Azure Linux, formerly known as CBL-Mariner, is a free and open-source Linux distribution developed by Microsoft.

Azure Linux serves as the base container OS for many Microsoft Azure services and is also used as the graphical component of WSL 2. 

**Key features of Azure Linux:**

* **Lightweight:** Designed to be minimal, focusing on essential components for cloud and edge environments.

* **Secure:** Incorporates security features like a hardened kernel and signed updates.

* **Customizable:** Can be customized to meet specific needs through custom packages and tools.

* **Azure Integration:** Tightly integrated with Microsoft Azure services.

**Use cases:**

* **Azure Cloud Services:** As the base container OS for many Azure services.

* **Edge Devices:** Used in various edge computing scenarios, such as IoT devices and edge servers.

* **Custom Deployments:** Developers can customize it for specific applications.

**Important to note:**

* Azure Linux is not a traditional desktop Linux distribution. It's optimized for server and embedded environments.

* While open-source, its primary focus is on Microsoft's internal use and Azure services.

If you're looking for a general-purpose Linux distribution, Azure Linux might not be the best choice. However, if you're working with Azure or building custom solutions for cloud and edge environments, it's worth considering.