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AZ564543 - Public preview: Azure Linux 4.0 for Azure Virtual Machines and VM Scale Sets

Azure Updates

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Azure update ID

564543

View in Azure Updates

Published

Jun 2, 2026

Status

In preview

Timeline

  • June 2026
    Preview

Product

Linux Virtual Machines
Azure Linux

Tag

Microsoft Build
Open Source
Services

Category

Compute

Description

Azure Linux 4.0, Microsoft's first-party Linux distribution purpose-built for Azure, is now available in public preview for Azure Virtual Machines and VM Scale Sets. It brings a modernized stack — including Linux kernel 6.18 LTS, dnf5 package manager, glibc 2.42, OpenSSL 3.5, and Python 3.14 — optimized for Azure compute, storage, and networking. It delivers faster VM startup and provisioning with a reduced package footprint and a security-first design. 

  Key highlights: 

  • Azure-tuned kernel — Linux 6.18 LTS with improved Hyper-V integration, GPU/AI accelerator support, and new hardware drivers 
  • Secure by default — Secure Boot, Trusted Launch, SELinux support, kernel hardening, and SBOMs published with target SLSA Level 3 
  • Minimal footprint — Ships only the packages required for cloud workloads, reducing attack surface from day one 
  • No additional OS licensing cost — Included with Azure compute; no separate OS licensing fees or support contracts 
  • Microsoft-owned supply chain — From kernel to CVE response, enabling fast-track Critical/High CVE patches with monthly security updates 
  • Predictable lifecycle —full support with LTS kernel and annual HWE kernel updates for new hardware platforms 
  • Container images — Base, and distroless images available on Microsoft Container Registry (MCR)

 Learn more:

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