AWS Service for One-Time Large Dataset Migration
A company plans to perform a one-time migration of a large dataset with millions of files from its on-premises data center to the AWS Cloud. Which AWS service should the company use for the migration?
Community Votes
100% of anonymous learners picked answer B. Votes are pick records left by other test-takers — they are not the verified answer.
Community Insight
This question tests knowledge of AWS storage and migration services, specifically distinguishing between continuous data replication tools and high-speed transfer utilities for large-scale file sets.
Identify the correct AWS service for migrating large datasets from on-premises to AWS. This page explains why AWS DataSync is the optimal choice for one-time migrations of millions of files compared to other migration tools.
Learners often confuse AWS DataSync with AWS Database Migration Service (DMS) or Application Migration Service (MGN), failing to recognize that DMS is for databases and MGN is for live server migration, not bulk file transfers.
Community Discussion (3 comments)
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Expert Analysis
Why the Answer Is Correct
AWS DataSync is specifically designed for transferring data between on-premises storage systems and AWS storage services (such as Amazon S3, Amazon EFS, and Amazon FSx for Windows File Server). It handles large datasets efficiently by optimizing network utilization and performing deduplication, making it ideal for a one-time migration of millions of files. The service automates the movement of data, ensuring security and speed, which aligns perfectly with the scenario described.Why the Other Options Are Wrong
AWS Database Migration Service (A) is used for migrating relational and NoSQL databases, not generic file datasets. AWS Migration Hub (C) provides a single place to track the progress of application migrations but does not perform the actual data transfer itself; it relies on other tools like DataSync or Snowball. AWS Application Migration Service (D) is designed for lift-and-shift migration of physical, virtual, and cloud-based servers to AWS, involving running applications rather than just moving static files.Community Comment Notes
The community consensus strongly supports AWS DataSync as the correct answer. Users highlighted that DataSync is 'designed for transferring large amounts of data quickly and securely' and is 'well-suited for one-time migrations of large datasets.' One commenter noted that 'one-time-key for AWS DataSync' is a critical differentiator, emphasizing its suitability for this specific use case over continuous replication services.Official Reference
Exam Strategy
When you see keywords like 'large dataset', 'millions of files', and 'on-premises to AWS', think about data transfer services first. Differentiate between database migration (DMS), server migration (MGN), and file/data sync (DataSync or Snow Family). For one-time large file transfers, DataSync is the primary managed service to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why not use AWS Snowball for this migration?
Snowball is typically used when network bandwidth is insufficient or for offline transfers. DataSync is preferred for online, one-time migrations where network connectivity allows for efficient transfer.
What is the difference between DataSync and Storage Gateway?
Storage Gateway provides hybrid storage access to AWS cloud storage, while DataSync is focused solely on automated data transfer tasks between on-premises and AWS storage services.
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