Microsoft outage wreaks havoc in Asia, exposing dependence risk

Technology Microsoft outage wreaks havoc in Asia, exposing dependence risk Companies and governments scramble after losing email, AI, other services The widespread disruption of Microsoft services has interfered with operations at organizations around the world. © Reuters YOHEI KAWAI, ERI WATANABE and HAYATO KISHIMA November 14, 2026 03:41 JST TOKYO -- The international outage that hit Microsoft 365 has exposed the risk of governments, businesses and other organizations becoming dependent on a single provider's services, while also highlighting the vulnerabilities created by concentrating large amounts of data in cloud systems. Read Next Global Management Dialogue 2026 Microsoft says tech firms must 'prove' AI data centers benefit locals Cybersecurity Cyberattack on Japan internet provider GMO threatens customer computers Cybersecurity PHP security flaws prompt Japan to take websites down while US keeps them up Artificial intelligence OpenAI steps up safety, promises earlier disclosure after Australian hack Cybersecurity Japan's Takaichi pushes for tougher cybersecurity laws as attacks surge Cybersecurity Japan wants US tech companies to share undisclosed software flaws as risks mount Cybersecurity NTT to help Japanese companies update at-risk aging IT with AI Latest on Technology Technology Microsoft outage spills into Asia-Pacific despite 'partial recovery' Technology Nvidia case puts Singapore, Malaysia companies in spotlight Technology Nvidia crisis exposes downside of rockstar founders Sponsored Content About Sponsored Content This content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.