Data storage is how different data is stored and managed in your organization. The type of data storage that you implement is based on two things: structure of your data and how your data is accessed.

Data can be highly organized. Other data is less structured. Some data is used only by specific users like system administrators or file owners. And other data is used by all users, including internal employees and external partners.

Therefore data can be classified as structured, semi-structured, or unstructured. Structured data is highly organized and easily searchable in relational databases. Semi-structured data is not as organized as structured data but still contains some organizational properties that make it easier to analyze. Unstructured data is raw and unorganized, making it difficult to collect, process, and analyze.

In Azure we have 4 main types of data storage solutions for non-relational data:

  1. Blob Storage: This is used for storing large amounts of unstructured data, such as text, images, videos, or binary data. It’s ideal for most general-purpose storage, e. g., backup, and archival purposes.
  2. Azure Files Storage: This is used for storing files and folders in a file system-like structure. It’s ideal for sharing files between different applications and users.
  3. Queue Storage: This is used for storing messages that are sent and received by different components of an application. It’s ideal for implementing a message-based architecture.
  4. Managed Disks: This is used for storing virtual machine disks and other data that requires high availability and durability. It’s ideal for applications that require persistent storage.

TLDR

When designing a data storage solution for non-relational data, it’s important to consider the structure of your data, how it will be accessed, and the specific requirements of your application. In Azure, you have four main options: Blob Storage for unstructured data, Azure Files Storage for file sharing, Queue Storage for message-based architectures, and Managed Disks for persistent storage needs.

Happy hacking!