During the Microsoft Ignite conference, which caters to developers and IT professionals, Dell unveiled a range of new interconnected services. These services are designed to streamline the deployment of innovative AI and enhance security, especially on Microsoft’s Copilot+ PCs, by eliminating uncertainty or security issues.
Dell takes over the supervision of APEX File Storage for Azure
While APEX File Storage has been accessible on Azure for some time, customers will now have the option for Dell to fully oversee its management, starting with a public preview in the first half of 2025. In contrast to Dell’s customer-managed service, APEX File Storage can function as an Azure-native ISV service.
Microsoft Azure administrators will also be able to incorporate Dell APEX Protection services. APEX Protection Services utilize Zero Trust principles, machine learning, analytics, and forensic tools to fortify critical data against ransomware. The release of Dell APEX Protection services for Microsoft Azure is scheduled for the first half of 2025.
Copilot and Azure AI services aim to streamline the adoption of AI, particularly on Microsoft’s AI PCs
As Microsoft continues to promote its Copilot AI assistant and Copilot+ PCs, Dell has introduced corresponding offerings: Dell Services for Microsoft Copilot Studio (low code) and Azure AI Studio (pro code).
These services are designed to assist customers in leveraging AI capabilities based on their specific needs and skill levels. They help identify use cases and aid in creating customized Copilots or other AI solutions. The primary objective is to offer frameworks that simplify the initiation of AI projects.
For Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC, Dell Accelerator Services for Copilot+ PCs furnish “optimized usage recommendations” rooted in employee persona categories and organizational objectives. It also provides a platform for exploring AI, ranging from insights on how NPU utilization affects the client’s Al workloads to suggestions for optimizing Windows 11 configurations and Microsoft Intune management for IT teams.
Dell Vice President of Professional Services Scott Bils highlighted the aim to “enhance the Copilot+ experience and results” during a news briefing on Nov. 13.
SEE: Checklist: Securing Windows 11 systems (TechRepublic Premium)
Security services integrated with existing APEX and MDR offerings
Additionally, Dell announced new security services. Dell APEX Protection Services for MS Azure is now accessible as a Dell Managed service. APEX protection encompasses secure storage, encryption, MFA, AI analytics for detecting and recovering from attacks, and a digital vault for safeguarding critical data.
According to Dell Senior Vice President of ISG and Telecom Product Marketing Varun Chhabra, Dell APEX Protection Services for MS Azure provides a “simplified approach to securing and protecting critical data from ransomware and cyber threats through a fortified digital vault in Azure.”
Lastly, Dell’s Managed Detection and Response now collaborates with Microsoft Defender XDR, marking an expansion of Dell’s existing security consultancy and advisory solutions tailored for Windows environments.
Dell has coupled this cutting-edge capability with certified security experts who assist customers in deploying and implementing the Microsoft Defender XDR solution, while also providing support in case of a security breach, Bils added.
Dell incorporates support with CMMC defense certification
Dell has introduced the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification alignment for U.S. federal contractors for Microsoft. This certification service aids companies in complying with the DoD CMMC standard. CMMC version 2.0 is set to launch in 2025 and will be included in DOD contracts beginning in December 2024. This service assists companies in outlining a strategy to adhere to the requirements of version 2.0.
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