Microsoft delivers on promise: European sovereignty gets technical backbone

Last month, we wrote about a clear change of direction: Microsoft emphatically opts for Europe. It is now clear that this is not just words. With the announcement of a comprehensive sovereign cloud suite shows Microsoft that they take that promise seriously. And that is good news for European organizations that want to keep a grip on their data, processes and technology.

‍Sovereign cloud, but workable

The crux of Microsoft's announcement? A range of solutions that enable European companies and governments to work securely in the cloud without sacrificing compliance, control, or collaboration. No extra infrastructure or new silos, but extensions to the platform you already rely on. That means: you will continue to work with Azure and Microsoft 365, but fully in line with European rules and values.

What is a sovereign cloud and why is Microsoft doing it now?

Microsoft took a big step this month: it now offers a complete sovereign cloud offering specifically for Europe. This makes digital sovereignty concrete and workable.

Sovereign cloud means that your data, processes and access are fully managed within Europe under European control, according to European legislation.

This is not only important for governments and critical sectors. Companies that are active in healthcare, financial services or industry also benefit from better control and compliance.

Microsoft's new European sovereign cloud suite: 4 building blocks

Microsoft will continue to provide Azure and Microsoft 365, with specific additions for those who want to control data and technology in Europe.

1. Sovereign Public Cloud

· Data remains physical in Europe

· Access is monitored by Data Guardian

· Actions are transparently logged and transparent

2. External Key Management

· Organizations maintain their own control over encryption keys

· Keys can be managed on-premises or via European partners

3. Sovereign Private Cloud

· Protected Azure environment for added security

· Full data control for sensitive sectors

4. Partner Clouds with local players

· Cooperation with European partners such as Bleu (FR) and Delos (DE)

· National cloud solutions under local supervision

What does this mean for your organization?

With this step, Microsoft is making it easier to align cloud strategies with European legislation, local control and industry-specific requirements. Especially for sectors such as government, healthcare and financial services, this offers a solid basis for digital innovation with fewer concerns about compliance.

The movement is clear: the cloud no longer has to be “all or nothing”.

This move by Microsoft creates space for hybrid strategies that suit your people, processes and goals

Can I continue to work with a sovereign cloud with Azure?

Answer: Yes. It remains Azure, but in a configuration that fits better legally, technically and operationally within European frameworks.

You benefit from:

· Better compliance (think AVG, NIS2, sectoral standards)

· Local anchoring of data & processes

· The assurance that Microsoft itself does not have access to sensitive data without your permission

How does TeamValue help you with this?

TeamValue helps organizations with:

· Inventory of compliance requirements

· Architecture for Overeign-Ready Cloud Models

· Deployment in Azure with governance by design

· Integrating Data Guardian, Key Vault, and Partner Solutions

Want to know more or need advice?

We are happy to help you turn these new opportunities into a future-proof approach.

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📞 Or call directly: 038 202 2 306