Microsoft’s Azure has been around for over 10 years, although it was previously known as Windows Azure. It is a well-known service in the business world but many are still confused about what it actually is. Azure’s main aim is to help businesses manage effectively while meeting their organisational goals.
So What is Microsoft Azure?
Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing platform. It provides over 200 tools and services for businesses to use. The Azure platform is subscription-based on a monthly payment schedule. However, you only ever pay for the resources you used in the previous month.
Given the wide variety of services, apps and tools available on Azure, it’s difficult to narrow down its uses to a specific singular description. The reliability and security of Azure’s infrastructure means that many companies use its storage capabilities as a backup or disaster recovery site in case of an accident on their own premises.
Overview of Azures capabilities:
Microsoft’s Azure can be used for a vast amount of services, with over 20 categories. Here is a brief overview of a few of the clouds services.
- Storage – The cloud allows structured and unstructured data to be stored and easily located.
- Analytics – This service allows you to analyse data in many ways, for example, real-time analytics.
- Integration / Migration – Seamless integration with many Microsoft apps also abilities to connect private and public clouds.
- Security – Encryption, authority and other features can be put in place to secure assets and sensitive information.
- Management – Automation, scheduling, monitoring and more tools are available to help manage your account.
- Identity – This ensures only users with the correct authorisation can view and access certain specified data to protect sensitive information.
- Multi-functional – Azure provides solutions for all industries, through proven combinations of cloud products and services.
- Open Source Technology – Azure is not only for Windows. As it supports open source technology, you can run any application from any device.
- Accessibility – Access the cloud from any device, anywhere at any time.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) – All of the tools leverage AI to analyse images, scan text for positive or negative connotations, comprehend speech, create predictions based upon a data feed and more.
- Mobile – Easily build cloud applications for mobile devices and all the tasks associated.
All of the points stated above are just a small selection of the huge range of tools and services available from Azure. It might be more helpful to identify what requirements your own business needs, then determine the relevant services that will help to fulfill them.
Next Steps
Are you ready to embrace the awesome power of Azure and take your business to the next level? It’s time to call in the professionals. At Silver Limes, our Microsoft Azure consultants are fully versed in all aspects of this incredibly powerful cloud computing platform.
Get in touch with us today to arrange a friendly and informal chat about how we can help you. You can reach us via email at hello@silverlimes.co.uk or on the phone at 0116 319 4402. Take the first step towards business success today.
