Dell & Microsoft expand Azure partnership for hybrid cloud
Dell Technologies has announced an expansion of its collaboration with Microsoft, introducing new cloud and data protection solutions aimed at simplifying hybrid and multicloud management for enterprises. The portfolio highlights expanded integration with Microsoft Azure and a focus on cyber resilience and workplace modernisation.
Hybrid cloud integration
New integrations are being introduced for Dell Private Cloud and PowerStore with Azure Local, a development aimed at providing organisations with increased flexibility and automation across hybrid environments. Command over both on-premises and cloud infrastructure is delivered through automated lifecycle management, independent scaling, and infrastructure that aligns with future IT needs. PowerStore also brings always-on data reduction and NVMe performance to these deployments, targeting greater efficiency and adaptability for customer workloads.
Dell and Microsoft are enabling businesses to address both legacy and modern workloads in a unified manner through these co-engineered approaches.
File storage solution
Dell PowerScale for Azure was introduced as a fully managed service designed for handling data-intensive applications and managing unstructured data. PowerScale is integrated natively into the Azure ecosystem, allowing businesses to manage files seamlessly across on-premises and cloud locations. It delivers scalability, security, and resilient storage as a managed service. Dell assumes responsibility for the deployment, updates, and ongoing management of the platform, aiming to ensure data availability and integrity without additional operational complexity for users.
Data protection advances
Dell revealed updates to PowerProtect Backup Services, which is deployed as a backup-as-a-service offering within Azure, to further support hybrid workloads. Enhanced protection across cloud environments is a key focus, aimed at simplifying cyber resilience measures at scale for customers with multi- and hybrid-cloud strategies.
The company highlighted features such as automated recovery to maintain business continuity, simplified management of cyber resilience, and the ability to protect workloads across any cloud hosted within the Microsoft Azure ecosystem.
"With Dell Cyber Resilience you can strengthen your defences with Dell and Azure-powered cyber resilience solutions, automate recovery to ensure business continuity with minimal disruption, and simplify cyber resilience across your hybrid and multicloud infrastructure," said Dell Technologies spokesperson.
AI PCs and workplace modernisation
Dell introduced new features for its AI-powered PCs designed for deep integration with Microsoft Intune, Windows 11, and Microsoft 365. These systems are equipped with built-in AI processors, supporting automation, personalisation, and improved security by processing workloads locally. New tools and enablers for developers focus on deploying on-device AI applications and expanding support for different silicon architectures within the Dell AI Factory portfolio.
The manufacturer stated these enhancements are intended to give customers operational flexibility and cost control. Security and manageability remain central to the company's approach to workplace tools.
Professional services
Dell also described its Professional Services for Microsoft, which assist businesses in deploying and using Microsoft environments with a focus on security and productivity. These services are supported by Dell Payment Solutions to facilitate digital transformation objectives, according to the company.
"We help businesses modernise securely and intelligently, driving productivity gains, strengthening security, and building resilience," said Dell Technologies spokesperson.