Windows 365 Link: Simplifying and Securing Cloud-Based Operating Systems

Tiago Costa / / Azure, Tech Gear

Microsoft has introduced a new category of cloud computing that allows users to access the full Windows 365 experience through streaming on a small computer. Windows 365 Link offers a cloud-based operating system experience, enabling users to stream their Windows desktop from Microsoft’s cloud to any device.

This enterprise-focused solution is designed for organizations adopting Windows 365, aiming to enhance user productivity, security, IT efficiency, and sustainability. The Windows 365 Link is Microsoft’s first Cloud PC, built to provide quick access to Windows 365 in seconds. It addresses virtualization challenges such as complex authentication steps, peripheral incompatibility, and latency issues, promising to resolve these with a solution that wakes up in seconds and quickly resumes work from the cloud.

The compact device supports two 4K monitors, has four USB ports, an Ethernet network port, and wireless connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. It offers high-performance video processing and conferencing capabilities, including Microsoft Teams, and integrates partner solutions like Cisco’s Webex.

Security is a priority, with the operating system locked down, no local data or apps, and no local admin privileges, reducing the risk of attacks. Authentication is passwordless, using Microsoft Entra ID, allowing access via multi-factor authentication methods such as the Microsoft Authenticator app, a QR code passkey, or a FIDO USB key.

The device simplifies IT management, reducing logistical challenges and costs for companies. Users only need to connect the PC, set up the internet, and authenticate their account to start working in minutes. The Windows 365 Link is available for initial testing in select countries and is expected to hit the market in April 2025 for $349.

📖Learn more: Windows 365 Link—the first Cloud PC device – Windows IT Pro Blog

Introducing Azure Local: Cloud Infrastructure for Distributed Locations

Tiago Costa / / Random words

Today at Microsoft Ignite, one of the announcements was about Azure Local.

Azure’s adaptive cloud approach, powered by Azure Arc, revolutionizes how over 39,000 customers manage their hybrid, multi-cloud, and edge infrastructure. With Azure Local, you can deploy cloud-connected infrastructure at your physical locations, maintaining operational control while leveraging Azure’s powerful tools and services.

Key Features of Azure Local:

  • Unified Management: Operate and scale distributed infrastructure using the Azure portal and APIs, treating physical machines like cloud resources.
  • Flexible Deployment: Connect compatible machines to Azure Arc and follow a simple workflow to create an Azure Local instance with customizable clusters, networking, and storage options.
  • Seamless Updates: Manage Azure Local updates through Azure Update Manager, ensuring non-disruptive updates in multi-node environments.
  • Centralized Monitoring: Integrate with Azure Monitor for unified observability across cloud resources and distributed locations.
  • Support for All Apps: Run VMs and containers, Windows and Linux, side-by-side on the same physical infrastructure.
  • Enhanced Security: With built-in security features and integration with Microsoft Defender for Cloud, extend cloud security practices to your distributed locations.

Azure Local offers flexible hardware and software options to meet your specific requirements and budget, making it an ideal solution for industries with distributed computing needs. Whether you’re in retail, manufacturing, finance, or government, Azure Local provides the tools to enhance efficiency, security, and scalability.

What do you think about this announcement? Excited?

📖Learn more: Introducing Azure Local, cloud infrastructure for distributed locations enabled by Azure Arc

Achieving GitHub Foundations Certification: A Milestone in My Ongoing Journey

Tiago Costa / / Random words

I’m pleased to share that I’ve recently completed the GitHub Foundations Certification. While it may seem like a small milestone, given my extensive experience with GitHub over the years, it felt like an essential step in formalizing and validating my knowledge.

Credly badge: GitHub Foundations – Credly


GitHub has been a core part of my daily workflow for quite some time. From version control to collaboration on various projects, GitHub has been integral to my consulting and teaching efforts. When teaching Microsoft Official Azure Training like Azure Administrator, Developer, and Architect, … I use several repositories on the Microsoft Learning organization to keep the labs updated. Then we have the Microsoft DevOps Solutions course, aka the AZ-400 exam, that has some modules dedicated to GitHub. We can’t forget the use of GitHub when consulting projects focused on Azure and AI.


Although I’ve worked extensively with GitHub in different contexts, the certification provided me with a structured opportunity to refine and consolidate my understanding of best practices, workflows, and advanced features I may not have encountered daily.


Incorporating GitHub into my Azure DevOps training sessions and consulting projects has always been a natural fit. Whether I’m teaching students about CI/CD pipelines in the AZ-400 course or helping clients with their Azure and AI solutions, GitHub plays a crucial role in facilitating collaboration and version control. It’s invaluable when setting up and managing repositories for code, automating workflows, or working with teams across different locations.


While this certification might be a little overdue, given my years of experience, I’m proud to have it as a formal acknowledgment of my expertise. It reminds me that even with extensive experience, there’s always room to learn and grow.


Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue leveraging GitHub in my projects, teaching, and consulting work while sharing my insights. The platform’s evolving features, especially in the context of Azure and AI, present incredible opportunities for more efficient development and collaboration.


I highly recommend the certification to anyone considering it. It’s an excellent way to validate your skills, stay updated with GitHub’s latest capabilities, and ensure you make the most of this powerful tool in personal and professional projects.


As part of my commitment to sharing knowledge, I’m currently working on creating two new courses: one focused on Git Essentials and another on GitHub. If you’re starting with Git and GitHub, these courses will guide you through the fundamentals and best practices, ensuring you have a solid foundation on which to build. You can find these courses and many others on my learning platform, Learn With Tiago, available at https://learn.tiagocosta.com. Stay tuned for updates, and I look forward to helping you master these essential tools!

 Join Me at ESPC 2024 in Stockholm!

Tiago Costa / / Random words

I’ll be speaking at the European SharePoint, Office 365 & Azure Conference (ESPC) 2024 in the beautiful city of Stockholm! Mark your calendars for December 3rd to 5th, and get ready for an incredible event filled with learning, networking, and inspiration.

I’m particularly excited to share that my session, “Azure Infrastructure as a Service Unleashed: A Comprehensive Journey into Design, Deploy, Manage IaaS Workloads,” will dive deep into the intricacies of Azure IaaS. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your Azure journey, this session promises to equip you with valuable insights and practical knowledge to harness the full potential of Azure’s capabilities.

ESPC 2024 is a fantastic opportunity to connect with industry experts, explore the latest innovations, and gain insights that can propel your career forward. I can’t wait to see you there and share this learning experience with you!

Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t forget to register for ESPC 2024. See you in Stockholm!

More information at https://www.sharepointeurope.com/

5 Essential Skills for Microsoft Azure Beginners

Tiago Costa / / Azure, Certification

If you’re new to Azure, diving into the world of cloud computing can feel overwhelming. Microsoft Azure is a powerful platform offering a broad range of services, and getting familiar with the fundamentals is critical.

Here are the top five skills every beginner should focus on to build a strong Azure foundation:

1. Cloud Computing Basics

Before diving into Azure specifics, it’s essential to understand the fundamentals of cloud computing. This includes grasping the core concepts of Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). Knowing how these models differ will help you choose the right services and solutions as you start to work with Azure.

Tip: Explore Azure’s free learning modules on Microsoft Learn to build a foundational understanding of cloud principles. This Learning Path is a great way to get started: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals: Describe cloud concepts – Training | Microsoft Learn

2. Azure Resource Management

Effective resource management is critical in Azure. This includes knowing how to create and manage virtual machines, storage accounts, and networking components. Start by learning to use the Azure portal, Azure CLI, and PowerShell to deploy and manage resources. Also, understanding Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates (Json and Bicep) can be highly valuable for automating deployments.

Tip: Practice setting up resources in the Azure portal and then move to ARM templates or CLI commands for a more flexible, repeatable setup.

3. Networking Basics

Networking forms the backbone of cloud infrastructure, so basic networking knowledge is essential. In Azure, this means understanding virtual networks (VNets), subnets, and the importance of network security groups (NSGs). Familiarize yourself with concepts like VPNs, IP addressing, Peering, and load balancing as they apply to Azure.

Tip: Use the Azure portal’s built-in labs to create and configure your VNets and play around with NSG rules to control traffic flow.

4. Security Fundamentals

Security is critical in any cloud environment, and Azure provides several tools and best practices for protecting your applications and data. Begin by understanding Microsoft Entra ID (formerly known as Azure AD), Azure’s identity and access management service. Explore role-based access control (RBAC) to manage who has access to Azure resources and become familiar with basic security settings like firewalls, encryption, and managed identities.

Tip: Review Microsoft Defender to see security recommendations and use them to monitor and improve your security posture as you build.

5. Cost Management and Budgeting

Managing costs is often overlooked by beginners, but understanding Azure’s pricing and billing structure is crucial. Get familiar with the Azure Pricing Calculator and Azure Cost Management + Billing. These tools allow you to estimate and monitor costs, helping you avoid unexpected bills. Knowing how to set up budgets and alerts will ensure you stay within your budget as you explore Azure services.

Tip: Use the free Azure cost management resources and set up cost alerts to track spending on your account.

Final Thoughts

These five skills form the foundation for getting started with Microsoft Azure. As you grow more comfortable, you can explore more specialized areas like DevOps, data storage, or AI and machine learning on Azure. Remember, learning Microsoft Azure is a journey, and consistent practice is the key to mastery. Dive in, explore, and enjoy the power and flexibility that Azure brings to the world of cloud computing! I am always just a message away if you have any questions!