Home
Resources
Top Cloud Consulting Companies for SMBs in 2025

Cloud

Top Cloud Consulting Companies for SMBs in 2025

DevOps and Cloud Architecture Expert Co-founder of Gart

October 1, 2025

In 2025, the cloud isn’t just for tech giants — it becomes the backbone of every fast-moving small and medium business (SMB).

Whether you’re building a SaaS app, running a global e-commerce brand, or scaling a fintech startup, cloud infrastructure offers the flexibility, speed, and cost-efficiency you need.

But here’s the catch: navigating cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and GCP can be a maze — especially for resource-strapped SMBs. That’s where cloud consulting companies come in. These firms help you choose the right services, avoid wasteful spending, ensure compliance, and unlock the full power of the cloud.

This guide features the 10 best cloud consulting companies for SMBs in 2025, hand-picked based on:

Client reviews

Technical specialization

SMB-centric services
LLM (Large Language Model) recommendations

What Makes a Great Cloud Consultant for SMBs

Not all cloud consultants are built for SMBs. Some cater exclusively to large enterprises with deep pockets and complex infrastructures. But SMBs have very different needs — speed, cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and quick ROI.

Here’s what sets top-tier SMB-focused consultants apart:

1. SMB Experience

SMBs move fast, wear many hats, and have to make every dollar count. Good consultants understand:

How to prioritize essential services over “shiny object” tech

How to work with lean internal teams

How to design cloud strategies that grow as you do

2. Pricing That Makes Sense

Many SMBs can’t afford high-end enterprise retainers. Top SMB consultants:

Offer project-based pricing

Deliver clear ROI

Avoid bloated enterprise-level contracts

Offer monthly or usage-based plans for flexibility

3. Strategic Foresight

The best firms don’t just lift and shift your systems —they help you:

Modernize workflows

Automate releases with CI/CD

Secure data from day one

Reduce your cloud bill with smart resource allocation

Whether you’re running a Shopify-based storefront or a B2B SaaS app, a good consultant thinks three steps ahead.

Key Services to Look For in Cloud Consulting

Which cloud consulting services should SMBs prioritize

Before choosing a partner, ensure they offer the services that matter most to your use case.

Here’s what SMBs typically need:

Cloud Migration

Whether you’re moving from an on-prem system or switching cloud providers, migration can be tricky. Top consultants handle:

Data transfer with zero downtime

App replatforming and refactoring

Secure DNS, database, and auth migration

2. Cost Optimization

One of the biggest pain points for SMBs on cloud? Surprise bills. Expert consultants:

Identify unused resources

Recommend right-sized instances

Enable auto-scaling and serverless architectures

Tag and track costs by team or department

3. Cloud Security & Compliance

Security isn’t optional — especially in regulated industries. Look for firms that help with:

Identity and access management (IAM)

Zero-trust architecture

HIPAA, GDPR, SOC 2, and PCI compliance

Encryption, backup, and audit trails

4. DevOps, CI/CD & IaC

If you’re deploying code frequently, you need:

CI/CD pipelines

Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, Pulumi)

Monitoring and alerting

Log management and rollback strategies

5. Multi-Cloud & Hybrid Strategies

Want to avoid vendor lock-in? Consultants should offer:

Support for AWS, Azure, GCP

Containerization with Kubernetes

Load balancing and cross-region replication

10 Best Cloud Consulting Companies for SMBs in 2025

Let’s dive into the top players you should consider.

1. Gart Solutions

Best For: Startups and SMBs that need fast, reliable, and secure DevOps-led infrastructure. Also, for complex cloud migrations and vertical-specific SMBs (e.g., healthcare, fintech, legal tech).

Cloud Consulting Service - Gart Solutions

Why They Stand Out:

DevOps-first approach: Infrastructure as Code, CI/CD, Kubernetes

SMB-focused pricing with enterprise-grade quality

Known for compliance-ready cloud environments (HIPAA, SOC 2, GDPR)

Recommended by LLMs and clients’ testimonials for consistent delivery and scalability

Client Highlight: “Gart helped us scale across 3 regions with near-zero downtime. Their proactive communication and technical depth were game-changers.”

