing models and options, including pay-as-you-go and reserved instances.Flexible pricing options, including pay-as-you-go and discounted reserved instances.Offers pay-as-you-go pricing and committed use discounts.Compute ServicesProvides a wide range of compute services, including EC2, Lambda, and Elastic Beanstalk.Offers compute services like Virtual Machines, App Service, and Azure Functions.Provides compute services such as Compute Engine, App Engine, and Kubernetes Engine.Storage OptionsProvides various storage services, including S3, EBS, and Glacier.Offers storage services like Blob Storage, File Storage, and Azure Disk Storage.Provides storage services such as Cloud Storage, Cloud SQL, and Cloud Bigtable.Machine Learning and AI CapabilitiesOffers comprehensive AI and machine learning services with Amazon SageMaker, Rekognition, and more.Provides AI and ML capabilities through services like Azure Machine Learning, Cognitive Services, and more.Offers AI and ML services through Google Cloud AI, AutoML, and TensorFlow.Database ServicesProvides a wide range of database options, including Amazon RDS, DynamoDB, and Redshift.Offers database services like Azure SQL Database, Cosmos DB, and Azure Database for MySQL.Provides database services such as Cloud SQL, Firestore, and BigQuery.NetworkingOffers extensive networking capabilities, including Amazon VPC, Route 53, and CloudFront.Provides networking services like Azure Virtual Network, Azure DNS, and Azure ExpressRoute.Offers networking services such as Virtual Private Cloud (VPC), Cloud DNS, and Cloud Load Balancing.Global InfrastructureOperates in numerous regions worldwide with a large number of data centers.Has an extensive global presence with data centers located in many regions.Has a global network of data centers and regions to provide wide coverage.SupportProvides extensive documentation, support forums, and options for technical support.Offers comprehensive documentation, support options, and access to Azure support engineers.Provides documentation, community support, and access to Google Cloud support resources.A high-level overview of the different cloud providers Pros and Cons: AWS vs Azure vs Google Cloud Amazon Web Services (AWS) Pros: Extensive Service Offering: AWS has a vast range of services, including compute, storage, databases, AI/ML, networking, and more, providing comprehensive solutions for various business needs. Market Leader: AWS is the leading cloud provider with a strong track record, extensive customer base, and a robust ecosystem of third-party integrations. Global Infrastructure: AWS has a vast global infrastructure with multiple data centers worldwide, allowing businesses to have low-latency access and meet data sovereignty requirements. Scalability and Flexibility: AWS offers auto-scaling features and flexible resource allocation, enabling businesses to easily scale up or down based on demand. Strong Security Measures: AWS provides a wide range of security tools, encryption options, and compliance certifications to ensure the protection of data and meet regulatory requirements. Cons: Complex Pricing Structure: AWS pricing can be complex, especially when using a variety of services. Understanding the pricing models, estimating costs, and optimizing expenses may require careful planning and monitoring. Steep Learning Curve: AWS has a rich set of services and features, which can make it challenging for beginners to navigate and fully utilize the platform. Learning resources and training may be necessary for effective usage. Limited Support Options: While AWS provides documentation and support forums, some users have reported challenges with response times and the availability of personalized support. Microsoft Azure Pros: Seamless Integration with Microsoft Products: Azure offers seamless integration with popular Microsoft tools and technologies, making it attractive for businesses already using the Microsoft ecosystem. Hybrid Cloud Capabilities: Azure provides strong support for hybrid cloud scenarios, allowing businesses to seamlessly integrate on-premises infrastructure with the cloud. Wide Range of Services: Azure offers a comprehensive set of services, including compute, storage, databases, analytics, and more, catering to diverse business needs. Strong Enterprise Focus: Azure is well-suited for enterprise environments, with features like Active Directory integration, strong governance tools, and compliance certifications. Global Presence: Azure has a wide global presence with data centers located in various regions, enabling businesses to have a global reach and meet local compliance requirements. Cons: Learning Curve for Non-Microsoft Users: Users not familiar with Microsoft technologies may face a learning curve when navigating Azure's services and features. Some Services Still Maturing: While Azure offers a wide range of services, some may still be evolving and may not have the same maturity or feature set as those of AWS. Limited Marketplace Offerings: The Azure Marketplace may have a smaller selection of third-party solutions compared to AWS, although it continues to grow. Google Cloud Platform (GCP) Pros: Strong AI and ML Capabilities: GCP is known for its advanced AI and ML services, offering pre-trained models, custom machine learning, and data analytics capabilities. Cost-Effective Pricing: GCP's pricing structure is known for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, with competitive pricing options and sustained usage discounts. Scalable and Elastic Infrastructure: GCP provides flexible scaling options, allowing businesses to easily handle