Can I just buy one component of Azure Sphere—the Azure Sphere–certified MCU chip, the Azure Sphere OS, or Azure Sphere Security Service? Azure Sphere components are tightly integrated and sold together at a single, one-time cost—delivering a highly secure solution for building connected devices and scaling your IoT deployment.

Does Microsoft manufacture Azure Sphere chips? Azure Sphere works with a diverse group of expert hardware manufacturers and their broad ecosystem of vendors to design specialized Azure Sphere–certified chips that meet the needs of various markets. Extensive research and testing contribute to the development of the security technology and architecture for each chip.

Does Azure Sphere require an Azure subscription or monthly payments? Azure Sphere does not require you to pay any ongoing fees. The one-time cost you pay for your MCU chip includes access to the Azure Sphere OS and Azure Sphere Security Service, plus OS updates for the lifetime of your chip.

Can Azure Sphere help me secure my existing devices? If you already have connection-capable devices and equipment deployed within your organization, or if you’re considering connecting devices for the first time, Azure Sphere can help you protect your devices with guardian modules. Guardian modules are physical attachments that require little or no equipment redesign. They process data and control equipment without ever exposing the equipment to the network. Guardian modules protect your operational equipment from disabling attacks, simplify device retrofit projects, and boost efficiency through over-the-air (OTA) updates and IoT connectivity.

Does my entire environment need to be on Azure to use Azure Sphere? Azure Sphere is engineered to integrate with any cloud service, public or private. You can connect to other clouds for app data while running Azure Sphere or optimize efficiencies by using Azure Sphere alongside Visual Studio and Azure IoT.

How does Azure Sphere relate to Windows IoT? Azure Sphere provides a complement to Windows IoT. Windows IoT provides a best-in-class solution for devices with MPU-class processing power or rich user experiences. Azure Sphere fortifies IoT devices with Microsoft security innovations and expertise in hardware, software, and the cloud.