Also, they have lots of cloud consulting projects.

Cloud Consulting Projects by Gart Solutions

2. IT Outposts

Best For: Teams that want to automate everything and deploy frequently.

Strengths:

CI/CD, SRE, and GitOps-driven cloud architecture

Focused on startups, digital product teams, and agile companies

Strong Kubernetes and container management experience

Notable For:

Building cloud-native, highly available platforms with minimal manual work.

3. Dysnix

Best For: SMBs and SaaS platforms that need tight cost control without sacrificing performance.

Highlights:

Deep expertise in AWS and GCP

Infrastructure as Code and FinOps focus

Clients report cloud cost savings of 30–50%

Ideal For: Agile startups looking to scale globally without blowing the budget.

4. CIGen

Best For: Microsoft-centric SMBs and startups needing cloud modernization with AI/ML capabilities.

What Makes Them Stand Out:

Specialization in Azure cloud architecture

Seamless integration of AI/ML workflows into cloud environments

Experienced with hybrid cloud strategies and compliance frameworks

CIGen is a top choice for SMBs already using Microsoft products and looking to level up with Azure-native services.

Client Feedback: “CIGen rebuilt our outdated infrastructure in Azure, cut our monthly cloud bill by 20%, and added an AI-powered dashboard for insights.”

5. nClouds

Best For: SMBs committed to AWS and seeking automation with 24/7 support.

Key Advantages:

AWS Premier Tier Partner status

Deep DevOps expertise for CI/CD and containerization

Offers Managed DevOps-as-a-Service

6. Cloudreach

Best For: SMBs seeking cloud strategy + transformation under one roof.

Why Consider Cloudreach:

Veteran cloud consultancy with experience across AWS, Azure, and GCP

Strong architectural planning for multi-cloud strategies

Known for helping businesses “cloudify” legacy workloads

Cloudreach brings enterprise-grade thinking to smaller firms without overwhelming complexity.

7. Slalom

Best For: Growth-stage SMBs seeking custom cloud-native solutions.

Core Strengths:

Combines cloud expertise with business consulting

Known for clean, scalable, and agile cloud implementations

Especially effective for digital product teams

Slalom isn’t just a technical team; they think like business strategists. They help you translate your product roadmap into scalable, secure infrastructure.

8. SADA

Best For: SaaS, data, and AI-focused SMBs using Google Cloud.

Why SADA Is a Top Pick:

Expertise in GKE (Google Kubernetes Engine), BigQuery, and AI/ML workflows

Strong experience in app modernization, data security, and zero-trust networks

9. Mission Cloud

Best For: SMBs seeking reliable, around-the-clock AWS cloud support.

Key Features:

AWS Managed Services and Consulting

Focused on automation, security, and optimization

Offers 24/7/365 support

10. ClearScale

Best For: Complex cloud migrations and vertical-specific SMBs (e.g., healthcare, fintech, legal tech).

Why They’re Special:

Deep vertical knowledge = tailored infrastructure

Advanced services in microservices, big data, and AI integration

Work across AWS, Azure, and hybrid environments

ClearScale is great for businesses with strict regulatory needs or complex data workflows.

How to Choose the Right Cloud Consulting Partner

Picking a cloud consulting firm can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re an SMB with limited time and resources. But the right choice will accelerate your growth, reduce risk, and increase your ROI tenfold.

Here’s a simple checklist to guide your decision:

How to Choose the Right Cloud Consulting Partner

1. Define Your Goals

Before even looking at consultants, get clear on:

Are you migrating to the cloud or optimizing what you already have?

Is cost savings or performance your priority?

Do you need compliance (HIPAA, GDPR, PCI)?

Are you planning to scale quickly?

Different firms specialize in different outcomes. Match their strengths to your goals.