varying workloads and traffic spikes. Global Network and Performance: GCP offers a high-performance global network, enabling businesses to deliver applications and services with low latency. Developer-Friendly: GCP provides a range of developer tools and integration options, making it attractive for developers and DevOps teams. Cons: Smaller Market Share: GCP currently has a smaller market share compared to AWS and Azure, which may result in a comparatively smaller ecosystem and fewer third-party integrations. Limited Enterprise Focus: GCP may be perceived as more focused on startups and developer-centric use cases, although it continues to expand its enterprise capabilities. Learning Curve for Non-Google Users: Users who are not familiar with Google's technologies may need to invest time in learning and adapting to GCP's platform and services. ? Unable to choose a cloud provider? Seek expert guidance from Gart. Our experienced team can help you navigate the complexities of cloud computing and select the optimal provider for your business. How to Choose a Cloud Service Provider Choosing a cloud service provider requires careful consideration of several factors. Here are the key steps to guide you in selecting the right cloud service provider for your business: Define Your Business Requirements: Understand your business requirements and goals. Evaluate services, performance, and security measures. Consider global infrastructure and data centers. Assess integration capabilities and ease of migration. Evaluate disaster recovery options and pricing models. Seek feedback and conduct trials to make an informed choice. To begin the process of selecting the right cloud service provider for your business, it is crucial to gain a deep understanding of your organization's needs, objectives, and unique requirements in relation to cloud services. Take into account various factors, such as the types of workloads you handle, your storage and computing requirements, scalability expectations, compliance obligations, and any industry-specific regulations that apply. Conduct a comprehensive workload analysis to assess the specific applications and workloads your business relies on. Consider the nature of these workloads, whether they involve web hosting, data analytics, AI/ML processing, e-commerce, or other operations. Identify the computing resources, storage needs, and network prerequisites associated with each workload. This table provides a brief overview of the compute services offered by each cloud provider: Cloud ProviderCompute ServicesAWSAmazon EC2 (Elastic Compute Cloud)AWS Lambda (Serverless Computing)Amazon ECS (Elastic Container Service)AWS Batch (Batch Computing)AWS Elastic Beanstalk (Platform-as-a-Service)AzureAzure Virtual MachinesAzure Functions (Serverless Computing)Azure Container InstancesAzure Batch (Batch Computing)Azure App Service (Platform-as-a-Service)GCPGoogle Compute EngineGoogle Cloud Functions (Serverless Computing)Google Kubernetes Engine (Managed Kubernetes)Google Cloud Run (Container Instances)Google App Engine (Platform-as-a-Service)A table comparing the compute services offered by AWS vs Azure vs Google Cloud Determine the scalability and flexibility your business demands. Evaluate whether you require the capability to quickly scale resources up or down in response to fluctuating demands. Consider whether potential cloud providers offer features like auto-scaling, elastic load balancing, and flexible resource allocation to meet your scalability requirements effectively. Evaluate your data storage and database needs. Analyze the volume of data your business needs to store and process, as well as the specific data access patterns (real-time, batch processing) that are crucial to your operations. Consider the level of data durability, redundancy, and availability required. Assess the availability of different storage options (such as object storage or block storage) and the variety of database solutions (relational or NoSQL) offered by each cloud service provider. Here's a table comparing the database and storage services offered by AWS, Azure, and GCP Cloud ProviderDatabase ServicesStorage ServicesAWSAmazon RDS (Relational Database Service)Amazon S3 (Simple Storage Service)Amazon DynamoDB (NoSQL Database)Amazon EBS (Elastic Block Store)Amazon Aurora (Managed Relational Database)Amazon Elastic File System (EFS)Amazon DocumentDB (MongoDB-compatible Document Database)Amazon FSx (File Storage)Amazon Neptune (Graph Database)Amazon Glacier (Long-term Archive Storage)AzureAzure SQL DatabaseAzure Blob StorageAzure Cosmos DB (NoSQL Database)Azure Files (Managed File Storage)Azure Database for MySQLAzure Disk StorageAzure Database for PostgreSQLAzure Archive Storage (Long-term Archive Storage)Azure Synapse Analytics (Data Warehousing)Azure Data Lake StorageGCPGoogle Cloud SQL (Managed Relational Database Service)Google Cloud StorageGoogle Cloud Firestore (NoSQL Document Database)Google Cloud Persistent DiskGoogle Cloud Spanner (Horizontally Scalable Relational Database)Google Cloud FilestoreGoogle Cloud Bigtable (Wide-column NoSQL Database)Google Cloud Storage Nearline (Long-term Archive Storage)Google Cloud Datastore (NoSQL Database)Google Cloud Archive Storage (Long-term Archive Storage)AWS vs Azure vs Google Cloud: database and storage services Assess the security and compliance features provided by each cloud service provider, especially if your business operates in an industry with specific regulatory requirements such as healthcare (HIPAA) or financial services (PCI DSS). Pay attention to aspects like data encryption, access