Windows Azure

Recently, I was researching about Windows Azure benefit from msdn to see how it would add value to our dev team. All the msdn subscribers get some free credits that they can use to start exploring cloud development. Here are some things, that I was able to do. Create a new website, a new SQL database and a new VM with Windows Server 2012 R2 all within minutes. It is all pretty straightforward and you can get started on it with a few clicks. I had to provide the mobile number for Microsoft to text some confirmation code in the sign up process. I was able to connect to the Windows Azure SQL Database from SQL Server 2012 Management Studio with no major issues. I had to enable the firewall on the Azure portal to allow the IP address, though.