Learn about how NBA used Azure to deliver innovative experiences to fans to keep them engaged and assist referees to make consistent calls across all games.
Microsoft Azure: A cheat sheet
Johnny Thai • August 24, 2023
This comprehensive guide about Microsoft Azure includes common use cases, resource lists and what to know before adopting the cloud computing platform.
In today's dynamic business landscape, cloud computing has emerged as a game-changer, and Microsoft Azure stands at the forefront of this transformation. Azure offers a wide array of services and solutions that empower organizations to scale, innovate, and optimize their operations. In this blog, we delve into the world of Microsoft Azure, its significance, impact, release history, and how to get started with this cutting-edge cloud computing platform.
We will cover the following in this post:
- What is Microsoft Azure?
- When Was Microsoft Azure Released?
- Why Does Microsoft Azure Matter?
- Who Does Microsoft Azure Affect?
- Why Should You Migrate to Microsoft Azure?
- Explore Best Business Practices for Transitioning to Azure
- Common Use Cases of Microsoft Azure
- What to Know Before Adopting Azure
- Technical Limitations and Considerations
- How Do I get Microsoft Azure?
- Contact Me to Discuss About Azure
What is Microsoft Azure?
Microsoft Azure is a comprehensive cloud computing platform provided by Microsoft. It offers an extensive range of services, including virtual machines, web applications, data storage, analytics, artificial intelligence, and more. Azure enables businesses to build, deploy, and manage applications and services using Microsoft's globally distributed network of data centers. This cloud platform provides the flexibility, scalability, and agility required to thrive in today's competitive digital landscape.
When Was Microsoft Azure Released?
Microsoft Azure was introduced in 2008 as a response to Amazon EC2 and Google App Engine. It has evolved through different stages with initially named as Windows Azure as it began with limited services for ASP.NET web apps and worker roles. Over time, it added SQL Azure, diversified programming languages, and services like content delivery networks.
The second generation embraced open-source software (OSS) and shifted to Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) for more control. The name changed to Microsoft Azure, focusing on Linux support and IaaS capabilities.
The third era emphasized big data, analytics, and IoT. Microsoft partnered with Hortonworks, launched Azure Data Lake, and integrated IoT capabilities.
In the fourth phase, Microsoft became a cloud leader by venturing into AI and machine learning. Azure ML Studio enabled training models. Partnerships with Intel, NVIDIA, and Qualcomm optimised AI for Azure IoT Edge.
Today, Azure Arc manages diverse workloads from one control point. With over 600 services, Microsoft Azure blends SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS, shaping a customer-friendly cloud service platform.
Why Does Microsoft Azure Matter?
The adoption of Microsoft Azure enables businesses to leverage cloud technology to enhance operations, improve efficiency, and drive innovation, while also benefiting from the expertise and resources of one of the world's leading technology companies.
Who Does Microsoft Azure Affect?
Businesses that are currently operating on Microsoft Windows Server and Active Directory will discover that transitioning to Azure offers an appealing upgrade. Microsoft Azure grants businesses access to globally distributed datacenter hardware, licenses, and support, accompanied by the cost advantage of a diminished financial burden. This is because there is no need to allocate expenses related to deploying on-premises hardware or leasing dedicated servers in a conventional datacentre.
Businesses
Azure benefits businesses of all sizes by providing the tools needed to innovate, scale, and transform their operations.
Developers
Azure offers a rich set of tools for application development, testing, and deployment, facilitating efficient DevOps practices.
IT Professionals
Azure simplifies infrastructure management, allowing IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives rather than routine maintenance.
Data Scientists
Azure's AI and machine learning capabilities empower data scientists to build and deploy advanced models for predictive analysis.
Why Should You Migrate to Microsoft Azure?
Scalability and Flexibility
Azure allows businesses to scale resources up or down based on demand, enabling cost-effective operations and optimal performance.
Learn about Proctor and Gamble's transition of their essential assets from on-premises servers to the cloud. This move allowed factories to access mission-critical data without compromising speed, all while acquiring the cloud's benefits of scalability, agility, and security.
Cost Efficiency
Azure reduces upfront infrastructure costs and offers cost-effective solutions tailored to each business’ needs with pay for what you need as pay as you go pricing.
Learn about how Fujitsu increased efficiency and reduced costs by migrating on-premise datacentres to Azure and modernising with a cloud-first strategy.
