What’s the News?
On 6th September 2025, Microsoft’s cloud service, called Azure, became slow. This happened because some [[undersea::Done below the sea]] internet cables in the Red Sea were cut. These cables connect Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. When they were damaged, people got slower internet, video calls stopped working well, and apps took more time to load. Engineers quickly sent data through other routes, but the event showed how much we need the cables under the sea.
What Is Microsoft Cloud?
Microsoft Azure is a cloud service. A cloud is not in the sky. It is a group of very strong computers that store and manage data. Instead of saving all your photos or videos on your own phone, they can stay in the cloud. You can then open them anywhere on the internet.
To reach the cloud, data must travel fast across the world. This happens through [[submarine:: ship that can travel underwater]] cables. These are long fibre-optic wires, as thin as a hair, that lie on the seabed. They carry signals as flashes of light for thousands of kilometres. Special boosters, called repeaters, keep the signal strong. Almost all global internet traffic uses these cables, not satellites.
How Did the Cables Get Cut?
The Red Sea is a busy route for ships. Hundreds of ships go through it every day. Investigators think a ship’s heavy anchor dragged on the seabed and cut the cables.
An anchor is a big metal hook dropped in the sea to stop a ship. But if it is dropped in the wrong place, it can crush or slice cables. The narrow waters and troubles in the area made the risk even higher.
What Problems Did It Cause?
When the cables were cut, internet traffic had to take longer paths. This made websites slower, online meetings glitchy, and apps less responsive. In some places, internet speeds dropped by about 20–30%. Microsoft reduced the problem by sending data through other cables, but full repairs will take weeks because special repair ships are needed.
How Can This Be Prevented?
Experts say cables should be buried deeper under the seabed, and maps should mark no-anchor zones. More backup routes should also be built. Satellites can help, but they are slower and cost more.
These cables connect the world. Protecting them means protecting the internet we use every day.
Quick Revision
On 6 Sept 2025, Microsoft Azure became slow.
Undersea internet cables in the Red Sea were cut.
These cables carry most of the world’s internet.
A ship’s anchor likely damaged them.
Internet became slow, showing how important sea cables are.
