Google Cloud is expanding its Cross-Cloud Interconnect service to include Amazon Web Services (AWS) and other partner clouds, aiming to simplify connectivity and data transfer between different cloud environments. This move addresses a growing need for organizations utilizing multi-cloud strategies, allowing for more seamless integration and reduced latency. The expansion, announced on February 19, 2026, comes as businesses increasingly adopt hybrid and multi-cloud approaches to optimize costs, enhance resilience, and avoid vendor lock-in.
The core challenge in multi-cloud environments has traditionally been establishing reliable and high-performance connections between disparate cloud platforms. Direct connections can be complex and expensive to set up, and maintain. Google Cloud’s Cross-Cloud Interconnect aims to streamline this process, offering a managed service that simplifies network configuration and reduces the operational overhead associated with multi-cloud deployments. This is particularly relevant as the total number of websites continues to grow; Forbes reported in 2025 that the number of websites globally is constantly increasing, driving demand for scalable and interconnected cloud solutions.
What is Cross-Cloud Interconnect?
Cross-Cloud Interconnect provides dedicated, private connections between Google Cloud and other cloud providers, as well as on-premises data centers. This allows organizations to transfer large datasets, run applications across multiple clouds, and implement disaster recovery solutions more effectively. The service leverages Google’s global network infrastructure to deliver low latency and high bandwidth, crucial for performance-sensitive applications. The initial expansion focuses on AWS, recognizing its position as a leading cloud provider with a significant market share. Further integrations with other partner clouds are planned, though specific timelines haven’t been disclosed.
According to Google Cloud, the expanded service will offer several benefits, including improved security, reduced costs, and simplified management. By establishing direct connections, organizations can bypass the public internet, minimizing exposure to potential security threats. The managed nature of the service likewise reduces the burden on IT teams, allowing them to focus on core business initiatives rather than network infrastructure. The service is designed to integrate with existing network configurations, minimizing disruption during deployment.
Geopolitical Context and Regional Stakes
The expansion of Cross-Cloud Interconnect occurs against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny regarding data sovereignty and security. Recent reports from The Guardian revealed that both Google and Amazon were allegedly pressured by Israeli authorities to utilize a “secret ‘wink’” to circumvent legal orders, raising concerns about data privacy and government access to user information. While the specifics of these allegations are contested, they underscore the importance of secure and transparent cloud connectivity solutions.
The ability to securely transfer data between cloud providers is also becoming increasingly important in light of evolving data protection regulations, such as the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and similar legislation in other regions. Organizations operating in multiple jurisdictions must comply with a complex web of data privacy laws, and Cross-Cloud Interconnect can help them meet these requirements by providing a secure and auditable data transfer mechanism. Securing AI workloads is a growing concern, as highlighted by Palo Alto Networks, which recently emphasized the need for AI Runtime Protection at Google Cloud Next.
Privacy Concerns and Google’s Data Practices
Concerns about data privacy and Google’s data collection practices remain prevalent. Private Internet Access VPN recently published information detailing how Google collects user data and offering methods to limit tracking. These concerns highlight the need for users and organizations to understand Google’s data policies and take steps to protect their privacy. The Cross-Cloud Interconnect service itself does not directly address these privacy concerns, but it does offer organizations greater control over their data transfer pathways, potentially mitigating some risks.
Looking ahead, the success of Cross-Cloud Interconnect will depend on its ability to deliver on its promises of improved security, reduced costs, and simplified management. The expansion to AWS is a significant step, but continued integration with other cloud providers will be crucial to establishing Google Cloud as a central hub for multi-cloud connectivity. The evolving geopolitical landscape and increasing regulatory scrutiny will also play a role, shaping the future of cloud infrastructure and data transfer solutions.
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