Azure Could Save Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) From the Death of Windows

Azure powering Oracle

Under the Oracle Corporation (NASDAQ:ORCL) deal, a number of the enterprise software maker’s products like Java and Oracle Database will be available for use in Azure. This brings Oracle into more direct competition with its upstart rival salesforce.com, inc. (NYSE:CRM).

salesforce.com, inc. (NYSE:CRM) has long been seen as a play on cloud computing. From its early days, the company has been devoted to selling cloud-based software solutions, mostly to Oracle Corporation (NASDAQ:ORCL)’s customers.

In recent years, the two companies have been very public about their feud. Oracle’s CEO Larry Ellison has openly criticized Salesforce’s business, while salesforce.com, inc. (NYSE:CRM)’s Marc Benioff has often returned the favor.

Ironically, this week marks a shift in the relationship between the two companies. Oracle Corporation (NASDAQ:ORCL) and Salesforce have unveiled a partnership that will allow their clients to share data between their competing products.

Ultimately, the deal could benefit both companies. In theory, the companies’ customers may be more likely to purchase additional services if they’re free to use them in greater ways.

Although both Oracle and salesforce.com, inc. (NYSE:CRM) would probably prefer that their customers stuck only to their products, that’s likely an unrealistic expectation. By working together, they can expand the size of the available market.

The future of Microsoft

Microsoft’s deal with Oracle Corporation (NASDAQ:ORCL) prompted a relatively large rally for the company’s stock, and rightfully so. Although the company’s Windows business looks to be in a state of inevitable decline, Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT)’s cloud-based initiatives could keep the company performing well into the future.

Unlike Windows, Azure faces some tough competitors like Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) and Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG). But the recent deal with Oracle suggests that Microsoft is well positioned to win the cloud wars.

The article Azure Could Save Microsoft From the Death of Windows originally appeared on Fool.com.

Salvatore “Sam” is a member of The Motley Fool Blog Network — entries represent the personal opinion of the blogger and are not formally edited.

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