"By migrating to Azure, we have more scalability, flexibility, and efficiency, along with reduced upgrade-related costs for our online presence, than when we kept it in on-premises datacentres" - Christian Walter: Head of Web and Collaboration Fujistu
Global Reach
Azure has data centers distributed around the world, allowing organisations to deploy applications and services closer to their users, reducing latency and improving performance.
Security and Compliance
Azure provides a comprehensive set of security features, including encryption, identity and access management, and compliance certifications. This helps businesses meet regulatory requirements and secure their data.
Hybrid Capabilities
Azure supports hybrid scenarios, enabling organisations to integrate on-premises infrastructure with cloud resources seamlessly. This is particularly useful for businesses gradually transitioning to the cloud.
Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity
Azure offers robust backup and disaster recovery solutions, ensuring data and applications are protected and can be quickly restored in case of outages or data loss.
DevOps Integration
Azure DevOps services and tools enable businesses to automate application development, testing, and deployment processes, leading to faster and more reliable releases.
Learn about how Fujitsu increased efficiency and reduced costs by migrating on-premise datacentres to Azure and modernising with a cloud-first strategy.
"With Azure DevOps, we can do parallel development, which makes us faster and more flexible in updating our online presence." - Christian Walter: Head of Web and Collaboration Fujistu
AI and Analytics
Azure offers a range of AI and analytics services, allowing businesses to gain insights from their data, make informed decisions, and add AI capabilities to their applications.
Elasticity
Azure's elasticity allows businesses to easily adjust resources based on traffic spikes or seasonal variations, ensuring optimal performance during peak times
Innovation
Azure provides a platform for experimentation and innovation, allowing businesses to quickly prototype and test new ideas without the need for significant upfront investments.
Collaboration and Productivity
Azure's integration with Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365) facilitates collaboration and productivity through seamless access to tools like SharePoint, Teams, and OneDrive.
Learn about how South Australian City of Marion adopted Microsoft Purview Records Management and Azure to digital transform the way traditional government records are managed. According to Leader Karlheins Sohl at City of Marion, the cloud transformation signifies both a cultural and technological change. This shift involves people becoming more involved in generating and managing information and being empowered to utilise updated record and information services effectively.
Industry-Specific Solutions
Azure offers industry-specific solutions and templates that cater to the unique needs of various sectors, such as healthcare, finance, retail, and more.
Microsoft Azure for Financial Services >
Microsoft Azure for Healthcare >
Microsoft Azure for Manufacturing >
Microsoft Azure for Retail >
Microsoft Azure for Sustainability >
Explore Best Business Practices for Transitioning to Azure
Get ready to unlock the full potential of your IT investments, both in the short and long term. Embrace Azure IaaS and open up exciting avenues for innovation through incredibly secure, reliable, and flexible cloud services. Give your IT a modern makeover with top-notch cloud infrastructure, and make your app migration journey smooth and confident.
Common Use Cases of Microsoft Azure
Analytics and Big Data
Azure provides services like Azure HDInsight, Data Lake Analytics, and Azure Synapse Analytics (formerly SQL Data Warehouse) for processing and analyzing large datasets.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
Azure offers AI services such as Azure Cognitive Services and Azure Machine Learning for adding AI capabilities to applications.
Data Storage and Databases
Azure offers various storage options, including Blob storage, Azure SQL Database, Cosmos DB (NoSQL), and more. These services are suitable for storing and managing structured and unstructured data.
DevOps and Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)
Azure DevOps provides tools for building, testing, and deploying applications efficiently.
Hybrid Cloud Solutions
Azure supports hybrid scenarios, allowing you to connect on-premises infrastructure with cloud resources, providing greater flexibility and data management options.
Internet of Things (IoT)
Azure IoT Suite allows you to connect, monitor, and manage IoT devices and process the data they generate.
Web Applications
Azure's Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) offerings like Azure App Service allow you to deploy and manage web applications without managing the underlying infrastructure. It's suitable for building and hosting websites, APIs, and mobile backends.
Virtual Machines (VMs)
Azure provides a scalable and flexible infrastructure for running virtual machines. This is commonly used for hosting applications, development environments, and running Windows or Linux-based workloads.
What to Know Before Adopting Azure
Assessment
Evaluate your existing infrastructure and applications to determine which workloads are suitable for migration to Azure.
