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Request for Clarification on Azure Lab Services Backend API Post-Retirement Availability

Nak-1661 20 Reputation points
2024-11-21T06:59:06.05+00:00

Hello Azure Community,,

I recently reached out to Microsoft Support regarding the Azure Lab Services backend API and its usability post-retirement. The response I received stated:

“Yes, the Azure Lab Services backend API can still be utilized for automation and management tasks even after Azure Lab Services has been retired. This API allows you to automate various tasks such as provisioning and managing virtual machines, setting up environments, and monitoring usage and costs.”

However, this seems to conflict with the official Azure Lab Services Retirement Guide, which clearly states:

“Azure Lab Services will be retired on June 28, 2027. After this date, the service will no longer be available, and all associated resources will be deleted.”

My understanding is that the backend API is tightly integrated with the Azure Lab Services infrastructure. If the service is no longer available, the API would logically become non-functional. The official documentation does not mention any plan to keep the backend API operational post-retirement, and it instead recommends transitioning to other services like Azure DevTest Labs, Azure Virtual Desktop, or Windows 365 Cloud PC.

I am looking for clarification on the following:

  1. Will the Azure Lab Services backend API remain functional after the service’s retirement date?
  2. If yes, are there any specific resources or plans to ensure its continued operation?
  3. If no, should organizations using the API prepare to transition entirely to alternative solutions before June 28, 2027?

I believe this is an important matter for many users relying on Azure Lab Services for automation and management tasks. Any insights or official clarification from Microsoft would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks

Nak

Azure Lab Services
Azure Lab Services
An Azure service that is used to set up labs for classrooms, trials, development and testing, and other scenarios.
300 questions
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  1. Prrudram-MSFT 27,251 Reputation points
    2024-11-21T13:28:08.62+00:00

    Hello @Nak-1661

    I understand your concern regarding the conflicting information about the Azure Lab Services backend API post-retirement. Based on the information I found, it appears that the official stance is that Azure Lab Services, including its backend API, will be retired on June 28, 2027. After this date, the service will no longer be available, and all associated resources will be deleted

    Given this, it is logical to conclude that the backend API, which is tightly integrated with the Azure Lab Services infrastructure, will also become non-functional post-retirement. The official documentation does not mention any plans to keep the backend API operational after the service's retirement. Instead, it recommends transitioning to alternative solutions such as Azure DevTest Labs, Azure Virtual Desktop, or Windows 365 Cloud PC. To address your specific questions:

    1. Will the Azure Lab Services backend API remain functional after the service’s retirement date? No, it is unlikely that the backend API will remain functional after the retirement date as the entire service, including all associated resources, will be deleted.
    2. Are there any specific resources or plans to ensure its continued operation? There are no indications or official plans to keep the backend API operational post-retirement. The focus is on transitioning to alternative solutions.
    3. Should organizations using the API prepare to transition entirely to alternative solutions before June 28, 2027? Yes, organizations should prepare to transition to alternative solutions such as Azure DevTest Labs, Azure Virtual Desktop, or Windows 365 Cloud PC before the retirement date to avoid any disruptions in their automation and management tasks.

    I hope this clarifies your concerns. If you need further assistance or have more questions, feel free to ask!

    If I have answered your question, please accept this as answer as a token of appreciation and don't forget to thumbs up for "Was it helpful"!

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