More and More European Companies Are Asking a Fundamental Question: Do we really need to store everything in the cloud – or is it time to return to local data storage?
What was once considered the only viable option is now being reconsidered – especially in light of legal uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and rising demands for security and compliance.
Local data storage is regaining relevance. And not for nostalgic reasons, but because it offers companies more control, transparency, and adaptability – provided the transition is professionally planned and, most importantly, properly migrated.
Cloud Dependency as a Systemic Risk
Large parts of Europe’s IT infrastructure rely on just a few U.S.-based hyperscalers. According to recent market analyses, Amazon, Microsoft, and Google control around two-thirds of the EU cloud market. While this concentration brings economic efficiency, it also introduces structural risks.
Because:
U.S. laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA allow authorities access to data – even if stored physically in Europe.
Companies running mission-critical processes on foreign infrastructure lose control over availability and security of their data in critical situations.
Long-term contracts often tie organizations to specific providers for years – making exit strategies complex, but not impossible.
Local Storage Solutions: Regaining Control
Local data storage – whether on-premise or in a regional partner’s data center – offers a different foundation for IT strategy:
- Full control over access, location, and architecture
- Complete GDPR compliance and adherence to national security regulations
- Reduction of vendor lock-in and egress costs
- Better alignment with industry-specific requirements
For organizations handling sensitive data – such as in industry, healthcare, or the public sector – local infrastructures offer a robust, traceable, and auditable framework.
Data Migration: A Challenge With Value
The path to greater digital autonomy often leads through structured data migration. While the process may seem daunting, it offers tremendous potential:
- Streamline systems: Identify and decommission outdated data and redundant applications
- Boost security: Eliminate cloud-era vulnerabilities, implement targeted encryption
- Modernize architecture: Use migration as an opportunity to rethink and simplify processes
- Enable hybrid scenarios: Not everything has to move at once – transitional models provide planning security
With a clear migration strategy, even large data sets can be transferred efficiently and with minimal risk – either fully local or in a staged model with regional hosting.
Sovereignty Starts With Infrastructure – Not Providers
Digital control doesn’t come simply by switching cloud providers. It’s rooted in the ability to enforce your own rules – through technology, processes, and access rights. Local storage solutions provide this freedom: they make infrastructure transparent, legally sound, and future-ready.
While others remain entangled in global dependencies, on-premise solutions allow you to:
Clearly document data flows
Enforce security policies directly
Demonstrate compliance in real time
Conclusion: Now Is the Time to Design a Resilient Architecture
Local data storage isn’t a step backward – it’s a step forward toward control, clarity, and resilience. Companies that invest today in a solid storage and migration strategy gain not just security, but also new freedom: to innovate, to operate efficiently – and to achieve true digital sovereignty.
Planning a data migration or looking to store business-critical data locally? We’re here to support you – from assessment to secure execution. With a clear migration plan, deep technical expertise, and a focus on what really matters: your long-term strategy.
FAQ - Local Data Storage
1. Why is local data storage relevant again?
Local storage solutions offer greater control, meet strict data protection standards, and reduce cloud dependency.
2. What’s the difference between on-premise and cloud storage?
On-premise means the company operates its own IT infrastructure, while cloud services are externally and often globally hosted.
3. Is migrating data out of the cloud difficult?
With professional planning and the right tools, migration can be carried out securely, gradually, and without business interruption.
4. How does local data storage support GDPR compliance?
Data stored within the country is subject exclusively to national laws – significantly reducing legal risk.
5. Who benefits most from on-premise solutions?
Organizations with sensitive data, regulatory requirements, or a desire for technical independence.