Review of Cloud Migration Strategies: Exploring Advantages, Challenges and Cost Analysis

Abstract

Cloud migration has emerged as a strategic im- perative for organizations seeking to leverage the scalability, flexibility, and cost efficiencies offered by cloud computing. This paper presents a comprehensive survey of organizational cloud migration strategies, focusing on the advantages, challenges, and cost analysis associated with this transformative process. The study begins by elucidating the conceptual framework of cloud migration, delineating its fundamental principles and terminolo- gies. Subsequently, it delves into the myriad advantages that com- pel organizations to migrate from on-premises infrastructures to cloud-based solutions. These advantages include enhanced scalability, improved resource utilization, and accelerated time- to-market for new initiatives. However, the migration journey is fraught with challenges, ranging from data security concerns to compatibility issues with legacy systems. This paper meticulously examines these challenges and elucidates strategies employed by organizations to overcome them, thereby ensuring a smooth tran- sition to the cloud. Cost analysis constitutes a pivotal aspect of cloud migration decision-making. This study offers insights into the cost implications associated with various cloud deployment models, such as Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). By conducting a comparative analysis of capital expenditures (CapEx) and op- erational expenditures (OpEx) incurred in both on-premises and cloud environments, organizations can make informed decisions regarding cost optimization and resource allocation. Further- more, the paper explores the critical considerations surrounding data security, regulatory compliance, and vendor selection in the context of cloud migration. Real-world case studies are presented to illustrate successful migration strategies adopted by leading organizations across diverse industries. Keywords —Cloud migration, Cost analysis, Strategies, Re- hosting, Replatforming, Refactoring, Repurchasing, Retiring, Retaining