AWS & Azure: compare both platforms before you migrate
AWS & Azure rank among the cloud platforms that businesses use most, from start-ups to large groups. For a Belgian SME, the choice depends on your existing tools, your skills and your constraints. This page gives you the key points to check before you commit. We also cover costs, security and the GDPR.
AWS & Azure: what really sets them apart
Both platforms cover everyday needs: virtual servers, databases, storage, backups and artificial intelligence tools. The real difference lies elsewhere. Microsoft's cloud integrates naturally with Microsoft 365, Teams and Entra ID, which simplifies life for companies already using them. Amazon's offering, on the other hand, has a very broad catalogue and a large technical community. In addition, both providers operate data centres in Europe, which matters for your data. Both also let you start small and grow as your needs change.
To choose, start from what you already use rather than from technical sheets. Which software do you rely on today? Who will manage the platform day to day? Which applications must you host, and how available must they be? For example, a company that already works with Microsoft 365 will often lean towards Microsoft's ecosystem. Meanwhile, a team used to Amazon's tools will usually stay in that environment. Also keep in mind that a simple showcase website rarely needs AWS & Azure: managed hosting is usually enough and far easier to run.
Costs, security and GDPR on AWS & Azure
Pay-as-you-go pricing is attractive, but it requires discipline. Set budgets and alerts from day one, remove unused resources and pick server sizes that match your real needs. Review the bill every month with someone who understands each line. On security, AWS & Azure apply a shared responsibility model: the provider protects the infrastructure, while you manage access, passwords and configuration. At the very least, enable two-factor authentication and regular backups.
The GDPR also applies in the cloud. Choose a European region: AWS & Azure both offer several. Next, sign the provider's data processing agreement and keep your record of processing activities up to date. Furthermore, document where your data lives and who can access it. Finally, check how you can export your data if you ever change provider. This traceability reassures your customers and makes audits easier.
Our articles and how Espero-Soft can help
Our article on the advantages of cloud computing for Belgian businesses explains how this approach transforms the management of IT infrastructure. It also details how to migrate safely and reduce your costs. It therefore makes a good starting point before you compare AWS & Azure for your own projects. It also helps you decide which applications to move first.
Call on a professional for a migration, a custom architecture or a cost review. At Espero-Soft, we analyse your situation and then recommend the platform that suits you best. We then prepare the migration in stages, with tests and a rollback plan. We also explain each choice in plain language. Once you are in production, we can also monitor costs and security with you.