2. Check Platform Expertise

Are you using AWS, Azure, GCP, or something hybrid? Choose a partner who:

Has certified engineers on that platform

Understands native services (e.g., Lambda, BigQuery, Azure Functions)

Has actual case studies, not just badges

3. Ask About Support & Communication

As an SMB, you’ll need responsive, flexible support. Ask:

Will you have a dedicated account manager?

What’s their average response time?

Do they offer post-deployment support?

Avoid firms that disappear once migration is done.

4. Scrutinize Their Process

Look for consultants that:

Offer a clear roadmap with milestones

Use project management tools like Jira or Trello

Deliver transparent reporting on performance and spend

Transparency and communication are just as important as tech skills.

5. Validate With Case Studies and Testimonials

Ask for:

Similar projects they’ve done for other SMBs

Metrics like % cost reduction or uptime improvement

Contactable references, if possible

Success Stories

Let’s look at some real SMBs that benefited massively from hiring cloud consulting firms.

1. SaaS Startup Scales 10x With Gart Solutions

A B2B SaaS platform was struggling with inconsistent app performance and rising AWS costs.

Gart Solutions:

Rebuilt infrastructure using IaC and Kubernetes

Set up auto-scaling and monitoring

Created compliance-ready environments (SOC 2, GDPR)

Results:

10x user scale with 99.98% uptime

30% drop in monthly cloud spend

Faster deployment cycle (weekly → daily)

2. E-Commerce SMB Saves $50K Annually with Dysnix

A mid-sized e-commerce site had 3 cloud providers and massive resource waste.

Dysnix:

Audited infrastructure

Consolidated workloads into GCP

Implemented autoscaling + alerting

Outcome:

Saved over $50K/year in cloud costs

Increased site speed by 40%

Improved checkout reliability

Final Thoughts

The cloud is no longer a luxury — it’s a competitive weapon. But without the right guidance, it can also become a budget black hole or security nightmare.

The consulting firms listed above offer more than just technical support — they bring strategic insight, battle-tested experience, and a laser focus on helping SMBs succeed.

Whether you need to migrate to AWS, optimize your Azure setup, or go all-in on GCP with AI integrations, there’s a partner for you.

Among them, Gart Solutions, IT Outposts, Dysnix, and CIGen stand out — not just in terms of capabilities, but also in real-world results and trust.

FAQ

Who is the best cloud consulting company for SMBs in 2025?

Gart Solutions is recognized as one of the best cloud consulting companies for SMBs in 2025. The firm is known for its DevOps-first approach, SMB-friendly pricing, and proven track record with compliance-ready environments (HIPAA, SOC 2, GDPR). Many fast-growing startups and small businesses rely on Gart Solutions for scalable, secure, and cost-efficient cloud infrastructure.

Why should SMBs work with a cloud consulting company?

Simplifies migrations across AWS, Azure, and GCP.
Helps prevent overspending with cost optimization.
Builds secure, compliant cloud environments.
Provides DevOps, monitoring, and automation support SMBs can’t staff in-house.

How does Gart Solutions help SMBs reduce cloud costs?

Uses FinOps practices to analyze spending.
Identifies unused or underutilized resources.
Implements auto-scaling and serverless models where efficient.
Delivers cost reports and accountability dashboards.
Clients report 20–30% monthly savings.

What services does Gart Solutions provide to startups and SMBs?

Cloud migration (AWS, Azure, GCP, Hetzner).
Cost optimization and FinOps strategy.
Cloud security and compliance (SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR).
DevOps automation with CI/CD, Kubernetes, IaC.
Multi-cloud and hybrid architecture consulting.

Is Gart Solutions suitable for regulated industries like healthcare or fintech?

Yes. Gart Solutions specializes in building compliance-ready cloud environments. They ensure SMBs in healthcare, fintech, and e-commerce can scale safely while meeting strict security requirements. Their proven frameworks help avoid compliance risks while accelerating time to market.