controls, compliance certifications, and auditing capabilities offered by potential providers. Take into account your business's geographic presence and any data sovereignty obligations you may have. Determine whether the cloud provider has data centers located in regions that align with your operations or customer base. Ensure that the provider can meet local data residency requirements and provide low-latency access for optimal performance. Evaluate the compatibility and integration capabilities of the cloud provider with your existing systems, applications, and IT infrastructure. Look for pre-built integrations, APIs, and software development kits (SDKs) that facilitate seamless connectivity and data exchange. Consider the ease of migrating your current applications and data to the platform of the cloud service provider under consideration. Assess your disaster recovery and business continuity needs. Determine whether the cloud provider offers robust backup and disaster recovery solutions, including data replication across multiple regions, automated backup processes, and options for high availability and fault tolerance. These features are critical to ensure the uninterrupted operation of your business. Consider your budget and cost expectations for cloud services. Evaluate the pricing models, cost structures, and billing options provided by each cloud service provider. Take into account factors such as compute and storage costs, data transfer fees, and potential discounts or cost optimization tools offered by the provider. By conducting a thorough analysis and defining your business requirements across these dimensions, you will be better equipped to evaluate different cloud service providers and select the one that aligns most effectively with your organization's needs, goals, and constraints. Still undecided on the right cloud provider? Get in touch with us now and embark on your cloud transformation journey! Consider Performance and Reliability Performance and reliability are crucial for smooth operations. Evaluate the uptime guarantees and service level agreements (SLAs) provided by cloud providers. Look for low-latency connections, robust network infrastructure, and features like content delivery networks (CDNs) and load balancing that can enhance performance and improve user experience. AWS Networking Services Amazon VPC (Virtual Private Cloud) Amazon CloudFront (Content Delivery Network) Amazon Route 53 (Domain Name System) AWS Direct Connect (Dedicated Network Connection) AWS Elastic Load Balancer (Application Load Balancer, Network Load Balancer) Azure Networking Services Azure Virtual Network Azure CDN (Content Delivery Network) Azure DNS (Domain Name System) Azure ExpressRoute (Dedicated Network Connection) Azure Load Balancer (Application Gateway, Traffic Manager) GCP Networking Services Google VPC (Virtual Private Cloud) Cloud CDN (Content Delivery Network) Cloud DNS (Domain Name System) Cloud Interconnect (Dedicated Network Connection) Load Balancing (HTTP/HTTPS, TCP/SSL) Assess Security and Compliance It is essential to carefully evaluate the security measures and certifications provided by each cloud provider. This evaluation should encompass considerations such as encryption options, access controls, identity and access management (IAM) capabilities, and the provider's compliance with industry regulations that are relevant to your business. Ensuring that the chosen cloud provider meets your specific security and compliance requirements is crucial for safeguarding your data and maintaining regulatory compliance. Review Pricing and Cost Structures When reviewing the pricing and cost structures of various cloud providers, it is important to gain a comprehensive understanding of their pricing models, cost structures, and billing options. Evaluate key factors such as pay-as-you-go pricing, the availability of reserved instances, costs associated with data storage, and fees for data transfers. It is crucial to consider the total cost of ownership (TCO) over time and compare it with your budget and cost expectations. To effectively manage expenses, look for cost optimization tools and explore available options that can assist in optimizing and controlling your cloud-related costs. By conducting a thorough evaluation of pricing and cost structures, you can make informed decisions that align with your financial objectives while maximizing the value derived from your chosen cloud provider. Read more: Azure Cost Optimization for a Software Development Company This case study highlights how Gart assisted Appsurify.com, a software development and testing company, in optimizing their Microsoft Azure infrastructure costs. By conducting a thorough analysis of the client's cloud infrastructure and identifying cost drivers, our team implemented strategic changes to reduce network costs by 90%. Additionally, the solution improved performance, security, and reliability while saving the client up to $400 per day in network and infrastructure expenses. The case study demonstrates the effectiveness of Azure cost optimization in achieving significant savings and enhancing overall infrastructure performance. Consider Global Infrastructure and Data Centers The proximity of data centers to your target audience can play a vital role in minimizing latency and ensuring optimal performance. Additionally, it is crucial to consider data sovereignty requirements and choose a provider that can comply with the regulations specific to the regions where you operate. Evaluating the cloud provider's content delivery network (CDN) capabilities is also important, as it can