Microsoft has recently introduced significant networking enhancements to its Azure Local hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI) platform, formerly known as Azure Stack HCI. These updates aim to provide a more consistent and secure networking experience across both cloud and edge environments.
Software-Defined Networking (SDN) Integration via Azure Arc
A pivotal addition to Azure Local is the integration of SDN capabilities through Azure Arc. This integration empowers users to configure network security rules by creating network security groups (NSGs), defining specific security rules, and assigning them to logical networks and network interfaces. This approach ensures a uniform networking experience, bridging the gap between on-premises management and cloud-native security policies.
Consistent Network Adapter Naming
Addressing a common challenge faced by network administrators, Microsoft has implemented consistent device naming for compatible network adapters. This feature provides predictable network interface identification during installation and management, mitigating issues related to inconsistent adapter naming across various deployments.
Enhanced Network Security Measures
The latest release of Azure Local has expanded its security baseline by increasing the number of validated security rules from 324 to 407. This enhancement aligns the platform with over 90% of industry benchmarks, including the CIS Azure Compute Windows Baseline and DISA STIG standards. Additionally, Microsoft Defender Antivirus settings have been updated to incorporate network inspection features and attack surface reduction rules tailored specifically for Azure Local deployments.
Operating System Versions and Deployment Considerations
For existing Azure Local deployments, the platform continues to operate on OS version 25398.1665. New deployments will utilize OS version 26100.4349. Administrators are advised to ensure driver compatibility with the new OS version or Windows Server 2025 prior to deployment. The 2506 release of Azure Local is available for download from the Azure portal; however, this update is not supported for Azure Local instances deployed in the Azure Government cloud.
Conclusion
These networking updates position Azure Local as a more robust hybrid-infrastructure offering. By integrating SDN features via Azure Arc, implementing consistent network adapter naming, and enhancing network security measures, Microsoft continues to bridge the gap between on-premises management and cloud-native security policies, providing users with a seamless and secure networking experience.
Source: SDxCentral Microsoft adds SDN features and network security updates to Azure Local
