S6E4 - Microsoft updates January - new products and features released
Feb 7, 2025
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Discover the latest innovations in Azure, with exciting updates on Azure NetApp Files, hibernation features for virtual machines, and the next-gen Azure Databox. The hosts dive into key Microsoft products like Entra, Intune, and Defender, discussing their vital security updates and the implications of shadow AI on IT. Learn about data privacy trends in app downloads and the challenges of insider risk management. Plus, catch previews of upcoming features in Microsoft Defender for SQL that will enhance your cloud security!
48:21
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Quick takeaways
The podcast emphasizes the urgency for organizations to proactively manage and monitor AI tool usage to mitigate security risks.
Significant updates in Microsoft Defender and Entra highlight improved usability and enhanced security features, promoting cohesive data protection strategies.
Deep dives
Understanding Shadow AI and Security Reactions
The podcast discusses the rising concern regarding Shadow AI usage within organizations, highlighting a recent surge of interest around tools like DeepSeek. As organizations become increasingly aware of their security vulnerabilities, there is a focus on understanding how data shared with such tools is managed and processed. The episode emphasizes that organizations need to be proactive in monitoring their environments and setting policies regarding the use of AI applications. This shift reflects a broader trend in IT security where visibility into data sharing and privacy policies is becoming paramount for risk management.
Key Updates on Microsoft Defender and Entra
Significant updates in Microsoft Defender and Entra are highlighted, particularly improvements in usability and security features. For instance, Defender for Endpoint has introduced aggregated reporting, which simplifies data for hunting or generating reports, while Entra now offers enhanced visibility into downstream tenant sign-ins. Additionally, advancements in insider risk management are being integrated more closely with the Defender suite, suggesting a more cohesive approach to security across Microsoft platforms. These updates illustrate a clear trajectory towards enhancing user experience while strengthening data protection capabilities.
Innovations in Azure Services and Storage Solutions
The episode details several innovations in Azure services, including new pricing models for Azure Files that offer more flexibility for provisioning storage to manage costs effectively. Noteworthy is the introduction of a public preview for Azure DevTest Labs, enabling hibernation of machines to optimize costs during idle periods, thus enhancing efficiency. Furthermore, advancements such as support for WebSocket communication in application gateways signify Azure's commitment to improving real-time data exchanges for applications. These improvements cater to the growing demands of cloud infrastructure usability and performance.
Beta Preview of Azure Data Box and Operational Enhancements
Exciting news about the Azure Data Box is shared, highlighting its new models designed for faster and more secure offline data transfers, with features like NVMe drives for improved performance. The discussion includes specifics such as data transfer rates that can reach up to seven gigabytes per second, which enhances operational efficiency for organizations needing rapid data migration. Moreover, the introduction of these devices reaffirms Microsoft's strategy to provide scalable solutions while ensuring adherence to local compliance standards. These advancements aim to empower users with better tools for data management and security in cloud environments.
This week, Alan and Sam talk about new features and services that have gone into Public Preview or General Available status in the last month. We dive into a couple of these updates that peaked our interest.
Some of the Microsoft product features and update we covered:
Key Microsoft Entra, Intune and Defender features and updates
Lots of Azure changes and new features
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