Object storage, also known as object-based storage, is a data storage architecture designed for handling large volumes of unstructured data. Unlike other storage architectures, it treats data as discrete units called objects, each consisting of the data itself, metadata, and a unique identifier. This identifier allows for easy location and access of the data.
Objects can be stored on-premises, but they are often hosted in the cloud, providing convenient access from anywhere. Object storage is known for its scalability and cost-effectiveness, making it a favorable option for storing large amounts of data compared to block storage.
Given that much of today’s data is unstructured—such as emails, media files, web pages, sensor data, and other digital content that doesn’t fit neatly into traditional databases—object storage has become an increasingly popular choice. It is especially suited for static content, data archives, and backups, offering efficient and affordable management of such data.
My personal favorites to work with are: