Microsoft Promotes Azure as Alternative to Physical Computer Labs

Microsoft is hoping to replace the concept of the physical computer lab on campus with its cloud-based version. The company already has DevTest Labs for test environments. Now it's promoting Azure Lab Services to enable a campus to set up an environment, provision Windows or Linux virtual machines, install the software and tools that are needed and make them available to users.

Lab users use a registration code to connect to virtual machines and use them for class work. Users may be limited to exactly the applications they need access to and the number of hours they're allowed on the virtual machines.

The lab "owner" or "creator" can set lab schedules to automatically shut down and start up virtual machines; specify the time slots when the lab's virtual machines are accessible to users; set usage policies per user or per lab to optimize cost; and analyze usage and activity trends in a lab. A given lab can be deleted quickly when it's no longer needed.

The cloud service takes care of the infrastructure management for a managed lab, including spinning up the virtual machines and other activities related to scaling the infrastructure.

Information about Azure Lab Services is available on the Microsoft website.

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a former senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal, Campus Technology and Spaces4Learning.

Featured

  •  black graduation cap with a glowing blue AI brain circuit symbol on top

    Report: AI Is a Must for Modern Learners

    A new report from VitalSource identifies a growing demand among learners for AI tools, declaring that "AI isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a must."

  • AI-powered individual working calmly on one side and a burnt-out person slumped over a laptop on the other

    Researchers: AI's Productivity Gains Come at a Cost

    A recent academic study found that as organizations adopt AI tools, they're not just streamlining workflows — they're piling on new demands. Researchers suggested that "AI technostress" is driving burnout and disrupting personal lives, even as organizations hail productivity gains.

  • illustration of a football stadium with helmet on the left and laptop with ed tech icons on the right

    The 2025 NFL Draft and Ed Tech Selection: A Strategic Parallel

    In the fast-evolving landscape of collegiate football, the NFL, and higher education, one might not immediately draw connections between the 2025 NFL Draft and the selection of proper educational technology for a college campus. However, upon closer examination, both processes share striking similarities: a rigorous assessment of needs, long-term strategic impact, talent or tool evaluation, financial considerations, and adaptability to a dynamic future.

  • young woman using a smartphone, with digital AI and chat icons overlaid in a blurred academic setting

    Duolingo Embraces AI in Push for Scalable Learning

    Learning platform Duolingo has officially declared itself "AI-first," aiming to make learning replicable, scalable, and always available.