Object storage vs file storage – what’s the difference?

Object storage and file storage are two central storage architectures. The main difference lies in the way data is organised: Object storage manages data as individual objects, while file storage is based on a hierarchical file system.

A direct comparison of object storage vs. file storage

To clearly present the key similarities and differences between object storage and file storage, a direct comparison of the main features is helpful. The following overview table summarises central characteristics, typical use cases, and technical differences, providing quick guidance on which storage type is better suited for specific applications.

Differences between object and file storage

Object storage and file storage are based on different architectures and each follows its own principles for organising and addressing data. Data access is also regulated differently. While file storage resembles the traditional file system, object storage is aligned with modern cloud principles featuring API-access, global scalability, and metadata.

Object storage is particularly suitable for large, unstructured data sets and distributed systems. File storage, on the other hand, offers structured hierarchies and is often found in corporate networks and operating systems. The choice depends on requirements such as access speed, metadata processing, scalability, and application type.

How do object storage and file storage work?

File storage organizes data in a hierarchical structure of directories and subdirectories. Files are stored in these folders, and each file receives a path for unique identification. Access is via standardised protocols like NFS (Network File System) or SMB/CIFS (Server Message Block), making file storage easy to integrate into local networks. File operations such as reading, writing, or locking occur at the operating system level. Access is often stateful and designed for simultaneous access by multiple users. Performance depends on network connectivity and server load. Metadata is usually limited to information like size, creation date, and file type.

Object storage takes a different approach: Data is stored as objects, each consisting of the actual data, user-defined metadata, and a unique ID. These objects are stored in so-called buckets and accessed via REST-based interfaces. Therefore, in object storage, there is no traditional file system. Changes typically create new objects, facilitating replication and versioning. The metadata structure is flexible, allowing easy categorisation. Object storage is designed to scale horizontally. This means it is intended to be efficient with a distributed architecture across regions or data centres. The access is stateless, making it particularly suitable for cloud-native applications.

Areas of application for object storage and file storage

The areas of application for object storage vs file storage also differ:

File storage is often used in traditional IT environments, such as offices, data centres, or networks with shared directories. Typical applications include user shares, file servers, home directories, project folders, and software development environments. It is also common to use file storage for applications that require a standardised file path, as is the case with content management systems. With support for locking mechanisms, file storage is ideal for concurrent access and team collaboration.

Object storage, on the other hand, is mainly used in cloud and big data scenarios. It is suitable for backups, archiving, log data, or IoT processes. Modern web applications that retrieve or upload data via HTTP-based APIs also greatly benefit from object storage. Additionally, object storage is ideal for content that is rarely changed but often read.

Similarities of storage architectures

Despite all the differences, object storage and file storage also share some similarities. Both offer network access to remote data resources and can be used in both cloud and on-premises environments. Both storage types enable redundant storage and high availability. They can also be automatically monitored and backed up, support role-based access controls, and are compatible with modern security concepts involving encryption and audit logs.

In hybrid architectures, object storage and file storage can be used in parallel, such as utilising object storage for archive data or backup purposes, while file storage manages operational working directories, user shares, or project-related files. This separation allows companies to work cost-effectively without sacrificing performance or user-friendliness. By combining both systems, the respective advantages can be specifically utilised.

Advantages and disadvantages of object storage vs file storage

Advantages and disadvantages of file storage

File storage scores with its familiar structure, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into operating systems and applications. It also supports simultaneous file access. These features make it the preferred solution in traditional IT environments. However, file storage quickly hits scaling limits with large data volumes or many simultaneous accesses. Additionally, vertical scaling can be costly and technically challenging.

Advantages and disadvantages of object storage

Object storage is ideal for modern, cloud-based workloads reliant on high scalability, global availability, and API-driven access. The ability to store extensive metadata makes object storage particularly appealing for archiving, media management, or big data applications. The architecture allows for easy distribution across multiple data centres. However, it lacks a traditional file hierarchy, complicating its use in traditional systems. Moreover, object storage is less user-friendly when working directly with individual files.