Azure Container Networking icon

Azure Container Networking

Security Software

By @Azure
v1.8.7Sep 9, 2026
azure-cns-windows-amd64-v1.8.7.zip32.4 MB
azure-cns-windows-arm64-v1.8.7.zip29.8 MB
azure-npm-windows-amd64-v1.8.7.zip33.1 MB
azure-npm-windows-arm64-v1.8.7.zip30.8 MB
azure-vnet-cni-baremetal-windows-amd64-v1.8.7.zip27.3 MB
azure-vnet-cni-baremetal-windows-arm64-v1.8.7.zip25.1 MB
azure-vnet-cni-multitenancy-windows-amd64-v1.8.7.zip46.1 MB
azure-vnet-cni-multitenancy-windows-arm64-v1.8.7.zip42.3 MB
azure-vnet-cni-overlay-dualstack-windows-amd64-v1.8.7.zip72.9 MB
azure-vnet-cni-overlay-dualstack-windows-arm64-v1.8.7.zip67.0 MB
azure-vnet-cni-overlay-windows-amd64-v1.8.7.zip91.7 MB
azure-vnet-cni-overlay-windows-arm64-v1.8.7.zip84.2 MB

Azure Container Networking is an open-source suite of networking and IPAM plugins that connects Linux and Windows Kubernetes containers directly to Azure Virtual Networks, utilizing Azure Software Defined Networking capabilities.

Technical Overview of Azure Container Networking

The solution compiles directly into native binaries via Go and Makefile automation, functioning as portable plugins rather than traditional installer packages. Execution speed relies on direct kernel and network integration, eliminating virtualization overhead by assigning native Azure VNET IP addresses to pods. As a FOSS solution, it delivers transparent container SDN integration with direct source auditing and full conformance testing.

Core Features of Azure Container Networking

  • Azure VNET connectivity attaches Kubernetes containers directly into native Azure Virtual Network subnets.
  • Integrated IPAM plugins handle dynamic IP address assignment and lifecycle management from Azure address spaces.
  • Network Policy Manager enforces Kubernetes network security policies across Linux and Windows Server environments.
  • Cilium integration support powers next-generation datapaths with high-efficiency eBPF networking capabilities.

System Compatibility & Updates

Supported operating systems include Linux and Windows (including Windows Server 2022) across x86_64 (amd64) and ARM64 architectures. Recent updates fixed a critical infinite loop bug in the Device Plugin triggered by stale socket watcher states.