How Azure Copilot works

  • 5 minutes

Azure Copilot works through a conversation. You enter a prompt that describes what you want, and throughout the conversation Azure Copilot answers questions, generates queries, performs tasks, and safely acts on your behalf. It makes high-quality recommendations and takes actions while respecting your organization's policies and your privacy.

Start a conversation

To use Azure Copilot in the portal, sign in to the Azure portal and select the Copilot icon in the page header to open the Copilot pane. You can then enter your prompts in the text box or try one of the suggested prompts.

Screenshot of the Copilot icon and pane in the Azure portal.

For a larger, immersive experience, select the fullscreen icon in the Copilot pane. Fullscreen mode gives you more space to view responses, enter prompts, and manage multiple conversations.

When you work with a specific service or resource, you might see suggested prompts near the top of a pane. These suggestions are tailored to the context you're working in, which helps you get started quickly.

Tip

Because you express your goals in natural language, learning to write clear, specific prompts helps you get better results from Azure Copilot.

Your permissions stay in control

Azure Copilot operates within your existing permissions. It can access only the resources that you have permission to access, and it can take only the actions that you have permission to perform. For any action, your confirmation is required before Azure Copilot proceeds.

This model means Azure Copilot never elevates your access or bypasses your organization's policies. It works as an assistant within the same boundaries you already have through Azure role-based access control (RBAC), so you stay in control of what happens in your environment.

Responsible AI

Microsoft is committed to ensuring that its AI systems are guided by its AI principles and Responsible AI Standard. These principles include empowering customers to use these systems effectively and in line with their intended uses. Microsoft's approach to responsible AI continues to evolve to address emerging issues proactively.