Today Novell announced it has joined the Microsoft Windows Azure Technology Adoption Program to address cloud security challenges through the Novell® Cloud Security Service.  Microsoft and Novell will work together on pre-release, non-commercial, internal testing and validation of Novell Cloud Security Service on the popular Windows Azure.

According to research from the Cloud Security Alliance and Novell, managing and enforcing security in the cloud is a top concern among IT executives considering cloud-based solutions. Novell is hoping this partnership will help by leveraging seamless cross-platform authentication, single sign-on and audit for users.

“Microsoft is excited to have Novell participate in the Windows Azure Technology Adoption Program.  The Windows Azure platform enables Novell to deliver cloud-based services that extend the value of on-premise software without the need to manage technology infrastructure,” said Robert Duffner, Director of Product Management for Windows Azure, Microsoft Corp.  ”Integrating Novell Cloud Security Service into Windows Azure ensures an identity, security and compliance management framework is in place to give our customers peace of mind without sacrificing investments in existing applications.”