Windows Azure New Active Authentication service offers multi-factor authentication for security and compliance

Windows Azure enhanced security and storage options.

New Active Authentication service offers multi-factor authentication for security and compliance.

Windows Azure Active Authentication, now available in preview, adds a critical second layer of security to authenticate access to Windows Azure, Microsoft Online Services like Microsoft Office 365 and Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online, and third-party cloud services.

How it works
When users sign in, they will be prompted to authenticate by using the Active Authentication mobile app or by responding to an automated phone call or text message. Users can choose the method that works best for them; support for multiple methods ensures that additional authentication is always available. For more information on Active Authentication, please visit the Identity webpage.

Getting started
Enable Active Authentication for Windows Azure Active Directory identities, and users will be prompted to set up additional authentication the next time they sign in. A software development kit is available for direct integration with your cloud services. Learn more at Using multi-factor authentication with Windows Azure AD.

Pricing
Per-user and per-authentication billing options are offered. During preview, both billing options will be discounted 50 percent off the general availability price, as noted in the table below. Please visit the Pricing Details webpage for more information.

Users Authentications
Price (preview1) $1.00
per user $1.00
per 10 authentications
Price (general availability2) $2.00
per user $2.00
per 10 authentications
1Active Authentication is currently in preview, and these prices include a 50 percent preview discount.
2The general availability date has not yet been announced.

Get a free 20-MB SQL database to power your Mobile Services and Web Sites.

We know that customers developing mobile and web apps need to store relational data in the cloud. We also understand that, during development and testing, it’s helpful to have a free data option. That’s why we’re happy to announce that every Windows Azure subscription will receive a free 20-MB Windows Azure SQL Database that can be used with Windows Azure Mobile Services or Web Sites.

Getting started
When you create a new Mobile Service or Web Site, follow the Custom Create flow and you’ll find the option to a create a New Free 20 MB Windows Azure SQL Database in the database dropdown. When you select that option, you’ll be able to enjoy the free 20-MB SQL database for as long as your data needs do not exceed 20 MB.
• To get started building apps for the Android, iOS, and Windows operating systems, visit the Mobile Developer Center.
• To get started building web sites and apps, visit the Microsoft.NET, Node.js, Java, PHP, or Python developer centers.

Pricing
You receive one free 20-MB SQL database per Windows Azure subscription, to be used with Mobile Services or Web Sites. Multiple Mobile Services or Web Sites can be associated with the same free 20-MB SQL database. If your data needs exceed 20 MB, lift the cap on the ‘SCALE’ tab and published rates will apply.

Thank you,

Windows Azure Team