Responsible Infrastructure at Hyperscale: Managing the Full Lifecycle of Azure Hardware
Microsoft, Wednesday, September 30th, 2026
Azure details denser, more efficient datacenter hardware and new Circular Centers in Wales and Sydney for reusing retired equipment.
Microsoft explains how Azure deploys more capable infrastructure while responsibly managing hardware it replaces.
Since 2014, cores per rack have risen about 13-fold while power needed for the same task fell roughly 90%, and Cobalt 200 delivers up to 50% more performance than Cobalt 100.
When equipment leaves service, Microsoft Circular Centers reuse, refurbish and recycle components; new centers in Newport, Wales and Sydney, Australia extend the program across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific.