Microsoft Laying Off About 9000 Employees: What It Means in 2025

Microsoft is laying off about 9,000 employees in 2025. This is one of the company’s biggest job cuts in years and has many people asking why. In July 2025, Microsoft announced it is laying off about 9,000 workers. This is a big number and has many people asking: why is this happening, and what does it mean for the future?

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Why Microsoft Is Cutting Jobs

Microsoft said the job cuts are part of a plan to make the company work better. According to the company, the layoffs will affect less than 4% of its total workforce. That means most workers will keep their jobs, but 9,000 people will not.

Microsoft has about 228,000 employees around the world. So, this layoff is a small part of the company, but it’s still a big deal.

What the Company Said

A Microsoft spokesperson said they are “making changes to help the company succeed in a fast-changing world.” That means the company wants to move faster, save money, and focus on what matters most.

Abstract office glass layers representing microsoft laying off about 9000 employees and flattening teams

Not the First Round of Layoffs

This is not the first time Microsoft has cut jobs:

  • In January 2025, it laid off a small number of workers.
  • In May 2025, over 6,000 jobs were cut.
  • In June 2025, about 300 more workers lost their jobs.

This new round in July added another 9,000 layoffs, making this year one of the biggest in job cuts for Microsoft.

In 2023, Microsoft also laid off 10,000 people. And back in 2014, they had their largest layoff ever—18,000 people—after buying Nokia’s phone business.

Who Is Affected?

Microsoft didn’t share every detail, but the cuts are happening across many teams and locations. This includes people at different levels—from new employees to experienced workers.

Gaming Division Also Hit

Phil Spencer, who leads Microsoft’s gaming team, shared that his division is also cutting jobs. He said the goal is to remove “layers of management” so teams can work faster and better. This means fewer bosses and more focus on getting things done.

Why Now?

The layoffs were announced at the start of Microsoft’s 2026 fiscal year. Companies often make big changes when their new budget year begins. This helps them set new goals and focus on new plans.

Market Pressure and Reorganization

Tech companies are under pressure to grow, make money, and stay competitive. Even though Microsoft is making a lot of money, it still wants to be more efficient.

In fact, Microsoft made $26 billion in net income and $70 billion in revenue in just one quarter, according to FactSet. That’s a lot of money. But investors and company leaders still want to improve how the business runs.

One way to do that is by cutting costs—and that often means cutting jobs.

Cloud server room highlighting Microsoft’s shift after laying off about 9000 employees

Microsoft Is Still Growing in Some Areas

Even though Microsoft is cutting jobs, it’s also growing in other parts of the company.

Executives expect about 14% revenue growth in the June quarter, thanks to services like Azure cloud computing and software tools like Microsoft 365.

This means the company is trying to shift focus—from older or slower areas to fast-growing parts of the business.

What This Means for the Tech Industry

Microsoft isn’t alone. Other tech companies are also laying off workers in 2025. For example:

CompanyJob Cuts in 2025
Microsoft9,000 (July), 6,000+ (May)
AutodeskNot released
CheggNot released
CrowdStrikeNot released
ADPU.S. private sector lost 33,000 jobs in June

(Source: CNBC, Dow Jones, FactSet)

These numbers show that the job market in tech is changing. Some companies are hiring, but others are shrinking to stay competitive.

Is Microsoft in Trouble?

No, Microsoft is not in trouble. In fact, its stock price hit a record high of $497.45 per share on June 26, 2025. That means investors still believe in the company.

But Microsoft wants to prepare for the future. By cutting layers of management and focusing on strong areas like cloud services and AI, the company is getting ready for what’s next.

Corporate boardroom used for post-layoff business performance meetings at Microsoft

What About the Workers?

Job loss is always hard. When a company cuts thousands of jobs, many families are affected.

Some of the workers may find new jobs inside Microsoft. Others will need to look for work at other companies. Microsoft has not said if it will offer severance pay or job placement help, but it often does in large layoffs.

If you or someone you know is affected, here are a few steps to take:

  • Update your resume and LinkedIn profile
  • Reach out to your network
  • Look at job openings in your area
  • Ask about unemployment benefits

Lessons for Business Owners

If you own a small or mid-size business, there’s something to learn from this. Even the biggest companies need to adapt and change. That means:

  • Keeping your technology systems updated
  • Making sure your cybersecurity is strong
  • Having a team that helps you stay ahead

That’s where local support can help.

Need help keeping your business tech strong?

At Redbird Technology Solutions, we’ve been helping Milwaukee businesses for over 25 years. We know how fast the tech world changes—and we can help your business stay secure, updated, and ready for anything.

