Microsoft recently rebranded Azure Stack HCI as Azure Local Azure LocalThis rebranding not only introduces a shorter name but also symbolizes a broader vision. Azure Local extends beyond hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI) and now offers flexible deployment options, ranging from edge computing to large-scale data centers, and even fully disconnected disconnected environments from the Azure Cloud..

What’s changing with Azure Local?

Azure Local makes hybrid cloud solutions more accessible and flexible. While Azure Stack HCI primarily focused on a traditional hyperconverged approach, Azure Local expands the possibilities. Organizations now have greater freedom of choice in hardware and infrastructure, ranging from small edge solutions to enterprise-scale data center deployments. The ability to work with both local storage and existing SAN solutions makes it easier for businesses to choose the right infrastructure for their specific needs.

Additionally, Azure Local supports a broader range of workloads. While the previous focus was on virtual machines and Kubernetes clusters, Azure Local now enables AI workloads, advanced networking capabilities, and operational technologies that help accelerate digital transformation. For environments where continuous cloud connectivity is not guaranteed, Azure Local can function independently, without requiring a constant connection to Azure.

The impact of the name change

The transition from Azure Stack HCI to Azure Local is more than just a rebranding—it reflects a strategic shift in how Microsoft envisions and positions hybrid cloud solutions. Previously, Azure Stack HCI was primarily associated with hyperconverged infrastructure, which led to the perception that it was a niche product for specific IT environments. With this new name, Microsoft emphasizes the versatility and broad applicability of the technology, making it an attractive option for a wider range of businesses and industries.

With this change, Azure Local is no longer seen as just an edge solution but rather as a fully integrated hybrid cloud solution that can be deployed both in data centers and smaller, distributed environments. This gives businesses greater flexibility in designing and managing their IT infrastructure. Moreover, the name change reinforces a stronger integration with Azure services, offering organizations a seamless experience, whether their workloads are running on-premises or in the cloud. Through Azure Arc, businesses can now create a consistent management environment, enabling them to manage their infrastructure efficiently without adding complexity.

Azure Local Disconnected

One of the most significant developments within Azure Local is the introduction of Azure Local Disconnected. This concept allows organizations to build fully isolated IT infrastructures, without requiring a continuous connection to Azure. This is particularly valuable for industries where data security and operational independence are critical, such as defense, healthcare, and manufacturing environments with sensitive operations.

Full control without a cloud connection

With Azure Local disconnected, workloads can continue running even without an internet connection. This ensures that companies operating in remote areas or high-security sectors maintain full control over their IT environment. Instead of requiring a constant connection to the Azure cloud, updates and billing information are synchronized periodically through an offline mechanism. This keeps systems up to date and fully operational without compromising security or performance.

Additionally, essential Azure services such as Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) and Key Vault remain accessible within a disconnected environment. This enables organizations to manage complex applications and data storage without relying on an external cloud connection. Not only does this provide an extra layer of security in critical situations, but it also ensures that mission-critical operations continue uninterrupted, even in the event of temporary network failures.

Although Azure Local disconnected will initially support a limited set of features, Microsoft is expected to expand this offering significantly in the coming years. This makes it a promising option for organizations that require maximum autonomy and security without sacrificing modern cloud functionalities.