Microsoft cloud and virtualization

As administrators virtualize applications on Hyper-V and push workloads into the Microsoft Azure cloud platform, they need a reliable resource for information. This Microsoft cloud and virtualization topic center offers updates and advice on how to get the most out of emerging technologies, such as Docker containers.

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June 20, 2018 20 Jun'18
Archive360 mixes and matches cloud data archiving elements

Archive360's Archive2Azure previously supported file and message archiving. Now, users can archive Salesforce and healthcare data, among other elements, to the Azure cloud.
June 06, 2018 06 Jun'18
Success of GitHub deal hinges on Azure's open source appeal

Microsoft's ongoing détente with the open source community advances with a deal to purchase GitHub, the world's largest open source code repository.
March 26, 2018 26 Mar'18
Windows Server 2019 preview draws Azure closer

Windows Server 2019 will come with a number of enhancements to cater to administrators who want a tighter connection to the Azure cloud platform, Microsoft said.
August 25, 2016 25 Aug'16
Microsoft Ignite 2016 conference coverage

Find all the independent reporting and analysis from the Microsoft Ignite conference 2016 in one place.

Bring yourself up to speed with our introductory content

How to build a Packer image for Azure

Packer is an open source tool that automates the Windows Server image building process to give administrators a consistent approach to create new VMs. Continue Reading
What is the Hyper-V VHD Set format and how is it optimized?

VHD File Set -- a file format new to Windows Server 2016 -- is helpful for IT administrators using guest clusters. Get up to speed on the basics and learn how to optimize it. Continue Reading
Kubernetes in Azure eases container deployment duties

Using containers in the cloud will require an orchestration tool. Azure Kubernetes Service helps create and manage the clusters when running containers on the Azure platform. Continue Reading

Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.

Hyper-V Manager update in Windows Server 2016 replete with features

Microsoft developed several improvements to Hyper-V Manager in Windows Server 2016. These new Hyper-V features improve VM management with added security and flexibility options. Continue Reading
Microsoft Ignite 2017 conference coverage

Check all the developments from the Microsoft Ignite 2017 conference in Orlando and track the company's strategic moves in its hardware, software and services businesses. Continue Reading
Is Storage Spaces Direct a viable alternative to hyper-convergence?

Windows Storage Spaces Direct can act like a hyper-converged system, but it's more do-it-yourself hyper-convergence, and may not offer all that you need in an HCI product. Continue Reading

Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

How many Hyper-V virtual processors should I configure per VM?

There isn't a set number of virtual processors you should configure for a Hyper-V VM, but there are steps you can take to ensure your workloads receive enough processor resources. Continue Reading
Manage Switch Embedded Teaming in Windows Server 2016 Hyper-V

You can create and manage a Switch Embedded Team in Hyper-V using just a few PowerShell commands, but there are specific requirements and limitations you should be aware of. Continue Reading
Use Sysprep to generalize Hyper-V VMs for rapid deployment

Microsoft's Sysprep tool enables rapid Hyper-V VM configuration and deployment through image generalization. Use commands to speed up configuration and disaster recovery. Continue Reading

We’ve gathered up expert advice and tips from professionals like you so that the answers you need are always available.

How to bring Azure costs down to earth

Don't let Azure VMs rack up a huge monthly bill from Microsoft. Figure out your business needs, then adjust the options in Azure to minimize charges. Continue Reading
Azure RMS offers a simpler data protection alternative

The hosted version of Microsoft's on-premises Rights Management Services offers data protection features without the complexity. Continue Reading
Building out private clouds with Windows Server 2012 R2 Hyper-V

The latest iterations of Windows Server and Hyper-V have capabilities and features especially for building private clouds. Continue Reading