---
title: Azure (Microsoft Azure)
type: entity
tags: [Cloud, Provider, Public-Cloud]
sources: [cloud-operating-model-key-strategies-and-best-practices]
---

# Azure (Microsoft Azure)

**Microsoft Azure** is a cloud computing platform operated by Microsoft, providing a broad range of services for application and workload hosting.

## Overview

Azure is one of the three major public cloud providers, particularly strong in enterprise environments with Microsoft ecosystem integration.

## Key Services Referenced

| Category | Services |
|----------|----------|
| Compute | Virtual Machines, Azure Functions |
| Storage | Blob Storage, Azure Files |
| Database | Azure SQL, Cosmos DB |
| AI/ML | Azure AI, Azure OpenAI Service |
| Analytics | Synapse, Databricks |
| Enterprise | Active Directory, Microsoft 365 integration |

## Multi-Cloud Context

Azure is commonly used alongside AWS and Google Cloud in multi-cloud strategies:
- **Enterprise workloads** — Strong Windows Server and SQL Server integration
- **AI services** — Azure OpenAI Service for enterprise AI applications
- **Hybrid cloud** — Deep integration with on-premises Windows environments

## Related Concepts

- [[Multi-Cloud-Strategy]] — Azure as one of multiple providers
- [[Cloud-Native]] — Building on Azure-native services
- [[FinOps]] — Managing Azure costs

## Sources

- [[sources/how-can-a-multi-cloud-strategy-transform-your-business-roi.md]]