Linode Object Storage

Basic Information

Linode Object Storage is an Amazon S3-compatible, cloud-based file storage solution designed for high availability and durability. It stores data as discrete objects within flat structures called buckets, alongside rich metadata. This service is part of the broader Akamai Cloud platform, following Linode's acquisition by Akamai Technologies in February 2022.

• Model: Cloud-based Object Storage Service.
• Version: Continuously updated service; latest updates in 2025 introduced "Gen2" with significant performance and capacity improvements.
• Release Date: Late October 2019.
• Minimum Requirements: Access requires an internet connection and an S3-compatible client or API integration. No specific client-side hardware requirements beyond standard computing devices.
• Supported Operating Systems: Client-side access is OS-agnostic, compatible with any system supporting S3 API calls (e.g., Linux, Windows, macOS via various tools and SDKs).
• Latest Stable Version: As a managed cloud service, "stable version" refers to the ongoing service offering, with continuous improvements. Recent updates in 2025 include new endpoint types (E0-E3) and enhanced performance.
• End of Support Date: Not applicable as a continuously managed service. Deprecation notices for specific features or API versions would be communicated by Linode/Akamai.
• End of Life Date: Not applicable as a continuously managed service.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not applicable; service updates are managed by Linode/Akamai.
• License Type: Service agreement based, typically usage-based pricing.
• Deployment Model: Public Cloud.

Technical Requirements

Linode Object Storage is a managed cloud service, meaning the underlying infrastructure requirements (RAM, processor, storage, etc.) are handled by Linode/Akamai. Client-side technical requirements are minimal, focusing on connectivity and compatibility with S3 APIs.

• RAM: Not applicable for the service itself. Client applications interacting with the service require standard operating memory.
• Processor: Not applicable for the service itself. Client applications require standard processing capabilities.
• Storage: Offers scalable storage from 250 GB up to 5 PB per bucket, with the ability to store up to 10 billion objects per bucket.
• Display: Not applicable.
• Ports: Access typically occurs over standard HTTP/HTTPS ports (80, 443) for S3 API communication.
• Operating System: Client-side OS compatibility is broad, supporting any environment capable of making S3 API requests or running S3-compatible tools (e.g., Linode CLI, AWS CLI, s3cmd, Cyberduck).

Analysis of Technical Requirements

The technical requirements for Linode Object Storage are primarily infrastructure-level, managed by the provider. Users interact with the service via S3-compatible APIs, making it highly flexible regarding client-side environments. The service is designed for massive scalability, supporting large volumes of unstructured data and high request rates. Recent updates significantly boost performance and capacity, with new E3 endpoints offering the highest performance.

Support & Compatibility

Linode Object Storage offers broad compatibility due to its S3-compatible API, integrating with a wide ecosystem of tools and workflows.

• Latest Version: Continuously evolving service with recent "Gen2" updates in 2025 enhancing performance and capacity.
• OS Support: OS-agnostic for service consumption; compatible with any operating system that can utilize S3-compatible tools and SDKs (e.g., AWS CLI, Python boto3, Cyberduck, s3cmd).
• End of Support Date: Not applicable as a managed service; ongoing support is provided.
• Localization: Data centers are globally distributed, including North America, Europe, and Asia, allowing users to choose regions closer to their operations for lower latency.
• Available Drivers: Utilizes S3-compatible APIs, supported by various SDKs (e.g., AWS SDK for Python, PHP) and client tools (e.g., Linode CLI, s3cmd, Cyberduck).

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

Linode Object Storage demonstrates strong support and compatibility, primarily through its adherence to the Amazon S3 API standard. This ensures seamless integration with a vast array of existing S3-compatible applications, libraries, and tools. The global data center presence facilitates localization and reduced latency for users worldwide. Linode also provides 24/7 technical support via ticketing, email, and phone, alongside extensive documentation and a community forum.

Security Status

Linode Object Storage incorporates several security features, focusing on data protection and compliance, while operating under a shared security model.

