What is Azure Data Box?
Azure Data Box is a family of physical devices for secure offline transfer of large data volumes to and from Azure. The service is useful when a network transfer would be too slow or too costly due to data volume, bandwidth, or limited connectivity. Ordering, shipment tracking, and status are managed through the Data Box service in the Azure portal.
Core Features
- Multiple device sizes: Data Box Disk (SSD set, roughly 35 TB usable) for smaller volumes, plus Data Box and the more powerful next-gen devices with up to 525 TB usable capacity for very large migrations
- AES-256 encryption of data on the device and secure erasure certified to NIST 800-88 once the transfer is complete
- Import to Azure Storage and export from Azure Storage
- Rugged, tamper-evident packaging with sealed screws or stickers
- Managed via a local web UI for initial setup and the Azure portal for ongoing administration
- Integration with services such as Azure File Sync and Azure Backup, as well as partner solutions (e.g., Veeam, Commvault)
Typical Use Cases
- Initial large-scale data migration to the cloud, e.g., for VM, database, or application migrations
- Seeding backup solutions with an initial bulk transfer followed by incremental network synchronization
- Periodic import of continuously generated large data volumes (e.g., sensor data, media content)
- Export from Azure for disaster recovery, regulatory requirements, or migrating back on-premises or to another provider
Benefits
- Significantly faster than a network transfer for very large data volumes or limited bandwidth
- No need for additional egress network infrastructure
- Strong security through hardware encryption, tamper protection, and certified erasure procedures
- Simple handling without complex on-site network configuration
Integration with innFactory
As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, innFactory supports planning and executing large data migrations with Azure Data Box: choosing the right device model, coordinating with target services such as Azure Storage or Azure File Sync, and validating results after migration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Data Box variants are currently available?
Data Box Disk (a set of up to five 8 TB SSDs, roughly 35 TB usable), Data Box (up to 80 TB usable), and the next-generation Data Box devices with 120 TB or 525 TB usable capacity. Data Box Heavy has been retired and can no longer be ordered, and the classic 80 TB device is being phased out in favor of the next-gen devices.
How secure is the transfer?
The devices use AES-256 encryption, a Trusted Platform Module or hardware root of trust, and tamper-evident packaging. Once data is uploaded (or reaches its destination for exports), all data is securely erased according to NIST 800-88 guidelines.
How long does the process take?
Total duration depends on device availability, shipping, and data volume, and covers ordering, delivery, local data copy, return shipment, and upload to Azure. For concrete timelines, it's best to coordinate with Azure support or sales.
Can I also export data from Azure?
Yes, an export order lets you move data from Azure Storage offline to on-premises or another data center, for example for disaster recovery, compliance archiving, or migrating away from Azure.
Note: All product information on this page has been compiled with care, but is provided without guarantee and may be outdated or incomplete. Cloud services evolve rapidly — features, pricing, SLAs, and availability change frequently. Authoritative and up-to-date information can only be found on the official product page of Azure (official documentation). This page does not represent an offer by Azure.
