What is Windows Server on Azure?
Windows Server on Azure enables running Windows Server workloads on Azure Virtual Machines. Microsoft offers pre-configured VM images for Windows Server 2012 R2 through 2025 in all editions. Azure is the optimal cloud platform for Windows Server with exclusive features like Azure Hybrid Benefit, Hot-Patching, and Extended Security Updates for older versions.
Windows Server VMs integrate seamlessly with Azure Active Directory, Azure Backup, Azure Monitor, and other Azure services.
Key Features
- All Windows Server Versions: Images for 2012 R2, 2016, 2019, 2022, and 2025 in Standard and Datacenter Edition
- Azure Hybrid Benefit: Use existing Windows Server licenses for up to 40% savings
- Hot Patching: Security updates without reboot for Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Azure Edition
- Extended Security Updates: Free ESU for Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 when running in Azure
- Azure AD Integration: Native sign-in with Azure AD credentials without traditional Active Directory
Typical Use Cases
Lift-and-Shift Migration: Migrating existing Windows Server workloads like File Server, SQL Server, or SharePoint to the cloud.
Active Directory in Azure: Domain controllers in Azure for hybrid identity scenarios or pure cloud environments.
Windows-based Applications: Running .NET Framework, IIS, and other Windows-specific workloads.
Benefits
- Microsoft-native Platform: Best compatibility and support for Windows Server
- License Flexibility: Pay-as-you-go or BYOL with Azure Hybrid Benefit
- Exclusive Azure Features: Hot Patching and Azure Edition features only available on Azure
- Hybrid-ready: Azure Arc, Azure File Sync, and Azure Backup for hybrid scenarios
Frequently Asked Questions about Windows Server on Azure
Which VM sizes are recommended for Windows Server?
For general workloads, D-Series VMs with balanced CPU/RAM ratio are suitable. E-Series for memory-intensive workloads like SQL Server. F-Series for compute-intensive applications. B-Series for development/test with burstable performance.
How does Azure Hybrid Benefit work?
With existing Windows Server licenses with Software Assurance, you can pay only for VM compute costs and bring your own license. This reduces costs by up to 40%. Activation occurs during VM creation or afterwards.
Do I still need my own domain controllers?
For pure Azure environments, you can use Azure AD Domain Services (Managed AD). For hybrid scenarios with on-premises AD, domain controller VMs in Azure with site-to-site replication are recommended.
How do I secure Windows Server VMs?
Enable Microsoft Defender for Servers for vulnerability assessment and threat detection. Use Azure Backup for regular backups. Implement Network Security Groups and Just-in-Time VM Access for network security.
What is Windows Server Azure Edition?
Azure Edition is exclusive to Azure and offers features like Hot Patching (updates without reboot), SMB over QUIC for secure file shares, and extended storage features for Azure.
Integration with innFactory
As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, innFactory supports you with Windows Server on Azure: from migration planning to Active Directory design to ongoing optimization and cost control.
