So What is Microsoft Azure used for?
Azure is a cloud computing service created by Microsoft. Developers and IT support London professionals and managed IT services providers use it for building, testing, deploying, and managing applications through a global network of data centers. gives you the freedom to build and deploy wherever you want, using the tools and frameworks of your choice.
When was Microsoft Azure Launched?
Microsoft Azure was first introduced in 2008 as a cloud computing service called Windows Azure. However, Microsoft Azure’s commercial launch was in 2010, so it’s been around a good 10+ years.
What is Microsoft Azure used for? & What are the Benefits?
- Speed. Microsoft Azure is fast. Really, really fast. You can see this in its deployment, operation, and scalability. An on-premises server simply can’t keep up.
- Agility. You can test, feedback, and retry applications while you’re developing them. This gives you the freedom to try out new technologies all the time. If you think something’s not for you, you can stop using it without setting up new infrastructures or throwing away cash.
- Security. Microsoft is an industry leader when it comes to data protection. Azure’s single sign-on service helps keep passwords secure, which is handy if you’ve got a lot of sensitive data.
- Compliance. This is another area where Microsoft has done the hard work for you. Azure has more compliance certificates than any other cloud provider and gives you control of your data.
- Flexible costs. With Azure, you only pay for the services you want to use. If you need more, you can spend more. If you need less, you can spend less. You can get rid of under-used services without changing any infrastructure.
- Disaster recovery. Azure has regional and global disaster recovery options. This might not be at front of your mind when you start using it, but reassurance is always a good feeling to have.
- Remote deployment. With tools like Azure Stack, you can deploy applications from wherever you are.
What Is a Microsoft Azure Function App?
A Microsoft Azure Function App is a serverless compute service that enables developers to run small pieces of code, or “functions,” in response to events, without managing infrastructure.
These apps are ideal for automating workflows, processing data streams, and integrating services. Function Apps support multiple programming languages and scale automatically, making them a cost-effective solution for event-driven applications
What Is Microsoft Azure DevOps?
Microsoft Azure DevOps is a comprehensive suite of development tools that supports the entire software lifecycle, from planning and coding to testing and deployment.
It includes services like Azure Boards for project tracking, Azure Repos for version control, and Azure Pipelines for CI/CD automation.
Azure DevOps fosters collaboration across teams and streamlines delivery of high-quality software
What Is Microsoft Azure Fundamentals?
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals refers to the foundational knowledge required to understand cloud computing and Azure services.
It’s often associated with the AZ-900 certification, which covers core concepts like networking, storage, compute, and security in Azure.
This entry-level certification is ideal for beginners and professionals looking to validate their understanding of cloud principles
What Is Microsoft Azure Cloud?
Microsoft Azure Cloud is a global cloud computing platform offering Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS).
It enables businesses to build, deploy, and manage applications across a network of Microsoft-managed data centers.
Azure supports a wide range of services including AI, analytics, storage, and virtual machines, making it a versatile solution for digital transformation
What Is Microsoft Azure AI?
Microsoft Azure AI is a suite of artificial intelligence services and tools that allow developers to build intelligent applications.
It includes prebuilt APIs for vision, speech, language, and decision-making, as well as advanced machine learning capabilities.
Azure AI empowers businesses to automate tasks, gain insights from data, and enhance user experiences with conversational agents and predictive models
What Is Microsoft Azure Data Studio?
Microsoft Azure Data Studio is a cross-platform database management tool designed for data professionals.
It offers a modern interface for writing SQL queries, managing servers, and visualizing data.
Although Azure Data Studio is being retired in 2026, it remains a popular choice for managing Azure SQL and other databases due to its extensibility and user-friendly design
What Is Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop?
Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) is a cloud-based desktop virtualization service that enables secure remote access to Windows desktops and applications.
It supports both single and multi-session environments, making it ideal for hybrid work setups.
AVD allows organisations to centralize desktop management, reduce hardware costs, and ensure compliance across distributed teams
What Is Microsoft Azure CLI?
The Microsoft Azure Command-Line Interface (CLI) is a cross-platform tool that allows users to manage Azure resources directly from the terminal.
It supports scripting and automation, making it ideal for developers and IT professionals who prefer command-line workflows.
Azure CLI can be used locally or via Azure Cloud Shell, offering flexibility and control over cloud operations
Microsoft Azure Competition
Microsoft Azure is one of a handful of major public cloud service providers operating on a mass global scale. Other major providers include Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Amazon Web Services (AWS), and IBM.
How Azure Pricing Works?
Like a majority of other public cloud providers. Microsoft Azure pricing structure is on a competitive pay as you go basis, simply charging based on usage of its services.
Don’t be caught out, if a single application you may run in the cloud, involves multiple Azure services, you might find yourself paying for multiple pricing tiers.
Given the multitude of factors involved in cloud service pricing and finding ways to reduce costs. It’s honestly best to consult a Microsoft Azure expert in this case as some discounts can be applied.
The best way to evaluate the total monthly costs is to bring us on board so we can constantly help monitor, visualise and optimize your business cloud spending.
What is Microsoft Azure Certification?
Microsoft Azure Certification validates an individual’s expertise in using Azure’s cloud services to build, manage, and deploy solutions.
These certifications range from foundational to expert levels, covering roles like cloud administrator, developer, security engineer, and solutions architect.
Earning an Azure certification not only demonstrates technical proficiency but also enhances career prospects by aligning with industry-recognized standards.
For businesses, certified professionals ensure optimal use of Azure’s capabilities, driving innovation and efficiency in cloud-based operations.
So, What’s next?
Considering Microsoft Azure for your organization? Let us help with your decision-making process. Take a look at our Azure services, or by getting in touch directly to discuss your individual business needs.
With over 15 years at Speedster IT, I’ve built a career around helping businesses navigate the evolving world of technology. I publish all the content for the IT Support London Blog and Cyber Security Blog, where I share practical insights on infrastructure upgrades, cybersecurity trends, and smart IT strategies for growing companies.