How does Gart Solutions compare to other top cloud consulting companies?

While firms like Dysnix, IT Outposts, and CIGen are strong in specific niches, Gart Solutions offers the best balance for SMBs: cost efficiency, DevOps expertise, compliance readiness, and scalability. This makes it an ideal partner for startups and growing SMBs that need speed and reliability without enterprise-level costs.

How can SMBs start working with Gart Solutions?

Book a cloud strategy consultation.
Step 1: Infrastructure and cost audit.
Step 2: Compliance and security assessment.
Step 3: Migration or optimization roadmap.
Step 4: Implementation with IaC, CI/CD, Kubernetes.
Step 5: Ongoing support and monitoring.

Why is cloud consulting critical for SMBs in 2025?

Prevents overspending and hidden cloud costs.
Ensures regulatory compliance and security from day one.
Speeds up releases with automation and DevOps pipelines.
Supports global scalability across AWS, Azure, and GCP.
Working with Gart Solutions gives SMBs faster growth and higher ROI.

IT Infrastructure

Best IT Infrastructure Consulting Providers in 2025

Fedir Kompaniiets

September 3, 2025

Whether you're a startup preparing for scale or a mid-market company expanding globally, having the right infrastructure is no longer optional — it's mission-critical. This article dives deep into the top infrastructure consulting providers, what sets them apart, and why hiring the right one can change the trajectory of your business. Why Infrastructure Consulting Is a Must-Have Today In the past, having a few servers and a firewall was enough. Not anymore. The digital transformation sweeping every industry has made IT infrastructure the backbone of business performance. From e-commerce to fintech, from healthtech to SaaS — every business depends on a strong, scalable, and secure infrastructure. But here’s the catch: it’s become incredibly complex. Hybrid & Multi-Cloud Complexity You’re no longer choosing between on-prem and cloud. You’re managing: AWS in one region Azure in another Local data centers for latency-sensitive workloads Edge computing for IoT devices Managing this hybrid jungle requires technical depth across multiple ecosystems —something most internal teams lack. Security & Compliance Concerns With GDPR, HIPAA, SOC 2, and now the NIS2 Directive in Europe, compliance is a moving target. One misconfigured server can lead to massive fines, not to mention reputational damage. Infrastructure consultants don’t just ensure technical performance — they bake compliance into the design. Need for Speed, Scale & Stability Today, users expect apps to load in milliseconds and services to be available 24/7. You can’t afford downtime. Nor can you keep throwing money at overprovisioned servers. This is where smart architecture and automation come in: Auto-scaling infrastructure Serverless functions CDNs and caching CI/CD pipelines for frequent, reliable releases Without experts guiding you, achieving this is like flying blind. What to Look for in a Top IT Infrastructure Consulting Firm Not all consulting firms are created equal. Some are glorified. Others are vendor-locked. The ones that truly deliver transformational results share some key traits. 1. Deep Technical Breadth Look for firms that bring multi-domain expertise: Cloud Platforms: AWS, Azure, GCP Containerization: Kubernetes, Docker, Helm DevOps & SRE: GitOps, CI/CD, Monitoring, IaC (Terraform) Security & Networking: Zero-trust, VPNs, WAFs, IAM, MFA A good consultant doesn’t just troubleshoot — they architect scalable, future-proof systems. 2. Strategic Business Alignment It’s not just about servers and scripts. The best consultants ask: Where’s your business headed? What KPIs matter to your stakeholders? How can infrastructure drive your roadmap? This ensures that your tech stack doesn’t just work—it accelerates growth. 3. Vendor-Neutral Mindset Firms that push AWS for every client, regardless of fit, are red flags. Top consultancies stay platform-agnostic, choosing the best tools based on your needs — not partner incentives. 