If you are a business owner and have explored cloud computing solutions, then you have likely heard of Microsoft Azure. However, you might not be sure what Microsoft Azure is, what it does, or, most importantly, how it can help you achieve your business goals.
If this sounds familiar, this guide is for you. Below, we provide a crash course on Microsoft Azure. We even show you how you can leverage this cutting-edge cloud computing solution to tap into your company’s true potential.
What Is Microsoft Azure?
Microsoft Azure is a public cloud platform managed by the well-known office software and operating system development company.
A “public cloud” is a set of cloud computing services that are made available to companies. This public cloud environment is created, maintained, and managed by a third-party entity. In the case of Azure, that entity is Microsoft.
Microsoft Azure is arguably the most comprehensive public cloud computing platform in existence. With Azure, businesses can:
- Store data
- Facilitate networking
- Leverage business-critical applications
- Scale new apps
These are just a few examples of what businesses like yours can accomplish with Microsoft Azure. This platform is so versatile because it offers access to multiple types of cloud computing solutions. These solutions include:
- Server-+36
- less resources
- Software as a service
- Platform as a service
- Infrastructure as a service
Put simply, Microsoft Azure is a one-stop shop for all of your cloud computing needs. Azure uses the hugely popular “pay as you go” pricing model. This means that you only pay for the resources and computing power you use during each monthly billing cycle. The pay-as-you-go model makes Microsoft Azure suitable for businesses of all sizes.
Why Choose Microsoft Azure over AWS?
When exploring public cloud computing solutions, you likely came across Amazon Web Services or AWS. While the AWS cloud computing platform has a strong industry reputation, it simply does not stack up during a head-to-head comparison with Azure.
Microsoft Azure offers benefits such as:
Cost Savings Opportunities
Companies transitioning to Microsoft Azure can take advantage of many cost savings opportunities. Cumulatively, these opportunities make Azure one-fifth of the cost of AWS.
For instance, Microsoft Azure allows you to transfer your existing SQL and Windows Server licenses when you migrate to Azure. This will reduce the rate that you pay for access to Azure.
Free Extended Security Updates
When you transition from either SQL Server 2008 or Windows Server, you can obtain three extra years of free security updates. These updates can save you hundreds of dollars.
Comprehensive Compliance Offerings
In recent years, several nations have adopted stringent data compliance and consumer protection laws. Prime examples include the General Data Protection Regulation and the California Consumer Privacy Act.
In light of these developments, it is vital that your business takes data compliance seriously. Microsoft Azure can enhance your compliance program as the platform has over 90 compliance certifications.
An Extensive Partner Network
Microsoft Azure boasts over 68,000 partners. Additionally, Microsoft Azure is the go-to public cloud computing solution for approximately 95% of Fortune 500 companies. Many organizations turn to Microsoft Azure because it is widely considered to be the best cloud computing platform on the market.
The Limitless Possibilities of Azure
As you can see, the possibilities are virtually limitless when you make the transition to Microsoft Azure. However, migrating your existing network to Azure can be a complex and challenging undertaking. Fortunately, you do not have to navigate this process alone.
If you want to ensure a seamless transition, you should consider partnering with an experienced managed services provider that specializes in Microsoft Azure cloud migrations. AngelCom IT Services is just such a partner. Whether you want to learn more about the benefits of Microsoft Azure or are ready to make the switch to this innovative cloud computing platform, we can help. Contact us today to get started.