The Windows Azure

Windows Azure is simply the core of Azure Platform Services, which is what developers and users will actually interact with. Developers can pick and choose the features they need from a second layer, such as a database, business tools, or even functionality provided by a third-party application. Windows Azure is actually the cloud OS that serves as the “development, run-time, and control environment” for the Azure Services Platform. The platform enables developers to build, host, scale, and deploy web applications in the cloud.
Windows Azure is an open platform that will support both Microsoft and non-Microsoft languages and environments. Windows Azure is based on a service model, with roles and groups, channels and endpoints, interfaces, and configuration settings - all stored as XML for manipulation with any tool. Windows Azure is Microsoft’s new web tier offering as Windows in the cloud.

Development is local using a development server that mimincs the Azure network, just like Cassini mimicts IIS during development. And ofcouse Azul also contains workflow services Windows Azure is the development, hosting, and management environment of the Azure Services Platform, which enables you to run applications at Internet scale while leveraging the skills and tools you use today. Developers provide Microsoft with the code for the service and the architecture of the service model, and the company provided automated service management. Developers will most likely get virtualized Windows Server 2008 instances, whether they ever “see” them or not. These computational services are being rolled out in sort of a staged format.

Microsoft said it’s Windows Azure business model, like other hosted offerings, will be based on usage and service levels. So the cost will depend on what the enterprise can tolerate. Microsoft says we are moving toward the 5th generation of computing, in which applications will no longer be confined to the PC. In addition, the Internet has become the primary method in which customers interact with businesses. Microsoft has definitely aimed high with Azure. We’ve seen hints of this strategy with previous releases like its Live Mesh storage service. Microsoft Sync Framework makes no assumptions about how data is stored or transmitted. Sync Framework places no restrictions on the type of data sources that can be synchronized, the protocol and network that are used to communicate with each data source, or the type of synchronization topology that is used.

Microsoft’s idea is that you can use the software as normal on your computer but the data would be kept on the cloud but totally accessible by you using any compatible device that can connect to the web. Regardless of where you are as long as your device; whether it be a desktop, laptop or mobile device, you can sign in and access your data.