Azure Networking is Microsoft's comprehensive suite of cloud networking services that enable secure connectivity, traffic management, and network security for resources deployed in Azure. Operating across 60+ global regions with a high-performance backbone network, Azure networking provides the foundation for hybrid cloud architectures, application delivery, and zero-trust security models. A critical 2026 change: on March 31, 2026, newly created virtual networks will default to private subnets, requiring explicit outbound connectivity methods (NAT Gateway, Load Balancer, or Private Endpoints) rather than default internet access—a shift toward more secure, intentional network design.