Book a FREE Azure Express Solution Assessment with Konverge
It is an economic assessment performed against your on-premises Windows Server and/or Linux* server workloads, delivered at no cost performed by Microsoft specialist consultants.
An Azure Express Solution Assessment provides meaningful insights that can help your business:
- Understand the costs associated with running your server workloads in Azure (assess costs for VM Compute, Managed Disk, Azure Backup, ASR, SQL MI, AVS, and various other Azure services);
- Define and develop a business case;
- Determine a migration strategy and document a migration plan; and
- Plan and prepare next steps.
Cost Management
Understand Azure's pricing model, monitor resource usage, and consider utilizing tools like Azure Cost Management for cost optimization.
Training and Skill Development
Ensure your team has the necessary skills to manage and operate Azure resources effectively. Microsoft offers extensive training resources.
Migration Strategy
Plan your migration carefully, considering factors like data transfer, application compatibility, and potential downtime.
Security and Compliance
Implement best practices for securing your applications and data, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
Backup and Disaster Recovery
Implement proper backup and disaster recovery strategies to protect your data and applications from unexpected failures.
Scalability
Leverage Azure's scalability to handle fluctuating workloads efficiently.
Monitoring and Management
Utilise Azure's monitoring and management tools to gain insights into your applications' performance and health.
Support
Understand the available support options from Microsoft and consider what level of support you might need. At Konverge we offer 24/7 support. Speak with us about how we can assist your business needs today.
Technical Limitations and Considerations
Data Transfer Costs
Transferring data in and out of Azure can incur costs. Understanding the pricing model is crucial to avoid unexpected expenses.
Downtime and SLAs
While Azure offers high availability, no cloud service can guarantee 100% uptime. Understanding Azure's Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for different services is essential.
Complexity
Azure's vast array of services can lead to complexity in managing resources. Proper planning and governance are necessary to avoid over provisioning or inefficient resource usage.
Latency
While Azure's global data center presence reduces latency, it's important to consider the location of your data center relative to your users to minimize delays.
Security and Compliance
While Azure provides strong security measures, the responsibility for securing applications and data also lies with the user. Compliance requirements vary by industry and region.
Vendor Lock-In
Migrating applications and data from Azure to another cloud provider or on-premises environment might be challenging due to potential vendor-specific dependencies.
How Do I Get Microsoft Azure?
Microsoft has launched a hub platform for the startup ecosystem and founders in Australia and New Zealand. This includes an expansion of programs aimed at meeting the requirements of regional startups in various development stages. The new Microsoft platform will provide support to founders in Australia and New Zealand throughout their startup journey, offering access to benefits exceeding US$300,000. These benefits encompass credits, access to technology tools and resources needed to build and run business.
Microsoft has provided student grants with USD $100 of Azure credit for university or school students to be used within 12 months, with access to free products. See the Microsoft website for terms and conditions around eligibility.
Get started with Azure and find out what you can do with Azure cloud computing services. Get USD $200 Azure credit to explore for 30 days.
Discuss your business needs with an Azure expert at Konverge, and find out how you can leverage our knowledge, skills and Infrastructure as a Service to get you started with Azure today.
Contact me to discuss about Azure
Microsoft Azure - not just a cloud platform - a catalyst for innovation and transformation.
From its flexibility and security to its impact on various stakeholders, Azure empowers businesses to navigate the digital age successfully. As technology continues to evolve, embracing Azure can position businesses for long-term success in a rapidly changing world.
Discover how Konverge Australia helps enterprise IT leaders simplify complex infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity and unlock ROI with flexible, proven integration and managed services.
Introduction
Explore Gartner’s 2025 Threat Landscape and learn how Konverge Australia can help you adapt your cybersecurity strategy to face the volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity of today’s digital world.
Why does technology increase day by day? Backed by research and real vendor examples, this guide helps tech leaders stay ahead with practical insights.
Partner with Konverge Australia for secure, practical tech solutions built for in-house IT teams. Cybersecurity, infrastructure, cloud, and managed services made easier.
Konverge provided comprehensive assistance, including assessing existing device management policies, tailoring Intune subscriptions to meet MCS's unique needs, and ensuring smooth integration through customised user profiles and application deployment.
Simplify cloud security with Palo Alto Prisma Access and Konverge Australia. Secure your hybrid workforce with cloud-delivered security, ZTNA, and SASE solutions.
