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ZDNet
Microsoft's new Azure Linux 4.0 is here, and it could replace Windows Server in the enterprise
Microsoft has officially launched Azure Linux 4.0, which is now available for bare-metal servers and virtual machines. This release represents a shift from its original design as a cloud-optimized service to a fully-fledged Linux distribution. Azure Linux is based on Fedora and offers curated packages designed for Azure's cloud ecosystem. Its flexibility allows for installation outside of Azure, though users will not receive formal support unless they deploy via Azure itself. The distribution includes enhancements like a hardened kernel and integrated Azure security features.
ExperimentConfidence: MediumShort term horizon
Published 2 Jul 2026, 14:01 UTC4 min read
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Summary
TL;DR
- Azure Linux 4.0 can now be installed on bare-metal servers and VMs.
- Based on Fedora Linux, tailored for Azure infrastructure.
- Includes features like a hardened kernel and SELinux-based security.
- Not designed for desktop use; focuses on server workloads.
- Dual positioning as both a standalone OS and Azure-centric solution.
Interesting facts
- Microsoft is targeting developers with the ability to use Azure Linux for WSL.
- The distribution emphasizes community-based support for non-Azure installations.
- Microsoft retains strict control over the base image, differentiating from community-driven distributions.