• Security Features: Server-side encryption (SSE-S3 with AES-256 and SSE-C with customer-provided keys), object-level encryption, access keys with configurable permissions, DDoS protection, and 24/7 data center security.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread vulnerabilities are publicly highlighted for the core service; security is continuously managed by Akamai.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable for the service itself; individual user accounts or IP addresses could be subject to security measures if abuse is detected.
• Certifications: Linode (Akamai) is PCI DSS compliant and adheres to GDPR, EU-US Privacy Shield, and Swiss-US Privacy Shield. They also provide infrastructure that can be used to meet HIPAA standards.
• Encryption Support: Supports server-side encryption (SSE) with AES-256 for data at rest (SSE-S3) and customer-provided keys (SSE-C). TLS/SSL certificates can be uploaded for HTTPS access.
• Authentication Methods: Access keys (Access Key ID and Secret Access Key) are used for programmatic access, with options for limited access permissions per bucket.
• General Recommendations: Users are responsible for securing applications and software installed on their Linodes, managing their encryption keys for SSE-C, and following best practices for access control and data handling.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

Linode Object Storage maintains a robust security posture, particularly with its comprehensive encryption options, including both provider-managed and customer-managed keys for data at rest. Its S3-compatible nature allows for secure access control mechanisms. Linode's adherence to key compliance standards like PCI DSS and GDPR further strengthens its security rating, especially for enterprise use cases. The shared security model emphasizes user responsibility for application-level security, which is standard for cloud infrastructure providers.

Performance & Benchmarks

Linode Object Storage aims for high performance and scalability, with recent upgrades significantly boosting its capabilities.

• Benchmark Scores: Recent "Gen2" updates in 2025 delivered a 4x improvement in data workload performance and a 10x increase in storage capacity.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Capable of achieving up to 20,000 requests per second per bucket for high throughput workloads. High availability and durability are maintained through data replication across multiple servers and regions.
• Power Consumption: Not directly applicable to users as a managed cloud service. Managed by Linode/Akamai at the data center level.
• Carbon Footprint: Not directly applicable to users for a specific service; environmental impact is managed at the data center level by Akamai.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Positioned as a cost-effective alternative to hyperscale providers like AWS S3, offering competitive pricing and performance. Users often cite its straightforward and predictable billing as an advantage.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

Linode Object Storage demonstrates strong performance, particularly with its recent infrastructure upgrades. The ability to handle up to 20,000 requests per second and store petabytes of data per bucket makes it suitable for demanding applications. Its global distribution and high availability architecture ensure reliable access and data durability. While direct comparisons with all competitors are complex, user feedback often highlights its competitive performance and cost-effectiveness compared to larger cloud providers.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews generally highlight Linode Object Storage's affordability, S3 compatibility, and ease of use, while noting some limitations.

• Strengths:
  • Affordable and transparent pricing, often more cost-effective than hyperscale providers.
  • Amazon S3-compatible API, allowing easy integration with existing tools and workflows.
  • High availability and durability with data replication.
  • Good for static website hosting, backups, and storing unstructured data.
  • Scalable, adapting to growing workloads without reconfiguring.
  • Responsive customer support.
• Weaknesses:
  • Some users note a lack of advanced file management features, such as direct upload from a computer or moving files between buckets via the manager.
  • Requires a credit card for the free trial.
  • Ingress and egress fees apply, though inbound transfer is free and outbound transfer includes 1TB free.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Static website assets (images, videos, documents, web pages).
  • Media storage and content delivery.
  • Data archival and disaster recovery, including application backups and logs.
  • Storing large volumes of unstructured data, such as for machine learning or AI.
  • Hosting Nextcloud external storage.

Summary

Linode Object Storage, now part of Akamai Cloud, stands out as a highly scalable, durable, and cost-effective solution for storing unstructured data. Its core strength lies in its Amazon S3-compatible API, which ensures broad compatibility with a vast ecosystem of tools and applications, simplifying integration for developers and enterprises. The service is particularly well-suited for hosting static websites, managing media content, and serving as a reliable backend for backups and archival purposes.

Recent "Gen2" updates in 2025 have significantly boosted its performance, offering a 4x improvement in data workload performance and a 10x increase in storage capacity, with new E3 endpoints providing the highest capabilities. This positions Linode Object Storage as a strong contender for high-throughput applications requiring petabyte-scale storage. Security features are robust, including server-side encryption with AES-256 and support for customer-provided keys, alongside compliance with standards like PCI DSS and GDPR.

While user feedback generally praises its predictable pricing and responsive support, some minor limitations include a perceived lack of advanced file management features within the control panel and the presence of egress fees after a free tier. Overall, Linode Object Storage offers a compelling value proposition for businesses and developers seeking a reliable, high-performance, and affordable object storage solution with strong S3 compatibility and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.