Types of cloud storage: Understanding the key models and how they work

In today’s digital-first economy, the types of cloud storage an organisation adopts directly influence its agility, resilience, and ability to scale. Cloud storage allows data to be stored on remote servers managed by third-party providers and accessed securely over the internet. Instead of relying on physical infrastructure, businesses use virtualised environments that grow with demand and support modern, distributed operations.

To make the right choice, organisations must understand not only the different types of cloud storage, but also how each model works, where it fits best, and what trade-offs it involves. This guide explains the key cloud storage models, how data is organised within them, and how businesses can align storage decisions with operational and regulatory needs.

What are the different types of cloud storage?

Broadly, cloud storage can be understood through two lenses. The first is how the infrastructure is deployed and who controls it. The second is how data is technically organised within that infrastructure. Together, these perspectives define the full spectrum of different types of cloud storage available to enterprises today.

By selecting the right mix, organisations can lower infrastructure costs, improve availability, and maintain the right balance between performance, security, and flexibility.

Types of cloud storage by deployment model

The deployment model determines ownership, access, and control of the cloud environment. The three most widely used models are:

• Public cloud storage
  Public cloud storage is delivered over shared infrastructure managed by a cloud provider. It offers high scalability and cost efficiency through a pay-as-you-go pricing model. This option suits organisations that want rapid deployment, global accessibility, and minimal infrastructure overhead for general workloads.

• Private cloud storage
  Private cloud storage is dedicated to a single organisation. It provides greater control over data, configuration, and security policies, making it suitable for sensitive workloads or strict regulatory environments. While typically more expensive than public cloud, it offers stronger governance and customisation.

• Hybrid cloud storage
  Hybrid cloud storage combines public and private environments. Sensitive or regulated data can remain in a private cloud, while less critical workloads use the public cloud for elasticity and cost efficiency. This model is increasingly popular because it supports flexibility without compromising security.

These three models are often referred to as the core 4 types of cloud storage in business discussions, alongside community cloud in some industry contexts.

Types of cloud storage by data organisation

Beyond deployment, cloud storage is also defined by how data is structured and accessed:

• Object storage
  Object storage manages data as discrete objects, each paired with metadata and a unique identifier. It is ideal for large volumes of unstructured data such as images, videos, backups, and analytics datasets. Its scalability and durability make it well-suited for modern digital workloads.

• Block storage
  Block storage divides data into fixed-size blocks that can be accessed independently. This enables high performance and low latency, which is essential for databases, transactional systems, and enterprise applications.

• File storage
  File storage organises data in a hierarchical structure of folders and files, similar to traditional file systems. It is commonly used for shared drives and collaborative environments where users require familiar access patterns.

Understanding these architectural options is essential when evaluating the types of cloud storage needed for specific workloads.

How do you choose the right type of cloud storage?

Selecting the right cloud storage model requires aligning technical capabilities with business priorities rather than defaulting to a single approach.

What factors should you consider?

Several factors should guide decision-making:

• Accessibility and collaboration: Distributed teams may need shared, real-time access across locations.

• Security and compliance: Sensitive data demands strong encryption, access controls, and regulatory alignment.

• Scalability and performance: Storage must scale seamlessly without degrading application performance.

• Cost management: Balancing operational expenditure with long-term value is critical.

Evaluating these factors together helps organisations choose the most appropriate mix of different types of cloud storage.

Key benefits of different cloud storage types

Adopting cloud storage delivers tangible advantages across operations:

1. Global accessibility enables teams to work from anywhere without disruption.

2. Real-time synchronisation ensures data consistency across devices and users.

3. Seamless collaboration allows multiple users to access and update content simultaneously.

4. Robust security features such as encryption and backups reduce data loss risks.

5. Cost efficiency eliminates the need for large upfront infrastructure investments.

6. Compliance and archiving capabilities support regulatory obligations and business continuity.

These benefits explain why organisations increasingly rely on diverse types of cloud storage rather than a single solution.

Common challenges with cloud storage types

Despite its advantages, cloud storage introduces challenges that must be managed carefully:

1. Security and privacy risks require continuous monitoring and governance.

2. Internet dependency means availability is tied to network reliability.

3. Cost overruns can occur if usage is not actively tracked.

4. Vendor lock-in may limit flexibility when switching providers.

5. Regulatory complexity demands careful data residency and compliance planning.

Awareness of these issues helps organisations mitigate risks while maximising value.

Use cases for each type of cloud storage

Different workloads benefit from different models:

1. Object storage is best for unstructured data, media libraries, and analytics workloads.

2. Block storage supports databases and performance-critical enterprise applications.

3. Hybrid cloud storage suits organisations balancing sensitive data protection with scalable workloads.

4. Cloud-based backup and disaster recovery ensure resilience and rapid recovery after disruptions.

Matching use cases to the right types of cloud storage is key to operational efficiency.

Simplifying cloud storage choices with Tata Communications’ expertise

Navigating the types of cloud storage can be complex without the right partner. Tata Communications simplifies this journey through its enterprise-grade Vayu Cloud platform.

Tata Communications delivers secure, scalable, and fully managed storage services aligned with global compliance standards. Its portfolio spans object and block storage, integrated compute, and backup and disaster recovery, enabling organisations to design storage strategies that fit their digital fabric. With deep expertise and global reach, Tata Communications helps businesses maximise cloud value with its cloud solutions while minimising operational risk.

Conclusion

Cloud storage solutions have transformed how organisations manage and access data, replacing rigid on-premises systems with flexible, scalable solutions. By understanding the different types of cloud storage, from public and private deployments to object, block, and file architectures, businesses can align storage strategies with performance, security, and cost objectives.

For organisations seeking a trusted partner, Tata Communications sets a benchmark in managed, secure cloud storage. The right combination of technology and expertise ensures that cloud storage becomes an enabler of growth rather than a source of complexity.

Get in touch with our experts to discuss your requirements and explore the most suitable cloud storage options. Schedule a conversation.