And, as Sanders said, Linux and open-source are "where the customers are." So, what choices does Microsoft offer corporate Linux users on Azure? Well, first you can bring your own Linux distribution.

A vulnerability nicknamed "Stack Clash" allows an attacker to gain root privileges on a UNIX system and take over vulnerable machines.

For the first time, Microsoft has released its own Linux kernel in a new Linux-based product: Azure Sphere.

An ongoing attack campaign has compromised thousands of Linux and Unix servers by stealing credentials and redirecting website visitors to malicious content, according to an ESET report.

The product strategy calls for gradually bringing the Windows and Linux/Unix access-control products that each firm has separately offered under a common management platform and console.