>>Further to last:
>>
>>You can specify the number of instances in Visual Studio but then upload the modified package to change the actual deployment on the cloud. Bit cumbersome but I guess not something you would do often
>>
>>Update : Just found a simpler way. You can change the number of instances simply by editing the configuration in the management portal......
>
>Thanks, but, this seems like highly proprietary infrastructure. With the one I was requested information about, under a VM structure, I would benefit of a VPN TS access to a server, in VM mode, and would be able to do anything I would mostly do as if I would sit directly on the server. The only difference is that it would be shared across several clients. But, I would be able to get into IIS, adjust my own settings, go in SSMS, setup my database in the way I want, install desktop applications (robots) serving the Web sites, do backups on frequent basis elsewhere on the same drive, configured web.config as I wish, etc. And, then, I would benefit of FTP access as well to upload and download my stuff.


But if you don't use Azure, you aren't a monthly revenue stream for Microsoft, which is Microsoft's prime motivation.

FWIW I've done the math for several likely projects I will be involved in over the next couple of years - Purchasing hardware (with resultant depreciation write-offs and asset value) and software plus maintenenace plus internet access comes out considerably less expensive than having *very* significant recurring monthly expenses.

It's nice to have full control of your programs and data too.