Microsoft Azure, formerly known as Windows Azure, is a cloud computing platform created by Microsoft for building, testing, deploying, and managing applications and services through Microsoft-managed data centers. It provides software as a service (SaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and infrastructure as a service (IaaS). Azure supports various programming languages, tools, and frameworks, including both Microsoft-specific and third-party software and systems. It was first announced in October 2008 under the codename "Project Red Dog" and officially launched in February 2010. The platform was later renamed Microsoft Azure on March 25, 2014.
Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO of Microsoft, has been instrumental in Azure's development, with Jason Zander serving as Executive Vice President of Microsoft Azure. Microsoft Azure holds a significant position in the cloud infrastructure market. As of Q2 2025, it held 20% of the global market share, making it the second-largest provider behind Amazon Web Services (AWS). In Q1 2025, Azure captured nearly 25% of the global cloud market and grew revenue by 33%. Recent news includes updates on AI-powered innovations, security enhancements, and new options for control with Microsoft Azure. However, Azure has also faced challenges, including a recent 10-hour outage in early February 2026 that affected virtual machine operations and managed identities.
