Released in February of 2010 to quickly become one of the most crucial cloud computing systems used by businesses and other entities the world over, Microsoft Azure is a fantastic platform featuring more than 200 products, and designed to basically make your life a little bit easier.
Much like Google Cloud, Amazon Web, and the numerous other types of Cloud computing services out there, Azure is a helpful platform that is used by companies who, for example, lack the space and finances for a server. Instead of making a plan to bring in an expensive server, or to opt for a less effective and far less secure Cloud service, businesses can turn to Azure Cloud Computing for their data storage and data access needs.
Some of the Microsoft Azure features function through the use of virtual machines, which are created to be instantly accessible and to save on costs. There are a variety of types of virtual machines, and it is important that when a business is making the decision to move their workload over to Azure that they select or create the right machine for their needs.
About Virtual Machines
Virtual machines can be created by Linux or Windows operating systems and these machines can include up to 416 vCPUs and 12 TB of memory. Other features include up to 3.7 million local storage IOPS per VM, 30 Gbps Ethernet and 200 Gbps Infiniband.
By using virtual machines, you will be able to enjoy a number of benefits that go beyond just having a huge amount of virtual space for your data. Other benefits that users will be able to experience include:
- Low cost billing. The service is based on a pay-as-you-go type of service, so you will only be charged for what you use. Alternatively, there are various subscription options available.
- Easy scalability. As your business grows so can your virtual machine through the use of the Azure Virtual Machine Scale Sets. Should you need to upscale, a new virtual machine can be implemented within minutes.
- Data is protected. Virtual machines are designed to encrypt data and protect it from threats. The system is setup in such a way that it is industry compliant.
- Linux or Windows. The virtual machine setup works efficiently on both operating systems.
The entire Azure system as well as the accompanying virtual machines are consistently updated to ensure smooth running and often new features are also added, giving those who use the system more to work with.
How can Microsoft Azure assist your business?
There are a variety of ways that Azure can transform your business, and help you out with day to day tasks:
- Both backups and the recovery of data is made simple as Azure keeps full data backups. Should you need to access or install a backup, the process requires just a few clicks. This is a huge timesaver and considering the scope and amount of data it will store, it is an incredibly cost-effective solution.
- You and your staff can work from anywhere. Azure is a Cloud system which instantly gives those who use it the means to work from wherever they want or need to.
- Collaborate with ease. Teams who need to share documents for work purposes can work together seamlessly as they are able to access their shared files from anywhere, and at any time.
- Free services. If you use Azure for more than 12 months you will gain access to an additional 55 services, including virtual machines for Linux, which will stay free forever while still only paying for what you use.
There is also the option of building your own virtual machines, something that many businesses might prefer to do, as this will give them more control when it comes to structuring a system that is customised just for the company.
For more information about how Microsoft Azure and its advanced virtual machines can help your business, you can contact 24/7 IT Services today. We offer our clients a versatile and highly effective Cloud Computing service.
