Microsoft Azure, formerly known as Windows Azure, is Microsoft’s public business cloud computing platform.

Azure provides a range of cloud services which users can pick and choose from. Services include remotely hosted and managed versions of proprietary Microsoft technologies, and open technologies, such as Linux.

If you’re looking to avoid costly capital outlays for new servers and the high overhead of managing your on-premises infrastructure, moving to Azure could be a good option.

What can you do with Azure?

Azure provides access to over 100 services from building and testing, to deploying and managing applications and services.

Everything within Azure is hosted in several secure Microsoft data centres in 42 regions around the world.

What are the benefits of using Azure?

1. Cost saving – virtualisation eliminates the need for expensive hardware. Azure has no-upfront charges and its billing structure is based on usage (per minute) and the computing demands of the service purchased.
2. Reliability – Microsoft guarantee at least 99.95% uptime.
3. Scalability – capacity is available on demand and can be scaled up or down instantly.
4. Data backup – an array of backup procedures ensures copies of data stored are protected and duplicates are available for recovery.
5. Data security – physical and digital security is extremely tight. Azure provides enterprise-level security that would be unavailable to all but the very largest enterprise corporations.

How do you use Azure?

While anyone can get started with a free Azure account from Azure’s website most businesses will require a more complex setup. We recommend purchasing through your IT support provider who will ensure your Azure is set up correctly and that you are not paying for facilities you don’t need.

If you’re considering Microsoft Azure for your business, please give us a call on 01392 207194 and we can advise you.