If you have a great idea for a new software application, Microsoft Azure is a great place to host it. The platform can save you a lot of money in hosting fees and expensive developer time because apps are so easy to deploy.
1. Bizspark
BizSpark is an exciting solution for new startups. If your company is less than 5 years old, is privately held, and earns less than $1M annually, BizSpark will provide three years of free software, services, tech support, and Azure cloud. Not only does this equate to huge savings, at the end of the three year period you keep all the software you’ve downloaded – at no cost. Pretty awesome, right? You can get all the details here.
2. Ease of Deployment
Another great reason to choose Azure is the ease of deployment.
Deploying code involves getting a developer’s code off their local computer and onto a server where users can access it. You wouldn’t think this would be a big deal, but server configuration often eats up a lot of developer time. Time that is taken away from development.
Azure supports many different programming languages, including ASP.NET, Node.js, Java, PHP, and Python. The platform allows users to deploy apps with just a few clicks.
3. Auto Scale
As more people start using an app there will be a heavier load placed on server. More resources will be needed. Normally, this would create a headache for startup founders and dev teams. Azure Web Apps removes this frustration. With the click-and-drag of a few sliders you can configure an app to auto scale based on several different metrics.
Auto Scaling enables a web app to handle sudden bursts in traffic without crashing. On the flip side, Auto Scaling can save you money by scaling back resources when the app is not under heavy load.
You can also configure the app to auto scale down on weekends if users are less active during that time (or vice versa).
4. Security
For many companies, a major concern about moving to the cloud is the security of customer information. Azure understands this, and has made security a top priority. The platform’s data centers are among the most secure on the planet. The Azure Infrastructure is compliant with most certifications, and is capable of keeping HIPAA and PCI compliant data safe.
Closing
One of the main benefits of using Azure is the ease and speed of deployment, without the frustrations of server management. If you are in the process of launching a new application, Azure should be at the top of your list.
But, don’t just take my word for it…
One of the best testimonials on Azure comes from John Gruber who is a very successful writer about Apple, and creator of the popular iOS app Vesper. In this video, John explains why he loves Azure:
Need help getting setting up with Azure? We can help!