A Comprehensive Comparison of IBM Cloud and Microsoft Azure

Abstract

The ever-growing demand for scalability, agility, and cost-effectiveness has fuelled cloud computing to the forefront of modern IT infrastructure. According to Precedence Research, the global cloud computing market size was valued at USD 480 billion in 2022 and is expected to hit USD 2297.37 billion by 2032 with a registered CAGR of 17% from 2023 to 2032 [1]. The growth of cloud computing is driven by various factors such as the rapid evolution of technology and the globalization of businesses. Cloud computing is already embraced in various industries like Financial Services, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail, Education, and Architecture Engineering & Construction (AEC), where it streamlines operations, enhances collaboration, and revolutionizes processes. Cloud computing holds immense potential, especially in sectors like healthcare, real estate, tourism, and small and medium enterprises, where it will facilitate faster and more informed decision-making processes through data collection and analysis. Additionally, cloud technology is revolutionizing government sectors by driving cost savings, enhancing efficiency, and promoting transparency and citizen engagement. With the increasing number of cloud computing service providers such as IBM, Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and others, it becomes crucial to delve into their technical nuances. Understanding how each provider's offerings align with specific business requirements, technical specifications, and future scalability is paramount for organizations venturing into their cloud journey. The main purpose of this paper is to explore and evaluate the technical dimensions of IBM Cloud and Microsoft Azure and understand its future potential.