Definition
Azure Functions is a serverless compute service offered by Microsoft Azure that allows developers to run small pieces of code, called functions, without needing to manage the underlying infrastructure. These functions are event driven, meaning they execute in response to specific triggers such as HTTP requests, timer events, or changes in Azure services. This model simplifies application development by abstracting away server provisioning and scaling, enabling focus on writing code. For instance, a function could automatically resize an uploaded image whenever a new file appears in an Azure Blob Storage container. Unlike traditional virtual machines, Azure Functions abstracts away the operating system and runtime environment, focusing solely on the code execution. This concept is frequently encountered in cloud computing discussions and is relevant for certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect and CCSP.