Azure is a cloud computing platform created by Microsoft for the use of a public cloud for various applications. This platform allows users to build and maintain applications through the use of Microsoft’s global network of databases. A variety of tools and services are provided to allow diverse methods of application creation and deployment; of course, these are all built to work with existing IT systems. The integration involved with the platform certainly makes it useful for many businesses out there that heavily rely on computer systems. However, just how useful it is for cloud computing–and who will rely on such things–is a big question for people considering such a platform.
Target Market
Windows Azure certainly sounds like a good investment for businesses wanting to move into the cloud, but what kind of business will get the most use out of it? Cloud computing is an interesting prospect for many people because of invisible, broad infrastructure provided by key players of the idea. Microsoft, of course, has a strong interest in bringing in large collections of datacenters to the people who need them. Companies that rely heavily on data figures, such as travel companies and other customer focused services, will see that Azure will provide the infrastructure and applications needed to compile their data. Of course, technologically focused companies that rely on wide distributions of software for its employees will find cloud tools useful. In short, the Azure platform is good for a wide range of people who are interested in creating useful applications with the cloud for simple integration.
Pros of Azure
The benefit that stands out to people the most is that it “lets you build and operate massive applications without setting up your own hardware”. Because it is a Windows product, Azure works well with all the development tools Microsoft offers. Users that rely on many Windows applications and kits will find that this platform makes a great addition to the tools they already have. In addition, “Azure now runs such big-name open source platforms as Node.js and Hadoop”. Microsoft, in the past, has been known to stick with its own tools; but the company recognizes that many developers rely on open source tools as well. As a result, Azure incorporates an open source mindset, a representation of the steps Microsoft will take to branch out for its users.
Strategic placements of datacenters across the world ensures that the user’s data is secure and reliable. Microsoft has worked hard to produce a cloud system with a wide reach, and it continues to update the system. “Microsoft has finally joined the mainstream by adding a full Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) offering that lets you deploy just about anything” (ZDnet.com). As these updates continue, Microsoft will no doubt build a good reputation as a key player in cloud based services.
Cons of Azure
With so many tools available for users, Azure has large capabilities. However, the main downside to such a system is that it still needs to enhance the perceptions initially placed upon the system. For some, Microsoft isn’t seen as a company willing to push boundaries. Azure still needs to show more support of non-Microsoft related tools and increase the scale of cloud datacenters to grab the attention of the market. The tools are great, but significant changes in infrastructure must be made to get more attention for its system.
This article is authored by Jackson Braven. Jackson was a personal finance manager who now consults on cloud computing migration for financial institutions.
