Azure Updates: Network capabilities; Cache for Redis; Oracle WebLogic Server; DNS Firewall features

Microsoft highlighted the expansiveness of its network for Azure data centers, changes around Cache for Redis, Oracle WebLogic Server, DNS Firewall features and more.

Microsoft CTO Mark Russinovich touted Azure's networking capabilities, describing interconnects as "highway system." The company prioritizes network reliability, with redundant topology, safe deployment practices, root-cause analysis and safety measures aimed at preventing sabotage or anticipating damaging storms. Together with Zero Touch Operations and capacity planning, Microsoft simulates changes in its One Network Emulator environment, relying in-part on Virtual Extensible LAN tunnels. Real Time Operation Checker fills a similar role, determining the current condition of the network and anticipating potential isolation or congestion caused by network changes.

Julia Liuson, CVP for the Developer Division at Microsoft, discussed the expansion of features for Azure Cache for Redis. Back in May, Microsoft partnered with Redis Labs to bring Redis Enterprise software to Azure. According to Liuson, Redis provides way for developers to optimize data architecture, do session storing and manage a distributed cache. Currently, the solution is split between an Enterprise and Enterprise Flash tier. It provides set-up and configuration through Azure portal, integration with security and monitoring tools and integrated billing. She also profiled more specialized features such as Redis on Flash, zone redundant replication, Redis Enterprise Modules, or private link network isolation. Zone redundant storage is helping to expand Cache for Redis' already high 99.9 percent up-time. Liuson shared recommendations on using Redis at enterprise scale and more details about newly added modules.