Microsoft Ignite - key developments and innovations

On Thursday, Nov. 21, we brought the latest updates from Microsoft Ignite to our customers and associates. While our colleague Eric Liket reported live from Ignite in Chicago, our colleagues and subject matter experts Ralph Zeegers, Aucke Bos, Ferry Braeken, Allard Beerthuizen, and Roy van de Kamp explored the impact of these innovations for organizations in an interactive table discussion in the studio in Eindhoven. Topics such as Copilot, AI Foundry, Azure Arc, and Security Copilot were discussed in detail.

Microsoft Ignite live update session highlights

Topics covered during the session included:

Copilot and Agents

The future of productivity lies in Copilot, integrated into Microsoft 365 applications such as Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook. This smart assistant performs specific tasks, such as automatically sending emails, creating summaries and more. With the introduction of Agents, it becomes possible to automate specific workflows and tasks even further.

AI Foundry & Trustworthy AI

With AI Foundry, Microsoft introduced a collection of powerful tools for training language models and applying AI solutions within organizations. In addition, the importance of reliable AI was discussed, with Microsoft's initiatives around security and vulnerabilities of AI models taking center stage.

Azure Arc & Azure Local

Azure Arc simplifies hybrid cloud management by integrating monitoring, security and patch management into a single platform. With Azure Local, Microsoft targets organizations that want to leverage local data centers while benefiting from low latency and performance comparable to the cloud.

Windows Server 2025

The new version of Windows Server introduces hot patching, allowing organizations to make updates without downtime. This is a huge step forward in hybrid cloud integration, with improved security and higher efficiency.

Security Copilot & Zero Trust Framework

Security Copilot was presented as an essential tool for improved security within Microsoft 365, with features for vulnerability detection and advanced threat hunting. It also emphasized the importance of a Zero Trust Framework, which focuses on identity security and network access.

Microsoft Fabric & Data Governance

With Fabric , Microsoft is betting on a mature data platform that brings together transactional and analytical data. Tools such as Microsoft Purview help organizations manage, classify and secure data in an increasingly data-driven world.

Windows 365 Link & Windows 11 Updates

With Windows 365 Link, Microsoft will introduce a thin client solution in April 2025 that will allow organizations to cost-effectively and securely work entirely in the cloud. Additionally, enhancements to Windows 11, such as Administration Protection and Windows Search, were highlighted that further improve both security and ease of use.