Cloud infrastructure spending increased by $10 billion, reaching over $63 billion in the first quarter of 2017, according to Synergy Research Group.



The growth rate from the prior year was 19%, comparable to the previous quarter and lower than in previous years. Despite possible limitations caused by the current economic situation, the cloud industry is still expanding at a strong pace.

Microsoft and Google saw an increase in their global market shares, with AWS maintaining its market share range. Together these three companies controlled 65% of the global market. Public IaaS and PaaS services continue to dominate the majority of the market, increasing by 21% in Q1.

Overall, the cloud market is expanding rapidly across all regions, including North America, APAC, and EMEA with year-over-year growth rates of well over 20%. While some industries may be reducing cloud infrastructure spending, the advantages of cloud adoption continue to drive the market forward.

Additionally, the significant Chinese cloud sector has resumed expansion with telecoms benefiting more than conventional major internet businesses. With the US dollar providing tailwinds for cloud growth metrics in the EMEA and APAC regions, it is expected to further boost the industry.

These industry giants have established their dominance through a combination of extensive infrastructure, diverse service offerings, and strong customer support.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has been a pioneer in cloud computing, offering a wide array of services including computing power, database storage, content delivery, and other functionalities. Its global network of data centers ensures high availability and scalability for businesses of all sizes, making it a top choice for many organizations.

Microsoft Azure, with its deep integration with Windows operating systems and enterprise software, has gained traction among businesses looking for seamless cloud solutions. Its offerings span infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and software as a service (SaaS), catering to a broad spectrum of IT needs.

Google Cloud Platform, known for its expertise in data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, has attracted businesses seeking advanced technological capabilities. With a focus on innovation and cutting-edge solutions, Google Cloud Platform has emerged as a formidable player in the cloud services market.

While these top three providers collectively command a substantial portion of the market, it's important to note that the cloud industry is dynamic, with new entrants and niche providers constantly offering innovative services. Businesses evaluating cloud service options should consider factors such as cost, performance, security, and compatibility with existing systems to make informed decisions.
The dominant position of the top three cloud service providers underscores their pivotal role in shaping the global digital landscape. However, businesses should approach their selection process with a discerning eye, taking into account their specific requirements and the evolving nature of the cloud services market.