What’s the difference between cloud object storage vs HDFS

Cloud object storage has emerged as a cost-effective, scalable alternative to HDFS, transforming how data is managed in cloud computing environments. Unlike HDFS, which stores data in files, object storage manages data in objects, providing architectural distinctions that offer improved storage capabilities and concurrency for distributed data workloads. This technology is particularly beneficial for parallel processing applications, as it allows multiple servers to read data simultaneously, which is enhanced by query engines like Starburst. Cloud object storage, provided by major platforms such as Amazon S3, Microsoft Azure Blob Storage, and Google Cloud Storage, supports dynamic scaling, enabling automatic resource adjustments to meet peak demands and allowing precise resource management. The separation of compute and storage in cloud environments leads to significant cost savings, as users only pay for the resources they utilize. While on-premises installations using HDFS remain relevant, the shift toward object storage reflects a broader industry trend favoring the cloud's flexibility and efficiency.