In this session we will dive deep into the custom hardware, software, and architecture of Azure’s purpose-built cloud infrastructure, including Azure Maia and Azure Cobalt silicon. We will also discuss how end-to-end systems optimization, thoughtful codesign of hardware and software, and advanced datacenter technologies in cooling, power, and network – form the powerful and reliable foundation of the Copilot Stack that empowers your innovations in the era of AI.
Saurabh Dighe
CVP, Strategic Plan & Arch
Saurabh leads the hardware strategic planning and architecture organization for the Microsoft Cloud and is responsible for the establishment of long-term hardware and technology roadmaps for cloud services, overseeing hardware strategic planning, and architecture/technology pathfinding to architect future generations of cloud silicon and systems.
Saurabh brings extensive expertise in the semiconductor industry guiding systems architecture, platform strategy and competitive analysis. He has driven the transformation of hardware roadmaps for Microsoft Azure, enabling leadership silicon and systems infrastructure, and is deeply involved in the overall execution of hardware platforms/SKUs, as well as Microsoft’s silicon investments and cloud infrastructure operations.
Previously, Saurabh spent 15 years at Intel as a research scientist and later in the CPU design group.
Saurabh received his bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering from the University of Mumbai and a master’s degree in computer engineering from the University of Minnesota.
Saurabh brings extensive expertise in the semiconductor industry guiding systems architecture, platform strategy and competitive analysis. He has driven the transformation of hardware roadmaps for Microsoft Azure, enabling leadership silicon and systems infrastructure, and is deeply involved in the overall execution of hardware platforms/SKUs, as well as Microsoft’s silicon investments and cloud infrastructure operations.
Previously, Saurabh spent 15 years at Intel as a research scientist and later in the CPU design group.
Saurabh received his bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering from the University of Mumbai and a master’s degree in computer engineering from the University of Minnesota.
Gohar Waqar
VP Hardware Infrastructure and Fundamentals Engineering
Gohar leads the Infrastructure Product development, Hardware Fleet Management and Quality for Azure. Technology executive with 28+ years of experience developing organizations and cutting edge hardware products. Held several roles over the career leading to Chief Engineer for multiple products showcasing disruptive and innovative technologies. Proven track record for architecting a scalable, predictable and repeatable development methodology for building leadership high volume products.