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AWS Snowball Reviews

Vendor: Amazon Web Services (AWS)
4.2 out of 5
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What is AWS Snowball?

Snowball is a petabyte-scale data transport solution that uses devices designed to be secure to transfer large amounts of data into and out of the AWS Cloud. Using Snowball addresses common challenges with large-scale data transfers including high network costs, long transfer times, and security concerns. Customers today use Snowball to migrate analytics data, genomics data, video libraries, image repositories, backups, and to archive part of data center shutdowns, tape replacement or application migration projects. Transferring data with Snowball is simple, fast, more secure, and can be as little as one-fifth the cost of transferring data via high-speed Internet.

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Buyer's Guide
Cloud Migration
December 2024
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Key learnings from peers

Valuable Features

AWS Snowball offers high-speed data transfer with low cost, robust security measures, and flexibility. Users value its user-friendly interface, high capacity, scalability, and cost-effectiveness compared to internet transfers. It features end-to-end encryption, tamper-evident seals, and access control, enhancing data security and management. Its ability to handle data without user-owned infrastructure and provide physical security is appreciated. Managed services save time and reduce administrative tasks, while continuous innovation supports diverse domain needs.
  • "AWS helps save time and costs, being a managed cloud provider with evolving services."
  • "AWS offers managed services which save time and reduce administrative overhead."
  • "The flexibility of AWS Snowball is valuable. Its security allows for the ability to move and secure data without concern if the device is lost and the option to trace it back to AWS data centers."

Room for Improvement

AWS Snowball could benefit from more connectivity options and broader global availability. Enhancements to ease of use for beginners and improved prepackaging for various industries are needed. Users report stability issues and seek improved support responsiveness. Concerns include time-consuming data transfers, risks associated with physical handling, and potential unauthorized data access. Enhanced security features during transit and better data validation post-transfer are also desired.
  • "AWS support could be more responsive."
  • "If AWS Snowball is intercepted, there is a potential risk of unauthorized access to the data."
  • "There's always room for improvement as you use the service more and gain expertise. Some challenges I've faced include the time factor (data transfer can be time-consuming), data validation after the transfer, risks associated with physical handling and shipping of the device, and ensuring data security during transit."

ROI

Users reported a significant reduction in data transfer time and costs with AWS Snowball. They mentioned streamlined operations and enhanced efficiency. The initial investment was quickly recovered due to lower operational expenses. Enhanced data security and reliability contributed to improved business continuity. Users experienced faster time-to-insight and a notable decrease in manual handling errors, validating their decision to use AWS Snowball for their data migration and storage needs, enhancing overall business performance.

Pricing

AWS Snowball users experience varying pricing perceptions. While some find it costly, others appreciate its affordability, particularly with on-demand and committed upfront pricing models. Pricing is influenced by the type of Snowball device, data volume, and service fees. It includes a flat job fee with ten days of on-site usage. Additional considerations may include customs fees for shipping. Organizations should assess their data correctly and build the AWS architecture properly to optimize costs.
  • "The tool's pricing depends on the type of Snowball device you choose, the amount of data you need to transfer, and the service fees involved. There’s a standard price for larger data transfers and a flat job fee, which includes the first ten days of on-site usage. Typically, there are no additional data transfer fees."
  • "It's not a cheap solution, but the price is right for the product."

Popular Use Cases

AWS Snowball is primarily used for large-scale data transfer and migration, providing secure and efficient movement of data to AWS Cloud. Businesses utilize it for data extraction, transformation, and loading (ETL) processes and disaster recovery. By facilitating data transfer without heavy reliance on internet connections, it offers faster transitions for clients. Its hybrid model supports secure data transfers from on-premises environments to AWS data centers or warehouses, making it a valuable tool for organizations.

Service and Support

AWS Snowball users find technical support excellent, especially for data transfer issues. While some manage customer service internally, many value AWS support's expertise and quick response time. Support is knowledgeable and necessary for critical issues, though response times could be improved. Access to AWS support alongside comprehensive documentation is crucial. Users frequently commend their experience, noting satisfaction with support quality and reliability, though some mainly rely on in-house teams, contacting AWS for complex problems.

Deployment

The initial setup of AWS Snowball is described as straightforward by some, requiring minimal steps, though others find it complex and suggest assistance is needed. Deployment time varies by project size; simple tasks can be swift, while complex ones may take longer. Some users rate the setup's ease highly, mentioning clear instructions, while noting the necessity of prior AWS knowledge. Steps involve using the AWS management console to create jobs and specify details.

Scalability

AWS Snowball is described as highly scalable with elastic capabilities. Users praise its ability to handle large numbers of users, noting elastic and manual scaling as its strengths. While praised for scalability, challenges arise when scaling urgently before the device return. Users highlight its reliability for medium-sized businesses and handling extensive user bases. Some users mention needing continuous requests for urgent scalability, though others see its scalability rating positively, reaching up to ten thousand users.

Stability

AWS Snowball demonstrates strong stability, with many experiencing no issues and rating it highly. Users appreciate its effectiveness, especially when storing data on-premises. While some report it as exceptionally stable, others note occasional instance failures. Nonetheless, infrastructure support from AWS enhances its reliability. There are mentions of needed improvements, but the consensus rates its stability positively, with scores reaching up to nine out of ten. Its infrastructure is a significant factor contributing to its perceived stability.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our Cloud Migration Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
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Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Computer Software Company
14%
Financial Services Firm
13%
Government
9%
Manufacturing Company
9%
Retailer
6%
University
5%
Energy/Utilities Company
5%
Insurance Company
4%
Educational Organization
4%
Healthcare Company
4%
Comms Service Provider
3%
Hospitality Company
2%
Construction Company
2%
Real Estate/Law Firm
2%
Legal Firm
2%
Non Profit
2%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
2%
Logistics Company
2%
Outsourcing Company
2%
Media Company
1%
Transportation Company
1%
Aerospace/Defense Firm
1%
Performing Arts
1%
Pharma/Biotech Company
1%
Wholesaler/Distributor
1%
Consumer Goods Company
1%
Marketing Services Firm
1%

Learn more about AWS Snowball

AWS Snowball was previously known as Amazon AWS Snowball, Amazon Snowball, Snowball.

Product Video

AWS Snowball customers

Wazee Digital, Craftsy, Live Nation, Essess

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