Queries Regarding Azure AI Vision Disconnected Container

Question

Our team is currently exploring the usage of Azure AI Vision in disconnected environments, and we have several questions regarding the implementation and management of disconnected containers. Below are our inquiries in detail:

Lost License Mount Point: In the event that the license mount point is lost for a disconnected container, we are curious about the potential implications. Specifically, how would the loss of this mount point affect the functionality and operation of the container? Are there any steps we can take to mitigate the impact of such a scenario?

1. Running Two Containers with Single Disconnected License:
   a. Separate Mount Points for Shared Services: Is it feasible to run two containers with separate mount points while utilizing the same services? For example, if we have two instances of a container running on different machines but serving the same application, can we use a single disconnected license for both instances?
   b. Containers in Separate Virtual Networks: Additionally, we are interested in understanding the feasibility of running containers in separate Virtual Networks without any interconnectivity. Would it be possible to deploy containers in such a manner while still utilizing a single disconnected license for all instances?
2. Cost of Offline Licensing: We would like to inquire about any cost-effective alternatives to annual subscriptions for offline licensing. Are there any flexible licensing options available for organizations with intermittent or limited connectivity requirements?
   

Resolution for Unfulfilled Use Case: Lastly, we are seeking clarification on the available options if our use case is not met after purchasing the license for disconnected containers. Is it possible to convert from a disconnected subscription to a regular one, or request a refund if the container does not fulfill our requirements?

Answer 1

@Niket Kumar Singh Thanks for reaching out to us, I would recommend you raising a support ticket to discuss with support team with more details of your case and contact with sales team if needed.

If you have no support plan, we are happy to enable you a free support ticket for this case.

To answer this question generally -

1. Lost License Mount Point: The loss of a license mount point could disrupt the operation of your container as it needs this to validate the operation. It's important to ensure that your infrastructure is robust and that you have a backup and recovery plan in place.
2. Running Two Containers with Single Disconnected License: a. Separate Mount Points for Shared Services: Typically, a license is tied to a specific container, and each container requires its own license. It may not be possible to run two containers using a single license. b. Containers in Separate Virtual Networks: The license is typically tied to a container instance rather than the network on which it is deployed. However, running containers on separate networks without interconnectivity could pose other challenges.
3. Cost of Offline Licensing: Azure offers various licensing options, including pay-as-you-go and reserved instances. For more specific pricing, you should reach out to the Azure sales team.
4. Resolution for Unfulfilled Use Case: Azure does have a customer service and support team to handle such situations. However, the specifics would depend on your contract or agreement with Azure.

I hope this helps, please let me know if you need a support ticket or other questions.

Regards,

Yutong

Answer 2

Hi YutongTie-MSFT,

We have some queries over the above provided information on point 3rd and 4th.

1. Cost of Offline Licensing: Azure offers various licensing options, including pay-as-you-go and reserved instances. For more specific pricing, you should reach out to the Azure sales team.

2. Resolution for Unfulfilled Use Case: Azure does have a customer service and support team to handle such situations. However, the specifics would depend on your contract or agreement with Azure.

The above pricing is all about licensing cost or compute cost for using the disconnected container? Suppose if i have to use 2 containers in 2 different virtual networks, do I need to purchase 2 separate licenses with the pricing given above? If yes, kindly share the pricing information or details or screenshot with the link.

Once we purchase the licenses and after 6 months, can we switch these licenses back to normal (Connected) container? If not possible, what are the other options available?