Migrate from AWS MediaStore: Your Guide to Amazon S3 and MediaPackage Options

As technology evolves, so do the services that support our digital needs. Recently, AWS announced the discontinuation of support for MediaStore, effective November 13, 2025. This change has prompted many users to seek alternatives for their media storage and streaming requirements. In this blog post, we will explore the implications of this shift and provide a practical guide on how to migrate to Amazon S3 and AWS Elemental MediaPackage.

Understanding the Discontinuation of MediaStore

AWS MediaStore has been a trusted service for media storage and streaming, especially for live video workflows. The cancellation of support means that from November 13, 2025, users will lose access to MediaStore and its functionalities.

Why Migrate to Amazon S3?

For those with simpler live video streaming workflows, Amazon S3 (Simple Storage Service) is an excellent alternative. S3 is a scalable object storage service that offers high durability, availability, and security. Here’s why Amazon S3 is worth considering:

1. Cost-Effectiveness

Amazon S3 operates on a pay-as-you-go pricing model. This means businesses only pay for the storage they use. For example, if your media storage needs are around 1 TB, you might spend approximately $23 per month compared to traditional storage solutions that charge flat rates regardless of usage.

2. Scalability

S3 can scale effortlessly with your needs. Whether storing a few gigabytes or petabytes, S3 can manage it without any hassle. This adaptability is crucial for fast-growing companies, as it allows them to accommodate an increase in data storage without interruption.

3. High Durability and Availability

Amazon S3 ensures an impressive 99.999999999% (11 nines) durability and 99.99% availability. This high level of reliability means you can trust that your media files are safe and accessible. A study showed that businesses may face losses upwards of $140,000 per hour during data outages. With S3's durability, the risk of such losses is minimized.

4. Integration with Other AWS Services

S3 integrates effortlessly with other AWS services. This capability allows businesses to build complex media workflows. For instance, you can use AWS Lambda to process media files and then analyze viewer statistics with Amazon Athena, all while relying on S3 as a central storage hub.

Migrating to Amazon S3: Step-by-Step Guide

Transitioning to Amazon S3 is a straightforward process that requires careful planning. Here’s a clear guide to facilitate your migration:

Step 1: Assess Your Current MediaStore Usage

Evaluate your current use of MediaStore. Identify what types of media files you store, how much data you possess, and any specific workflows that depend on MediaStore.

Step 2: Create an Amazon S3 Bucket

Log in to your AWS Management Console and create a new S3 bucket. Choose a unique name and select the region that best serves your audience.

Step 3: Configure Bucket Settings

Set your bucket settings according to your requirements. This includes permissions, versioning, and lifecycle policies. Ensure that your bucket is secure and only accessible to authorized users.

Step 4: Transfer Your Media Files

Use the AWS CLI, SDKs, or the S3 console to move your media files from MediaStore to your new S3 bucket.

Step 5: Update Your Workflows

Once your media files reside in S3, update all workflows previously using MediaStore. This might include changing URLs or updating API calls to ensure everything remains functional.

Step 6: Test Your New Setup

Before completely transitioning, thoroughly test your S3 configuration. Check for any access issues, streaming quality, or integration mishaps.

When to Consider AWS Elemental MediaPackage

For users with more complex workflows requiring advanced features like low-latency streaming or cross-region failover, AWS Elemental MediaPackage is an ideal alternative. It enhances video delivery with impressive capabilities:

1. Live and On-Demand Video Packaging

MediaPackage can effectively package both live and on-demand videos for delivery across various devices. This flexibility can help you reach a larger audience while maintaining high-quality content.

2. Support for Multiple Streaming Protocols

MediaPackage is compatible with several streaming protocols, such as HLS, DASH, and CMAF. This ensures that your content can play on a variety of devices, satisfying user preferences.

3. Enhanced Security Features

MediaPackage offers robust security options like encryption and token authentication, essential for protecting sensitive media. This security is particularly beneficial for companies that handle confidential content, such as financial institutions or healthcare providers.

4. Cross-Region Failover

For those needing high availability, MediaPackage features cross-region failover. This means that if one region goes offline, your media can still be delivered from another region, guaranteed uninterrupted service. Research indicates that 90% of companies experiencing data loss for more than five days filed for bankruptcy within a year. MediaPackage can help mitigate these risks.

Migrating to AWS Elemental MediaPackage: A Quick Overview

If AWS Elemental MediaPackage meets your advanced broadcast needs, follow these straightforward migration steps:

Step 1: Set Up MediaPackage

Log in to your AWS Management Console and create a new MediaPackage channel. Configure it according to your streaming requirements.

Step 2: Create Endpoints

Generate endpoints for your new MediaPackage channel, which will deliver your content to viewers efficiently.

Step 3: Configure Input Sources

Set up your input sources, including live streams or on-demand material. Make sure everything aligns properly with MediaPackage.

Step 4: Test Your Configuration

Before getting live, thoroughly test your MediaPackage configuration for any streaming or delivery issues.

Step 5: Update Your Applications

Modify any applications or services that use your media content to point to the new MediaPackage endpoints. This might include changing URLs or API calls from the previous service.

Final Thoughts

The discontinuation of AWS MediaStore introduces challenges but also opportunities for users. Transitioning to new services may seem daunting, but both Amazon S3 and AWS Elemental MediaPackage provide strong solutions for media storage and streaming.

By assessing your unique requirements and following the migration steps in this guide, you can ensure a smooth shift to a new media workflow. Whether you opt for the simplicity of Amazon S3 or the advanced capabilities of MediaPackage, you can continue delivering high-quality media experiences to your audience.

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