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General-purpose v2 (GPv2) storage accounts are the recommended account type for most Azure storage scenarios. GPv2 provides access to the latest Azure Storage features, including modern ZRS replication, blob tiering, lifecycle management, and advanced redundancy options. It also offers the most cost-effective pricing model for a wide range of workloads.
This FAQ addresses common questions about upgrading from GPv1 standard ZRS to GPv2. It covers upgrade procedures, billing considerations, feature differences, and guidance for selecting the right redundancy option. Use this resource to plan your upgrade and ensure a smooth transition before GPv1 standard ZRS retirement.
Important
Microsoft will retire accounts that use GPv1 standard ZRS on September 1, 2026. All affected accounts must be upgraded to GPv2 before this date to avoid service disruption.
See: Upgrade storage account general purpose v1 (GPv1) with ZRS redundancy migration overview
What is GPv1 standard ZRS storage?
GPv1 standard ZRS refers to legacy Standard_ZRS redundancy used with GPv1 accounts (account kind Storage). It predates modern ZRS and does not provide synchronous replication across three availability zones.
Can I still create a new account using ZRS standard redundancy?
No. Creation of new accounts using standard ZRS on GPv1 is blocked starting September 2025.
How does modern ZRS differ from GPv1 standard ZRS?
Modern ZRS on GPv2 replicates data synchronously across three availability zones in the same region, helping ensure high availability during zonal outages. GPv1 standard ZRS uses an older replication model that may require platform failover to access secondary copies.
Which redundancy options are available on GPv2 accounts?
General-purpose v2 supports:
- Local-redundant storage (LRS).
- Zone-redundant storage (ZRS).
- Geo-redundant storage (GRS).
- Read-access geo-redundant storage (RA-GRS).
- Geo-zone-redundant storage (GZRS).
- Read-access geo-zone-redundant storage (RA-GZRS).
Does GPv1 standard ZRS support blob tiering or lifecycle management?
No. GPv1 standard ZRS does not support per-blob tiering or lifecycle management policies.
How does pricing differ from GPv1 standard ZRS?
GPv2 introduces tier-based pricing and transaction meters. While some operations may cost more, GPv2 offers cost optimization via hot/cool/archive tiers and lifecycle rules.
Can I upgrade from GPv1 standard ZRS to GPv2 later? Will anything break?
Yes. You can upgrade in place via the Azure portal, CLI, or PowerShell. The upgrade is non-disruptive and keeps the same endpoints. Most workloads require no code changes.
Tip
Validate SDK versions, redundancy assumptions, and any automation that references account kind or legacy standard_ZRS semantics before upgrading production.
Will the upgrade require downtime?
No. The upgrade is online and does not interrupt data access.
Will there be any data loss?
No. The upgrade process preserves all data and metadata.
Will my existing application continue to work seamlessly after the upgrade?
In most cases, yes. API endpoints remain unchanged. Validate SDK compatibility and any hardcoded assumptions about pricing or redundancy.
What happens if I haven't upgraded by the retirement date?
Microsoft will automatically upgrade your account and your decision not to migrate an existing GPv1 account will be construed as consent for Microsoft to migrate the account on your behalf. Which means you risk billing misalignment. Data is preserved, but access could be temporarily impacted.
Warning
Auto-upgrade timing and outcomes can vary. Proactive upgrades let you choose redundancy, tiering, and feature configurations aligned to your workload.
Is the upgrade permanent?
Yes. Once upgraded to GPv2, you cannot revert to GPv1 standard ZRS.
Why is GPv1 standard ZRS being retired?
To standardize on GPv2 for resiliency, feature parity, and consistent pricing. Modern ZRS provides synchronous zone replication and integrates with advanced features such as Event Grid and Azure Data Lake Storage (hierarchical namespace).
What if my region doesn't support ZRS?
Your account will be upgraded to GPv2 with the closest available redundancy (for example, LRS or GRS). You can later migrate to a region that supports ZRS if needed.
How do I calculate the new billing amount?
Use the Azure pricing calculator and your current usage data to estimate costs under GPv2 pricing.
Calculator: https://azure.cn/pricing/calculator/
Blobs pricing: https://azure.cn/pricing/details/storage/blobs/
Can I enable geo-redundancy after upgrading?
Yes. GPv2 supports GRS, RA-GRS, GZRS, and RA-GZRS.
What if I need help with the upgrade process?
We provide documentation, Q&A forums, and support channels. If you have a support plan, create a support request in the Azure portal.