Final answer:
Azure Files can be synchronized with the cloud using Azure File Sync, which offers multi-site sync, cloud tiering, and integrated backup capabilities. You need to install the Azure File Sync agent on your server, create a Storage Sync Service, and configure sync groups and endpoints.
Step-by-step explanation:
To sync files with the cloud using Azure Files, the best method is to utilize Azure File Sync, which allows you to synchronize files between your on-premises file servers and Azure Files. This service enables seamless hybrid storage solutions and provides functionalities such as multi-site sync, cloud tiering, and integrated backup. With Azure File Sync, your data is continuously synchronized to the cloud, ensuring the files are available and up to date across all locations.
To get started with Azure File Sync, you first need to set up an Azure File share and then install the Azure File Sync agent on the Windows Server you want synced with the cloud. Once the agent is installed, you will create a Storage Sync Service and then set up a sync group and endpoints. Any changes to the synced files are reflected almost in real-time across all synced servers.
Also, Azure File Sync does not require that you move all the files to the cloud right away. The cloud tiering feature allows you to store only recently accessed files on local servers while the rest are offloaded to the cloud, optimizing the storage space on your local servers.