enhance performance by delivering content efficiently to end users across various locations. By carefully considering global infrastructure and data center availability, you can ensure a seamless and responsive user experience while meeting regulatory obligations. The three major cloud providers each have an extensive global presence: Amazon Web Services (AWS) operates in 25 geographic regions, which are further divided into 81 availability zones. They have a vast network of 218+ edge locations and 12 Regional Edge Caches. Microsoft Azure has a footprint in over 60 regions worldwide. Each region is equipped with a minimum of three availability zones, ensuring high availability. Additionally, they have established more than 116 edge locations, also known as Points of Presence (PoPs). Google Cloud Platform (GCP) is available in 27 cloud regions, and within these regions, there are a total of 82 zones. GCP further extends its network reach through 146 edge locations across the globe. Evaluate Support and Documentation Consider the level of support and customer service provided by each cloud provider. Look for availability of support channels, response times, and the quality of documentation, tutorials, and knowledge base resources. A responsive and knowledgeable support team can be crucial in resolving issues promptly. Consider Vendor Lock-in and Portability Assess the level of vendor lock-in associated with each provider. Evaluate the ease of migrating to and from the cloud provider, as well as the compatibility and portability of your applications and data. Consider strategies to mitigate vendor lock-in risks and ensure future flexibility. Seek Feedback and References Look for feedback from other businesses or industry peers who have experience with the cloud providers you are considering. Research case studies and success stories to understand how well the providers have supported similar organizations in achieving their goals. Conduct Proof-of-Concept (PoC) or Trial Periods Before making a final decision, consider conducting a proof-of-concept or taking advantage of trial periods offered by cloud providers. This allows you to test the provider's services, performance, and compatibility with your applications and workloads before committing fully. By following these steps and thoroughly evaluating each cloud service provider based on your specific business requirements, you can make an informed decision and choose the cloud service provider that best fits your needs and goals. Don't let the cloud provider decision overwhelm you. Gart is here to help. Exploring Other Cloud Providers: Beyond AWS, Azure, and GCP In addition to AWS vs Azure vs Google Cloud, there are several other notable cloud providers in the market. Here are a few examples: IBM Cloud IBM's cloud platform that offers a range of services including compute, storage, AI, and blockchain. It emphasizes enterprise-grade security and hybrid cloud capabilities. Oracle Cloud Oracle's cloud platform provides services for infrastructure, databases, applications, AI, and data analytics. It focuses on integrating with existing Oracle software and technologies. Alibaba Cloud Alibaba's cloud platform offers a comprehensive suite of cloud services, including compute, storage, networking, AI, and big data analytics. It has a strong presence in the Asia-Pacific region. DigitalOcean DigitalOcean is a developer-focused cloud provider that specializes in providing simple and cost-effective infrastructure services such as virtual machines, storage, and Kubernetes clusters. Vultr Vultr is a cloud provider known for its high-performance and affordable infrastructure services. It offers scalable compute, storage, and networking resources across multiple data centers worldwide. Rackspace Rackspace provides managed cloud services and expertise across various cloud platforms, including AWS, Azure, and GCP. It offers support, migration, and optimization services to help businesses leverage the benefits of the cloud. Salesforce Cloud Salesforce offers a suite of cloud-based applications for customer relationship management (CRM), sales, marketing, and service management. Its platform-as-a-service (PaaS), known as Salesforce Platform, allows businesses to build and deploy custom applications. Tencent Cloud Tencent Cloud is a leading cloud provider in China, offering a wide range of cloud services including computing, storage, databases, AI, and IoT. It focuses on serving businesses in the Chinese market. OVHcloud OVHcloud is a European cloud provider offering a broad portfolio of services, including virtual private servers, dedicated servers, storage, and network solutions. It emphasizes data privacy and compliance with European regulations. Hetzner Cloud Hetzner Cloud is a German cloud provider offering a range of infrastructure services, including virtual machines, storage, and networking. It is known for its competitive pricing and reliable performance. Conclusion: AWS vs Azure vs Google Cloud When comparing AWS vs Azure vs Google Cloud, it's clear that each cloud provider offers a robust set of services and features. AWS excels in its expansive service offerings and market dominance. Azure stands out with its seamless integration with Microsoft technologies and comprehensive enterprise solutions. Google Cloud impresses with its cutting-edge technology and strong focus on data analytics and machine learning. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific business requirements, budget, and preferences. We hope that our assistance has been valuable in guiding you on how to choose a cloud provider.

