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Azure (Microsoft Azure)

Microsoft Azure is a public cloud computing platform that provides infrastructure, platform, and software services for building, deploying, and managing applications.

What is Microsoft Azure?

Microsoft Azure is a public cloud platform offering a broad set of services including compute, storage, networking, databases, identity, security, and analytics. Azure enables organizations to run workloads in the cloud, on-premises, or in hybrid environments. Azure is one of the world's leading cloud platforms, alongside AWS and Google Cloud.

Why Azure matters

Azure is important because it:

  • Supports IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS service models
  • Enables hybrid and multi-cloud architectures
  • Integrates natively with Microsoft 365 and Entra ID
  • Scales globally with high availability
  • Provides enterprise-grade security and compliance

It is widely adopted by enterprises, governments, and MSPs.

Azure service models

Azure supports all major cloud service layers:

  • IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) - Virtual machines, storage, and virtual networks
  • PaaS (Platform as a Service) - Managed platforms for apps, databases, and APIs
  • SaaS (Software as a Service) - Fully managed applications delivered over the internet

This flexibility allows organizations to choose the right abstraction level.

Core Azure services

Common Azure services include:

  • Virtual Machines and Scale Sets
  • Virtual Networks and Load Balancers
  • Blob, File, and Disk Storage
  • Azure SQL and managed databases
  • Identity and access management
  • Security and monitoring services

Services are consumed on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Azure and hybrid cloud

Azure is particularly strong in hybrid scenarios:

  • Integration with on-prem Active Directory
  • Hybrid identity and device management
  • Workloads spanning on-prem and cloud
  • Consistent management and security tooling

Hybrid capability is a key Azure differentiator.

Azure and security

From a security perspective, Azure provides:

  • Identity-based access control
  • Network segmentation and firewalling
  • Encryption at rest and in transit
  • Compliance certifications and audits
  • Native security monitoring and threat detection

Azure security follows a shared responsibility model.

Azure in enterprise environments

Organizations use Azure to:

  • Migrate legacy applications
  • Build cloud-native services
  • Enable remote work and Modern Workplace
  • Implement disaster recovery and backup
  • Support DevOps and automation workflows

Azure is often the foundation of digital transformation initiatives.

Azure vs other cloud platforms

While all major cloud providers are capable:

  • Azure excels in Microsoft ecosystem integration
  • Strong hybrid and identity features
  • Broad enterprise compliance coverage
  • Deep tooling for IT admins and developers

Platform choice depends on workload and strategy.

Common misconceptions

  • "Azure is only for Windows workloads"
  • "Azure replaces on-premises IT entirely"
  • "Azure security is automatic and complete"
  • "Azure is only for large enterprises"