Understanding Microsoft Azure: What is it? And how can it benefit my business? 

Many businesses will have heard of the term “cloud computing;” However, this generalised term can take on a wide range of forms to perform a wide range of tasks. Microsoft Azure stands as a pivotal and comprehensive suite of cloud computing services that enables businesses to build, manage, and deploy solutions on a global network. Over the past 5–10 years, many businesses throughout the UK (United Kingdom) have begun to undergo or plan for large-scale digital transformation projects. The logistics, warehousing, and manufacturing industries stand out as some of the industries that have undergone the most significant shift. Understanding and leveraging platforms like Microsoft Azure has become crucial for businesses aiming to thrive in today's competitive landscape.

What is Microsoft Azure?
Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing platform and an online portal that allows access to, and management of cloud services and resources provided by Microsoft. These services and resources include storing your data, transforming it, and even adding intelligence to your applications, among other capabilities. Azure offers an array of services across various domains, such as computing, analytics, storage, and networking, enabling businesses to leverage the power of cloud computing without the need to invest in physical servers and data centres.

Different Aspects of Azure and Their Benefits
Computing Services: Microsoft Azure provides the ability for businesses to use virtual machines, container services, and app services, among others. These resources give businesses the flexibility to scale their computing needs on demand, leading to significant cost savings over traditional infrastructure and increased efficiency in deploying and managing solutions.

Storage Solutions: With Azure, enterprises have access to highly secure and scalable cloud storage solutions. This includes Blob storage for unstructured data, file storage for SMB-based (Server Message Block) cloud file shares, much like you would find on a traditional NAS (Network Attached Storage) or server, and Queue Storage for storing large volumes of messages. By implementing cloud storage solutions such as this for business applications, businesses benefit from reduced storage costs and enhanced data accessibility and security.

Database Management: Azure offers a wide range of managed database services, such as; Azure SQL Database, and Azure Database for MySQL (among others). These services provide high availability, security, and scalability, enabling businesses to securely manage their databases efficiently without extensive infrastructure maintenance or downtime.

AI and Machine Learning: Azure's AI and machine learning capabilities allow businesses to build and deploy AI-driven solutions, offering insights and enhancing customer experiences. Tools like Azure Machine Learning and Azure Cognitive Services make it easier for businesses to adopt AI technologies. 

Networking: Azure provides a range of networking tools, such as Azure Virtual Network, Load Balancer, and ExpressRoute. These tools ensure secure and reliable connectivity between your cloud services, on-premises infrastructure, and the internet, improving performance and the user experience. 

Security and User Identity: Azure's security and user identity services, including Azure Active Directory, Azure PIM, and Azure Sentinel, offer robust security measures and user identity & access management solutions. This ensures that businesses can protect their data and applications in the cloud with confidence while also following the Principles of Least Privileged Access.

How can TwentyFour IT Services help you effectively implement and manage Azure?
While Azure offers a multitude of benefits, navigating and managing its complex suite of services can be daunting for businesses of every size. This is where partnering with TwentyFour IT Services becomes essential. As certified specialists in Microsoft Azure, we assist businesses in tailoring Azure solutions to meet their specific needs, ensuring that security best practices are followed, compliance requirements are met, and businesses can innovate and grow using Azure's cloud capabilities.  

We help businesses ensure there is a strategic approach to implementing Azure solutions, from initial consultation and planning to ongoing management and support. Our expert and experienced implementation and support engineers ensure that businesses not only transition to the cloud smoothly, but also make the most of their cloud services.

If you would like to find out more about how TwentyFour can help your business with its digital transformation and cloud computing projects, fill out the form below or contact us for more information.