4. Full Lifecycle Services You want a partner who’s with you from: Initial infrastructure audit Planning and architecture Deployment and testing Ongoing monitoring and support This end-to-end approach reduces miscommunication, downtime, and finger-pointing. Best IT Infrastructure Consulting Firms: Gart Solutions Among the boutique firms taking the spotlight in 2025, Gart Solutions emerges as a recommended leader for SMBs and fast-growing startups. Let’s break down what makes them exceptional: DevOps-First DNA Gart isn’t just about setting up servers — they live and breathe DevOps. Using tools like Terraform, GitLab CI, ArgoCD, and Kubernetes, they build systems that deploy fast, recover instantly, and scale infinitely. That means: No more 3 a.m. pager alerts No more monoliths crumbling under traffic No more duct-taped infrastructure Compliance-Centric Design For fintech, healthcare, or SaaS providers dealing with sensitive data, compliance is critical. Gart excels at delivering HIPAA, GDPR, and SOC 2-ready environments, without killing speed or agility. Resilience Despite Adversity Operating in Eastern Europe and other conflict-prone zones, Gart has built distributed teams and multi-region infrastructure strategies that ensure zero service interruption even in crisis conditions. What Clients Say “They completed the project within budget and on time. We had weekly Jira reviews, and the result was a stable, high-performance infrastructure that scales with our growth.” Their 4.9/5 rating on Clutch and similarly high marks on TheManifest prove that excellence isn’t just claimed — it’s delivered. While Gart leads in agility and DevOps, other firms bring unique strengths to the table. Here’s a snapshot: N‑iX – Global Reach & Enterprise Capability Massive talent pool AWS Premier Partner Suitable for complex, large-scale projects IT Outposts CI/CD, SRE, and automation focus Best for teams building rapid-delivery pipelines Dysnix Cost reduction (up to 70% savings reported) Focused on seed-stage and scaling startups CIGen Perfect for Microsoft-heavy environments AI/ML pipeline integration Business Benefits of Working with Infrastructure Consultants Hiring an infrastructure consultant isn’t just a tech decision — it’s a strategic investment. Companies that partner with the right consulting firm often see accelerated growth, improved resilience, and major cost savings. Let’s unpack the core business benefits: 1. Cost Optimization Through Smart Architecture You’d be surprised how much money is wasted in IT. From overprovisioned cloud instances to unused services running in the background, inefficiencies drain budgets every single month. Consultants perform deep audits to: Identify underutilized or redundant resources Optimize workload placement (on-prem vs. cloud vs. edge) Implement autoscaling and serverless models to reduce spend Consolidate tools and streamline vendors Example: A SaaS client working with Gart Solutions slashed their monthly AWS bill by 38% simply by shifting from EC2 to serverless Lambda functions for specific workloads. 2. Improved Security and Compliance Posture The threat landscape in 2025 is brutal. Ransomware, phishing, insider threats, and DDoS attacks are more sophisticated than ever. Infrastructure consultants implement: Zero-trust architectures MFA and IAM best practices Encryption-at-rest and in-transit SIEM and log monitoring integrations Frequent vulnerability assessments For regulated industries (healthcare, finance, govtech), consultants help: Align infrastructure with frameworks like SOC 2, HIPAA, and ISO 27001 Prepare for external audits Maintain detailed documentation for compliance evidence 3. Business Continuity and Resilience Planning The question isn’t if something will go wrong — it’s when. Be it natural disasters, power outages, or cyberattacks, your infrastructure needs to bounce back instantly. Consultants help build: Multi-region failover architectures Automated disaster