Microsoft Announces Data Storage Plans In Clouds For EU Customers

Microsoft's Chief Privacy Officer, Julie Brill (photo: x @JulieSbrill)

Microsoft announced on Thursday 11 January that cloud subscribers in the European Union will be able to process and store all personal data in the region as part of a planned gradual launch.

This technology company has begun providing data storage and processing capabilities in the EU following privacy and security regulations. Amazon Web Services (AWS) has also stated in October that it will allow data storage on servers located in the EU.

Microsoft previously allowed processing of some data in the region. With current steps, it will now include data contained in the log generated by the system, which is generated automatically when using its services.

For large companies, data storage is becoming very large and distributed in many countries making it difficult for them to understand where their data is and whether to comply with privacy regulations.

"Soon, this year, Microsoft will launch a next phase that will handle the temporary data transfer storage needed for technical support interactions," Microsoft Chief Privacy Officer Julie Brill said in a blog post.

"The company also plans to offer a paid support option that will provide an initial technical response from within the EU," added Brill.