Azure Local solutions start with the Azure Local Solutions Hardware Catalog—a comprehensive, validated repository of hardware options designed to simplify your journey into hybrid computing. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into what the catalog offers, why it matters, and how it can transform your IT operations.
What is Azure Local?
Before we continue, a quick reminder: Azure Local is a hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI) solution that enables you to run virtualized Windows and Linux workloads, containers, and select Azure services on your own hardware. Powered by Azure Arc, it integrates seamlessly with the Azure portal for centralized management, monitoring, backups via Azure Backup, and disaster.
Unlike traditional on-premises setups, Azure Local shifts to a subscription-based model (per-core licensing), allowing you to own the hardware while leveraging cloud economics. It’s flexible too: scale from a single-node edge device to multi-node clusters handling multi-petabyte storage. But to get started, you need compatible hardware—and that’s where the catalog shines.
Inside the Azure Local Hardware Catalog
The Azure Local Solutions Hardware Catalog is your one-stop shop for discovering validated hardware from Microsoft’s trusted partners. Accessible via the Azure Local Solutions portal, it features hundreds of pre-tested configurations, ensuring compatibility and performance right out of the box. No more guesswork on drivers, firmware, or OS pre-installation—everything is certified to run Azure Local version 2411 (and beyond).
Key features of the catalog include:
- Search and Filter Tools: Easily narrow down options by vendor, form factor (e.g., rack, tower, micro, or rugged), compute/storage capacity, or solution category.
- Sizing Tool Integration: Pair your hardware selection with Microsoft’s free sizer to estimate requirements based on workloads like VMs, AKS containers, or Azure Virtual Desktop.
- Partner Spotlights: Detailed specs, pricing guidance (via partners), and deployment docs for each entry.
As of late 2025, the catalog boasts over 100 platforms, with more low-spec, budget-friendly options (like micro and industrial hardware) rolling out regularly.
Solution Categories: Tailored for Every Need
Not all deployments are created equal, and the catalog smartly categorizes options into three tiers to match your expertise, budget, and integration preferences. Here’s a breakdown:
| Category | Description | Best For | Update Management | Flexibility Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier Solutions | Fully turnkey systems pre-engineered and pre-integrated by partners. Includes automated HCI setup, single-point support, and optimized firmware. | Enterprises seeking minimal setup and maximum reliability. | Fully managed by partner; seamless Azure updates. | Low—preconfigured for quick wins. |
| Integrated Systems | Vendor-validated hardware bundles tested 2-4 times yearly. OS pre-installed; minor tweaks for drivers/firmware may be needed. | Mid-sized teams wanting balance between ease and customization. | Mostly automated; occasional manual hardware updates. | Medium—some configuration freedom. |
| Validated Nodes | Basic certified components (CPUs, storage, etc.) for DIY builds or vendor kits. Install OS yourself. | Advanced users or custom setups on a budget. | Manual for hardware; Azure handles software. | High—build from scratch or mix/match. |
This structure ensures there’s something for everyone, from edge deployments in retail stores to petabyte-scale data centers.
Spotlight on Key Hardware Partners and Offerings
The catalog draws from a robust ecosystem of Microsoft hardware partners, each bringing unique strengths. Here’s a curated selection of standout options:
- Lenovo MX System: ThinkAgile MX Premier solutions are fully engineered, jointly validated and integrated solutions that can extend Azure Arc enabled infrastructure from hybrid multi-cloud environments to datacenter and at the edge with the flexibility to help you build and operate applications and services.
- Dell AX System: Unlock the potential of a Premier Solution for Azure local with Dell AX System for Azure Local. Designed to enhance automation and integration, it empowers your organization to innovate boldly and optimize your Azure adaptive cloud.
- DataON: DataON AZS Integrated Systems for Azure Local deliver the fastest time-to-value through the convenience of pre-installed software, integrated drivers, and firmware updates. Simple to deploy and procure, they are ideal for customers who require turnkey solutions with little deployment effort from IT staff.
- HPE ProLiant for Azure Local: HPE ProLiant solutions for Azure Local deliver a secure, scalable foundation for running Azure services at the edge, in the data center, or across distributed sites.
- Other Notables: , Supermicro’s high-density racks, Fujitsu’s efficient towers, and ASUS/Blue Chip for compact edge appliances.
Why Choose from the Azure Local Catalog?
Opting for catalog hardware isn’t just about compatibility—it’s a strategic move:
- Security by Default: All solutions include advanced protections, like hardware root-of-trust.
- Hybrid Benefits: Leverage Azure Hybrid Benefit for cost savings on Windows/SQL Server licenses.
- Simplified Operations: Azure tools handle provisioning, updates, and monitoring from the portal—no silos.
- Future-Proofing: Supports bursting to Azure for overflow capacity and expanded services like AKS or Azure Virtual Desktop.
In a world where data sovereignty and low-latency matter, the catalog empowers you to deploy Azure services on-premises without compromising on cloud agility.
Getting Started: Your Next Steps
Ready to build your hybrid future? Head to the Azure Local Solutions Catalog to browse options. Start with the sizing tool, consult a partner for quotes, or spin up a free sandbox via Azure Arc Jumpstart (just need an Azure subscription). For production, review prerequisites like networking and ensure your hardware meets the one-machine minimum (plus SSD).
Whether you’re a startup eyeing edge computing or an enterprise consolidating data centers, the Azure Local Hardware Catalog is more than a list—it’s a blueprint for innovation.
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The information contained in the posts in this blog site is for general information purposes only. The information in this post "Azure Local Solutions Hardware Catalog" is provided by "Lee Harrison's Technical Blog" and whilst we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the post for any purpose. Furthermore, it is always recommended that you test any related changes to your environments on non-production systems and always have a robust backup strategy in place.