Amazon Web Services (AWS) looks set to play along with regulators in the EU, with the launch of the AWS European Sovereign Cloud. This new and independent cloud infrastructure, operating solely within Europe, is designed to cater specifically to customers in highly regulated industries and the public sector. Fruthermore, it aims to provide enhanced choice, flexibility, and the ability to meet evolving data residency… And resilience requirements within the European Union (EU).
In terms of operation and support, only EU-resident AWS employees located within the region will have control. This is meant to ensure a robust adherence to local regulations and standards. The cloud infrastructure will be physically and logically distinct from existing AWS regions, yet will offer the same level of security, availability, and performance that AWS customers have come to expect.
AWS’s Experience and Offerings
AWS brings over a decade of experience in operating multiple independent clouds for critical and restricted workloads to the table, ensuring a sovereign-by-design approach for the European Sovereign Cloud. This new offering reinforces AWS’s commitment to providing advanced sovereignty controls, privacy safeguards, and a secure cloud environment.
Customers will have control and assurance regarding the access and use of their data. AWS is pledging not to access or use customer data without explicit agreement. Furthermore, metadata created by customers can be kept entirely within the EU. The cloud will feature its own billing and usage metering systems.
European Infrastructure and Connectivity
The AWS European Sovereign Cloud will debut with its first region in Germany, accessible to all European customers. Like other AWS regions, it will boast multiple Availability Zones. Each Zone will have its own independent power, cooling, and physical security, and interconnected through redundant, ultra-low latency networks. This design ensures business continuity, reduces risk, and delivers low latency for high availability applications.
AWS’s European infrastructure is robust, with eight regions across the continent and over 120 Content Distribution Network points of presence. This launch represents a significant investment in the region, promising to drive economic development, create jobs, and enhance digital skills.
A Welcome Development for Europe
The AWS European Sovereign Cloud has received a warm reception from customers, partners, and regulators across Europe. German Federal ministries and the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) have expressed their support, highlighting the potential for enhanced data security and protection.
Notably, AWS is actively collaborating with European regulators and national cybersecurity agencies to shape this sovereign cloud offering. This collaborative approach ensures that the AWS European Sovereign Cloud is aligned with European standards and regulations, fostering trust and compliance.
Customer and Partner Perspectives
Numerous organizations are voicing their support for AWS’s new sovereign cloud initiative. T-Systems, Dedalus, and O2 Telefónica have shared their positive outlook, emphasizing the benefits for regulated industries and the public sector. SAP SE also sees the potential for strengthened collaboration and expanded choices for customers transitioning to the cloud.
These perspectives underscore the significance of AWS’s investment in digital sovereignty and the positive impact it is poised to have on European businesses and public sector agencies.
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