What is Microsoft Azure?
Microsoft Azure provides infrastructure and managed services for applications, databases, analytics and hybrid environments. Virtual Machines, App Service and Azure Functions represent different ways to run an application; their costs and operating responsibilities differ. Microsoft software familiarity can help frame an evaluation, but existing Microsoft 365 subscriptions do not establish that Azure infrastructure, support or all software licences are included.
Who is Microsoft Azure for?
Organisations evaluating cloud workloads alongside an existing Microsoft technology estate
Microsoft Azure features
The core capabilities to consider for your workflow.
- Virtual machines and application hosting
- Managed databases and storage
- Hybrid management services
- Identity and access integration
- Usage-based resource billing
Microsoft Azure pricing
Selected recurring service allowances
Build a resource-level estimate for infrastructure, data transfer, software licences and support. Verify eligibility for any existing-licence benefit rather than assuming it.
Calculate the cost of your quote →Free access & evaluation
Azure offers specified recurring free service amounts, plus selected 12-month allowances for new customers. The new-customer $200 credit lasts 30 days; moving to pay as you go is required to continue after that period or credit exhaustion.
Before you choose Microsoft Azure
Microsoft 365 and Azure infrastructure entitlements are separate
Resource, region, support and software licensing choices affect total cost
Continuing beyond the initial free account period requires a paid billing decision
Explore Microsoft Azure in more detail
Take a closer look at the decisions behind this product.
Compare platform scope and costs
Read the articleCompare Microsoft Azure
Explore the individual profiles
Microsoft Azure FAQs
Does Microsoft Azure have a free plan?
Azure offers specified recurring free service amounts, plus selected 12-month allowances for new customers. The new-customer $200 credit lasts 30 days; moving to pay as you go is required to continue after that period or credit exhaustion.
Who is Microsoft Azure for?
Organisations evaluating cloud workloads alongside an existing Microsoft technology estate
What should I compare before buying?
Check the tier that contains your essential features, confirm plan limits and compare the total quote with your own expected usage.