Understanding the Cloud Landscape

AWS – The Industry Giant

Hetzner – The Underdog Gaining Momentum

Why Companies Seek AWS Alternatives

The High Cost of AWS

Performance vs. Price Dilemma

Gart Solutions’ Cloud Philosophy

Choosing Hetzner – Strategic Reasoning

Case Study #1 – High-Traffic Gaming Workloads

The Challenge with AWS

Migration to Hetzner

Results and Metrics

Case Study #2 – Scaling a Global Environmental Platform

Elandfill.io’s Expansion Needs

How Hetzner Met the Challenge

Business Outcomes

Case Study #3 – DevOps in Digital Betting

Betting Platform Infrastructure Problems

Full DevOps Makeover with Hetzner

Comparing AWS and Hetzner Head-to-Head

Cost Structure

Performance and Reliability

DevOps Compatibility

When to Choose Hetzner Over AWS

Ideal Use Cases

When AWS Still Wins

Final Thoughts – Hetzner Is a Smart, Scalable Choice

FAQ

Is Hetzner cheaper than AWS?

How does Hetzner performance compare to AWS?

Can I run Kubernetes on Hetzner instead of AWS EKS?

What managed services does Hetzner offer compared to AWS?

Where are Hetzner data centers located vs AWS availability zones?

Is Hetzner secure and GDPR-compliant like AWS?

Are there hidden costs with Hetzner (like storage or egress fees)?

Can I build a hybrid setup using Hetzner and AWS together?

Is Hetzner a good fit for enterprise-scale workloads?

Do people migrate from AWS to Hetzner — and why?

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