About Microsoft Azure
Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing platform that offers servers, databases, storage, networking and AI services. Businesses use it to run applications, store data and build new products.
What it does
Azure lets you create virtual machines, containers, databases and AI services on demand, and pay for what you use. You manage resources through a web portal, a command line tool or an API. The platform includes security, monitoring and governance features for teams that run many services at once.
Key features
- Virtual machines, containers and app hosting
- Managed databases and data analytics
- AI and machine learning services
- Monitoring, security and access controls
- Hybrid options that connect to on-premises systems
Who it's for
Enterprises, software developers and IT teams that already use Microsoft products or need a large set of cloud services. Smaller teams can start with a free account and grow as their needs change.
Pricing and good to know
Azure offers free services and a trial account with credit, and most paid services are billed by usage. Costs can rise quickly without budgets and alerts, so set those up early. Regions, compliance options and service availability vary, so check the details for your location and workload before you choose a design.
Highlights
- Run virtual machines and containers
- Use managed databases and analytics
- Build with AI and machine learning services
- Set budgets, alerts and access controls