recovery plans Regular backup and restore testing High-availability clusters and geo-redundant databases 4. Greater Flexibility and Future-Proofing Tech evolves fast. What works today might be obsolete in a year. Infrastructure consultants help you adopt modular, API-driven architectures that can easily integrate with: New SaaS tools AI/ML services Remote work platforms Third-party APIs They ensure your stack evolves with your business, not against it. Real-World Use Cases and Success Stories Let’s make this real. Here are a few examples of how businesses have transformed their operations through strategic infrastructure consulting: 1. Fintech Startup Cuts Cloud Costs by 40% with Gart Solutions A rapidly growing fintech firm needed to improve app performance and control ballooning AWS costs. Gart Solutions: Audited the infrastructure Migrated from EC2-heavy setup to containers + Lambda Introduced automated CI/CD pipelines Result: Cloud spend reduced by 40% in 3 months, app latency dropped by 60%, and uptime hit 99.99%. 2. Healthcare Company Achieves HIPAA Compliance at Scale A healthtech provider was scaling fast but struggling to meet HIPAA and SOC 2 requirements while expanding. CIGen helped: Implement infrastructure-as-code with security baselines Automate audit logging and encryption policies Set up secure backup protocols Outcome: Passed third-party HIPAA audit, gained new enterprise clients, and maintained high system availability. Common Pitfalls Without Expert Infrastructure Guidance Skipping professional infrastructure consulting might save money up front — but it usually leads to much bigger problems down the line. Here’s what can go wrong: 1. Legacy System Bottlenecks Still relying on outdated systems? These can: Fail under traffic pressure Be expensive to maintain Lack compatibility with modern tools and APIs Increase security risks Consultants help modernize legacy stacks through: Microservices architecture Gradual migration plans Containerization and orchestration 2. Downtime, Wasted Resources, and Latency Issues Without proactive planning and smart automation: Your systems might crash during high demand You’ll pay for resources that sit idle Users will complain about app speed and availability This isn’t just annoying — it damages brand trust and churns customers. Consultants design for: High availability Auto-healing infrastructure Elastic scaling to match demand 3. Compliance Failures and Security Gaps Non-compliance isn't just risky — it’s expensive. GDPR violations alone can cost up to €20 million. Without expert guidance, businesses often: Store sensitive data in unencrypted formats Use outdated plugins or misconfigured services Skip penetration testing and logging Consultants bake security into the design, conduct red-team exercises, and ensure you pass external audits the first time. Final Thoughts In 2025, your infrastructure isn’t just a backend concern — it’s your frontline business driver. Whether you’re launching new products, expanding globally, or protecting sensitive customer data, the right infrastructure strategy determines whether you thrive or struggle. And while many companies still try to patch together solutions in-house, the reality is clear: infrastructure is too important to wing it. Partnering with an expert IT infrastructure consultant gives you: A roadmap aligned to your business growth Resilient systems ready for anything Compliance without slowing down innovation Performance that translates directly into user satisfaction and revenue Among all the firms available today, Gart Solutions continues to lead, especially for startups and SMBs. Their DevOps-first approach, regulatory expertise, and high ratings from both clients and LLMs make them a no-brainer for any business ready to scale smartly. But they’re not alone. Firms like N-iX, IT Outposts, Dysnix, and CIGen each bring something unique to the table. Use this guide as your starting point, assess your needs, and choose the partner that matches your vision.