Discover Microsoft Purview with Konverge—unified data governance, compliance, and risk management for secure, agile, and efficient IT operations.
Make tech work better for your school. Discover education technology that simplifies IT, supports teachers, and improves student outcomes.
Secure hybrid IT with HPE GreenLake: isolated private cloud & block storage for regulated organisations, deployed and supported by Konverge.
Konverge brings HP computers, printers, monitors & accessories together with local configuration, seamless deployment, and trusted support.
Optimise your network with HPE Aruba Networking Central—AI‑powered, flexible deployment options from cloud to air‑gapped, tailored by Konverge.
Streamline your IT with HPE server and storage solutions for AI and enterprise—accelerated, secure, and energy‑efficient, delivered with Konverge’s expert support.
Discover how Konverge showcased tailored AI, Intune, SharePoint & HPE server solutions for schools at the 2025 AISNSW ICT Conference in Sydney.
Save time and batch rename files using this free commercial grade application by Adobe.
Learn how Konverge applies bank-level cybersecurity—multi-layered defence, compliance, and 24/7 monitoring—to protect your business.
Discover that using a VPN in Australia is completely legal—learn how it enhances privacy, security, and access, while noting limits on illicit activities.
Learn how Australian organisations can navigate cyber breach reporting under the NDB Scheme—identifying breaches, assessing risk, and notifying the OAIC promptly.
Palo Alto Networks' ML-Powered PA-400 Series next generation firewall (NGFW) and why you should request for a demo to see how it works for your organisation.
ESG Whitepaper summary how businesses can secure their networks against advanced attacks and embrace a proactive, scalable approach to network security. Perfect for IT professionals, cybersecurity enthusiasts, and decision-makers seeking actionable insights.
The world’s first ML-Powered Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) will help you stop zero-day threats in zero time with Nebula, the 10.2 Release of Palo Alto's Industry-Leading PAN-OS.
What if Keanu Reeves were protecting your network? Keanu Reeves, the ultimate guardian of truth and justice, now standing as the face of Precision AI™ by Palo Alto Networks. Imagine his calm yet commanding voice saying, "In a world where AI powers both heroes and villains, only the most precise intelligence can defend your digital universe."
Comparison between Palo Alto Networks NGFW and Cisco Secure Firewall (Firepower). Learn about key features, strengths, and weaknesses of each firewall solution to make an informed cybersecurity choice.
Investing in Prisma ensures that businesses can protect their data, applications, and users while enabling innovation and growth. For organisations in Australia, Prisma aligns seamlessly with national cybersecurity frameworks, making it an essential investment for long-term resilience and regulatory compliance.
This guide explores the best practices for securing cloud environments, integrating insights from trusted Australian resources and the Australian Government’s Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), alongside global perspectives.
Cyber security training for employees is not just a one-time event but an ongoing process. It helps staff understand the nature of cyber threats and the importance of protecting company data. Training programs should address various aspects of cyber security, including recognising phishing emails, creating strong passwords, and understanding the protocols for reporting security incidents.
Investing in managed IT security services is not just a smart business decision—it's essential for maintaining the integrity and security of your company's data and operations. With the right MSSP like Konverge by your side, you can confidently navigate the digital landscape and stay one step ahead of cyber threats.
Staying relevant in this digital landscape means embracing the latest technology trends that offer real business value. At Konverge, we are committed to helping businesses unlock new opportunities by leveraging the latest tech solutions. Here’s a look at the most impactful trends for 2024 and how Konverge can help businesses harness them effectively.
What is Adobe Creative Cloud Edition 4? Download the comparison guide to find out. Have more questions? Contact us today to learn more.
Transform Your Team's Creative Power with Adobe Creative Cloud Enterprise Edition 4!
Unlock next-level productivity and creativity with powerful generative AI, unlimited Adobe Stock access, and seamless collaboration tools—all while keeping your assets secure. Whether you're designing, editing, or collaborating, Adobe's Enterprise Edition 4 has everything your team needs to scale their creative potential.
Protect your business with Konverge’s tailored cyber security services in Australia—risk assessments, incident response, MDR, training, compliance & more.
Discover how Managed SOC services provide 24/7 threat monitoring, rapid response, and expert security to protect your business from cyber attacks.
