Microsoft’s Windows Azure cloud computing platform is now one year old, and the Redmond company has announced that there are now more than 31,000 customers using the platform. 20,000 were racked up the first six months alone.

Microsoft is now seeing larger, more established companies like Xerox, T-Mobile, and Travelocity tap into the Azure cloud. “One of the things we’re seeing is cloud computing is moving away from a buzz word to chest beating to something with real business benefits,” said Microsoft’s Amy Barzdukas.

Happy birthday, um, suite of cloud-based programs!