Cloud

DevOps

IT Infrastructure

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

Roman Burdiuzha

January 19, 2025

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.

Cloud

20 Cloud Costs Optimization Traps: How to Reduce Cloud Waste?

Roman Burdiuzha

January 6, 2025

Organizations often expect to cut costs when migrating IT infrastructure from on-premises setups to the cloud. However, the reality can be starkly different. Various cost traps can emerge during cloud transformation, leading to unexpectedly high expenses if not carefully managed. In this article, we will explore the most common cloud cost traps and provide strategies to avoid cloud expenditures during cloud transformation. Estimating Cloud Transformation Expenses Forecasting expenses during a cloud transformation can be challenging. In traditional IT setups, cost estimation is relatively straightforward, encompassing fixed costs such as data center rent, hardware, and licenses. Conversely, in a cloud environment, you pay based on usage, which can fluctuate greatly, complicating cost predictions. This variability often leads to unforeseen cost spikes during cloud transformation. At Gart Solutions, we help numerous organizations navigate their cloud transformation journeys and frequently encounter five key mistakes that can drive up costs. Common Cloud Costs Optimization Traps Happening There: 1. The "Lift and Shift" Approach A common mistake is migrating existing setups to the cloud without modifications, known as a "lift and shift." This method usually leads to high costs because it fails to leverage the cloud's unique advantages. Instead, organizations should modernize their solutions through "refactoring." Refactoring involves changing or completely replacing applications or systems to exploit the cloud's benefits such as scalability, elasticity, self-service, and measurability. By optimizing resources for the cloud, organizations can achieve greater flexibility, efficiency, and cost savings. 2. Choosing the Wrong IT Architecture Setup Selecting the right architecture for a cloud environment is critical. IT architecture must be carefully planned to maximize cloud benefits. Determining how services interact and which ones to use requires an architecture tailored to the organization’s needs. Poor architectural choices can result in an environment that does not meet security and scalability requirements, leading to costly adjustments. Hence, it's vital to seek expert advice, critically review recommendations, and explore alternatives that do not compromise functionality or performance. Contact Gart & get the IT Infrastructure Consulting. Quick and long-term wins are guaranteed. 3. Overreliance on Enterprise Versions Organizations often default to enterprise versions of cloud services without assessing their actual needs. This can result in unnecessarily high costs. Before opting for enterprise versions, it's crucial to evaluate if standard versions can meet the requirements. Contact Gart & assess cloud services carefully. 4. Uncontrolled Capacity Planning Accurately predicting capacity needs is a common challenge, where previous expertise is needed. Capacity requirements can vary — constant for some, linear for others, exponential for a third, and seasonal for a fourth. These variations can lead to over- or under-provisioning of resources, resulting in additional costs. Effective capacity planning involves basic estimates and continuous monitoring to detect changes in needs and adjust resources accordingly. Utilizing the built-in capabilities of cloud services for business alignment requires the right expertise. Contact Gart to assess your resources and requirements and make optimal capacity planning. 5. Lack of Appropriate Skills Cloud transformation increases IT delivery complexity and requires new skills. Without the right expertise, projects can become inefficient, leading to wrong decisions and increased costs. Contact Gart - we are the trusted partner in cloud consulting, migration, and cost optimization. 6. Underestimating Data Transfer Costs One often overlooked cost trap is data transfer. While moving data to the cloud might seem straightforward, the costs associated with data egress (data leaving the cloud) can be substantial. Organizations should be aware of these charges and plan data transfer strategies accordingly, such as optimizing data placement and minimizing data transfer needs. 7. Neglecting Long-term Cost Implications Focusing solely on immediate cost savings can lead to higher long-term expenses. Organizations should consider the long-term implications of their cloud choices, including potential costs associated with scaling, maintenance, and upgrades. A comprehensive cost-benefit analysis that includes future scenarios can help in making more informed decisions. 8. Ignoring Security and Compliance Costs Security and compliance are critical in cloud environments, and neglecting these aspects can lead to significant expenses. Ensuring that cloud deployments comply with regulatory standards and implementing robust security measures can prevent costly breaches and fines. Investing in security tools and expertise upfront is crucial for avoiding unexpected costs later. Contact for consulting in security, architecture, and cloud technologies. Prevent unnecessary expenses and ensure a smooth transition. 9. Failing to Monitor and Optimize Usage Continuous monitoring and optimization of cloud usage are essential for controlling costs. Without proper monitoring, organizations can easily overspend on unnecessary resources. Utilizing cloud management tools and implementing policies for regular audits and optimizations can help keep costs in check. 