What is AWS DataSync?
AWS DataSync is a managed data transfer service that automates moving large amounts of data between on-premises storage systems and AWS storage services. The service uses specialized protocols that are up to 10x faster than traditional copy tools.
DataSync automatically handles complex tasks like network optimization, encryption, integrity verification, and error recovery. A locally installed agent connects to your storage systems and securely transfers data to S3, EFS, or FSx (Windows File Server, Lustre, OpenZFS, NetApp ONTAP). In addition to on-premises sources, DataSync also supports migrating from storage services at other cloud providers.
Core Features
- High Speed: A single agent can fully utilize a 10 Gbps network link; up to 10x faster than traditional tools like rsync
- Automatic Validation: Integrity checking with checksums during and after transfer
- Incremental Transfers: Transfers only changed data for efficient synchronization
- Encryption: TLS encryption during transfer, optional encryption at rest
- Scheduling: Automatic scheduled execution for regular synchronization
Typical Use Cases
Cloud Migration: Migrate petabytes of data from on-premises NAS or file servers to S3 or EFS. DataSync accelerates migrations that would take months with traditional methods to weeks or days.
Hybrid Workflows: Regularly synchronize data between on-premises systems and AWS for cloud-based processing. DataSync automatically transfers new and changed files on schedule.
Disaster Recovery: Replicate critical data to AWS for disaster recovery. DataSync validates integrity and can quickly transfer large amounts of data back on-premises during an outage.
Benefits
- Up to 10x faster than traditional copy methods like rsync
- No network configuration or scripts required
- Automatic error handling and retries
- Pay-per-GB with no minimum fees or upfront costs
Integration with innFactory
As an AWS Reseller, innFactory supports you with AWS DataSync: migration planning, agent deployment, network optimization, and hybrid storage architectures.
Typical Use Cases
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AWS DataSync?
AWS DataSync is a managed data transfer service that automates moving large amounts of data between on-premises storage and AWS. The service is up to 10x faster than traditional copy methods.
Which storage systems does DataSync support?
DataSync supports NFS, SMB, HDFS, self-managed object storage, and storage at other cloud providers (including Google Cloud Storage, Azure Files/Blob Storage) as sources. Supported destinations include S3 (all storage classes), EFS, and FSx (Windows File Server, Lustre, OpenZFS, NetApp ONTAP).
How fast is AWS DataSync?
DataSync uses a purpose-built network protocol with parallel transfer, incremental transfers, and compression. A single agent can fully utilize a 10 Gbps network link; multiple agents can be deployed in parallel to further increase throughput.
Is data integrity verified?
Yes, DataSync performs automatic integrity checks during and after transfer. Checksums are calculated and compared to ensure source and destination are identical.
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