If you’re looking for a partner to help address end-to-end cyber risk at your organization, we encourage you to experience The Arctic Wolf Security Journey. Throughout your Journey, Arctic Wolf works with you to holistically address cyber risk by equipping you with the tools and expertise to assess, mitigate, and transfer your cyber risk – and drive security outcomes.
What is a data risk assessment? Find out more and if you qualify for this offer today.
Discover how Konverge earned the prestigious Arctic Wolf Rising Star Award 2024—highlighting our cybersecurity excellence and trusted partnership.
To fully meet CPG 235 requirements, Konverge recommends mapping lineage diagrams for regulated business processes. Forcepoint's automated data lineage identifies potential security gaps and optimises data handling for both efficiency and compliance.
Struggling to deploy IT infrastructure? APC Micro Data Centers offer a pre-configured, all-in-one solution.
Konverge is a Microsoft 365 expert and has helped many Australian businesses with their technology needs. Let us assist you with your journey into Microsoft 's latest game changer in operational efficiencies today.
Download this insightful whitepaper DLP implementation guide for a look at the latest data-breach trends: A practical look at current trends and how to be proactive in stopping data breaches. Five-phase framework: Learn the five steps to a successful DLP implementation through a risk-adaptive approach. Best practices to ensure success: Ways to attain measurable and practical results to achieve seamless execution. Assessing DLP vendors: Explaining the importance and benefits of dissecting the vendor's methodology.
What is CASB? The pillars of CASBs. Threat protection in Australia. CASB solutions and legislation surrounding Australian entities in cybersecurity.
Unlock the power of data with CPG 235 Managing Data Risk. This guide provides expert insights on data governance, risk management, and quality for Australian banks. Subscribe for updates and enhance your data practices today.
Experience the world’s first deep learning data platform. With over 10 exabytes of data under
management, VAST enables companies like Disney, Zoom, NASA, G42, and others to embrace a
future where the boundaries of what’s possible are constantly redefined.
We've mapped out how to practically implement eight essential mitigation strategies from the Strategies to Mitigate Cyber Security Incidents.
More than half of security leaders describe data visibility as a major concern. Some 60% said they had identified new security gaps. Nearly six in 10 organisations are struggling with employee-related cyber threats in the months since the pandemic began, with 48% reported phishing attacks in the first three months of the pandemic.
Explore how to manage data risk and be APRA CPG 235 compliant as increased sophisticated threats rise with the use of malicious generative AI tools for cyberattacks on Australian businesses. Read about Forcepoint ONE and how it plays an important role in your digital data protection.
We've boosted Tactix's digital infrastructure with secure internet and network setup, implemented top-tier firewall security, and ensured seamless connectivity. Our cabling expertise has streamlined efficiency, while a state-of-the-art wireless network guarantees swift and reliable connections throughout their workspace. Tactix's meeting rooms are now fully equipped for productive collaborations, and every desk boasts docking monitor solutions, elevating productivity and facilitating seamless teamwork.
Small business networks are essential for entrepreneurs looking to optimise productivity, enhance security, and support remote workforces. Centralising your network, understanding its components, and implementing the right storage solutions are crucial steps in this journey. With expert guidance, you can build a network infrastructure that propels your small business toward success in the digital age.
How do you get access to Microsoft Copilot? How do you download Microsoft 365 Copilot? What is Microsoft Security Copilot? Is Microsoft Copilot available to everyone yet?
M365 Migration Services, Cloud Assessment and Migration Services, Intune Deployment and Migration Services, Microsoft 365 Support Services, Workplace as a Service, Centralised Servicedesk Services, Microsoft MDR and SOC Services, Managed Endpoint Services, Azure Managed Cloud Services, Intune Managed Services, AVD Deployment and Managed Services, Remote Infrastructure Managed Services, Business in a Laptop.
The worst Dark Data offenders are Germany, Canada, and Australia with respectively 66%, 64%, and 62% of their stored data defined as dark. Next year, organisations will create 39% more data than this year. The question is: Will your budget grow 39% too?
At Konverge, we take pride in turning challenges into opportunities. We had the privilege of assisting Petstock Group in achieving their vision for seamless connectivity throughout their warehouse, regardless of varying rack heights. We collaborated with Cisco Meraki to provide a cutting-edge solution with competitive pricing, backed by Cisco financing, ensuring a smooth delivery and setup process.