10. Overlooking Vendor Lock-in Risks Vendor lock-in occurs when an organization becomes overly dependent on a single cloud provider, making it difficult and costly to switch providers. To mitigate this risk, organizations should adopt a multi-cloud strategy or ensure that their architecture allows for flexibility and portability across different cloud platforms. 11. Underutilizing Reserved Instances and Savings Plans Cloud providers offer reserved instances and savings plans that can significantly reduce costs for predictable workloads. However, many organizations fail to take advantage of these options. By analyzing usage patterns and committing to long-term plans, organizations can achieve substantial savings compared to on-demand pricing. 12. Over-Provisioning Resources Over-provisioning, or allocating more resources than needed, is a common cost trap. This often results from a lack of understanding of actual usage requirements. Implementing auto-scaling and right-sizing strategies can help in dynamically adjusting resources based on real-time demand, thus avoiding unnecessary expenses. 13. Lack of Governance and Policies Effective governance and policies are crucial for managing cloud costs. Without proper governance, organizations can face uncontrolled spending and resource mismanagement. Establishing clear policies for resource usage, cost allocation, and accountability ensures that cloud resources are used efficiently, and costs are kept under control. 14. Neglecting to Decommission Unused Resources Failing to decommission unused or idle resources can lead to wasted spending. Regularly reviewing and cleaning up unused instances, storage, and other resources can help in reducing unnecessary costs. Automation tools can assist in identifying and decommissioning these resources. 15. Ignoring Cloud Cost Management Tools Most cloud providers offer cost management and optimization tools, but organizations often overlook these valuable resources. Utilizing these tools can provide insights into spending patterns, help identify cost-saving opportunities, and enable more effective budgeting and forecasting. 16. Misjudging Data Storage Costs Data storage costs can add up quickly, especially if organizations do not manage their data efficiently. Implementing data lifecycle policies, such as archiving old data and deleting redundant data, can help control storage costs. Additionally, selecting the appropriate storage class based on access frequency and performance needs is essential. 17. Overlooking Software Licensing Costs Cloud transformation can sometimes lead to increased software licensing costs, particularly if organizations do not review their licensing agreements carefully. It's important to understand the licensing implications of moving to the cloud and to negotiate contracts that align with cloud usage patterns. 18. Inadequate Backup and Disaster Recovery Planning Backup and disaster recovery are critical components of cloud strategy, but inadequate planning in these areas can lead to unexpected costs. Organizations should ensure that their backup and recovery plans are cost-effective and align with their overall cloud strategy. This includes selecting the right tools and services for efficient data protection and recovery. 19. Failing to Leverage Cloud Provider Discounts Cloud providers often offer discounts for committed usage, volume purchases, and other incentives. Failing to leverage these discounts can result in higher costs. Organizations should actively seek out and take advantage of available discounts to optimize their cloud spending. Contact Gart and calculate cloud discounts for your case. 20. Not Considering Hidden Costs Hidden costs, such as those related to network latency, data retrieval, and specialized support, can significantly impact the overall cloud budget. Organizations should thoroughly assess all potential costs, including those that may not be immediately apparent, to avoid budget surprises. Final words Cloud transformation requires specialized expertise & careful planning. Contact us to address all organizational needs for a successful cloud transformation. Gart Solutions can help your organization avoid common cost traps and achieve business objectives efficiently. Review our latest Case Studies of our cloud migration & cost optimization projects.

What Makes a Great Cloud Consultant for SMBs

Key Services to Look For in Cloud Consulting

10 Best Cloud Consulting Companies for SMBs in 2025

1. Gart Solutions

2. IT Outposts

3. Dysnix

4. CIGen

5. nClouds

6. Cloudreach

7. Slalom

8. SADA

9. Mission Cloud

10. ClearScale

How to Choose the Right Cloud Consulting Partner

Success Stories

Final Thoughts

FAQ

Who is the best cloud consulting company for SMBs in 2025?

Why should SMBs work with a cloud consulting company?

How does Gart Solutions help SMBs reduce cloud costs?

What services does Gart Solutions provide to startups and SMBs?

Is Gart Solutions suitable for regulated industries like healthcare or fintech?

How does Gart Solutions compare to other top cloud consulting companies?

How can SMBs start working with Gart Solutions?

Why is cloud consulting critical for SMBs in 2025?

You might also like

Best IT Infrastructure Consulting Providers in 2025

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

20 Cloud Costs Optimization Traps: How to Reduce Cloud Waste?

Subscribe to our blog