We offer:

  • Managed IT services
  • Cybersecurity protection
  • Security camera installs
  • Cloud support and more

We’re local, experienced, and here to help.

Ready to feel confident in your tech setup?
Contact Redbird Technology Solutions today for a free consultation.

Digital skyline showing industry effects of Microsoft laying off about 9000 employees

Final Thoughts

The news that Microsoft is laying off about 9,000 employees is big. It shows how even large, successful companies need to change to stay ahead.

While this is tough for the workers affected, it’s also a sign of shifting priorities in tech. Cloud services, AI, and remote tools are becoming more important than ever.

If you’re a business owner, now is the time to make sure your tech is ready for the future. Whether you’re in Milwaukee or nearby, Redbird Technology Solutions can help.

Don’t wait until there’s a problem—talk to a local expert today and protect your business from the inside out.

7 Basic Services Your Business Needs Today

In today’s digital age, information technology (IT) services are the backbone of nearly every business operation. Whether you run a small startup or a mid-sized enterprise, having the right IT services in place can significantly enhance productivity, efficiency, and security. This article explores seven basic services your business needs today, focusing on their benefits for small and mid-sized businesses. From network administration to cybersecurity, each service plays a crucial role in ensuring your business’s success.

1. Network Administration: Keeping Your Business Connected

Network administration is the foundation of a well-functioning IT infrastructure. It involves managing and maintaining your business’s network, including servers, routers, switches, and other networking equipment. Here’s why network administration is essential:

– Reliable Connectivity: Network administrators ensure that your network operates smoothly, minimizing downtime and keeping your employees connected to critical resources.

– Optimized Performance: They monitor network traffic, identify bottlenecks, and make necessary adjustments to improve network performance, ensuring that your operations run efficiently.

– Scalability: As your business grows, network administrators can scale your network infrastructure to accommodate increased demand, allowing for seamless expansion.

– Security: Network administrators implement security protocols to protect your network from unauthorized access and potential cyber threats.

For small and mid-sized businesses, network administration helps maintain a stable and secure network environment, allowing employees to work productively and access vital resources without interruption.

2. System Integration: Seamless Technology Coordination

System integration involves the seamless coordination of various IT systems and applications within your organization. It ensures that different technologies work together harmoniously, leading to increased efficiency and improved workflows. Here’s why system integration is crucial:

– Efficiency: Integrated systems reduce redundancy and streamline processes, saving time and resources for your business.

– Data Accuracy: By connecting systems, you reduce the risk of data entry errors and improve data accuracy, leading to better decision-making.

– Improved Collaboration: Integrated systems facilitate collaboration among employees, enabling them to access and share data effortlessly.

– Enhanced Customer Experience: Integrated systems provide a holistic view of customer data, allowing you to provide personalized services and better customer support.

For small and mid-sized businesses, system integration helps eliminate technology silos and creates a more efficient and agile IT environment.

3. Data Backup and Security: Safeguarding Your Digital Assets

Data backup and security are paramount for protecting your business’s valuable digital assets. These services ensure that your data is safe from loss, theft, or cyberattacks. Here’s why data backup and security are vital:

– Data Protection: Backup solutions safeguard your data from hardware failures, accidental deletions, and disasters, ensuring business continuity.

– Cybersecurity: Data security measures protect your data from malicious attacks, such as ransomware and data breaches.

– Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with data security regulations is critical, and data backup and security services help you meet these requirements.

– Peace of Mind: Knowing that your data is secure and can be restored in case of data loss provides peace of mind for business owners.

Small and mid-sized businesses benefit from data backup and security by minimizing the risk of data loss, maintaining customer trust, and complying with data protection regulations.

4. Helpdesk and Break-Fix: Quick Solutions for Technical Issues

Helpdesk and break-fix services provide essential technical support to address IT problems as they arise. Whether it’s resolving software glitches or fixing hardware issues, these services ensure that your business operations continue smoothly. Here’s why helpdesk and break-fix services are essential:

– Minimized Downtime: Quick resolution of technical issues minimizes downtime, allowing employees to remain productive.

– Cost Efficiency: Instead of hiring full-time IT staff, small and mid-sized businesses can benefit from on-demand technical support, reducing costs.

– Expertise: Helpdesk technicians and break-fix specialists possess the expertise needed to troubleshoot and resolve a wide range of IT problems.

 Resource Allocation: Outsourcing these services allows you to focus on core business activities while experts handle IT issues.

For small and mid-sized businesses, helpdesk and break-fix services offer a cost-effective and efficient way to address technical challenges, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.

5. Managed IT Services: Comprehensive Support

Managed IT services encompass a wide range of proactive IT support and management activities. These services go beyond addressing immediate issues and focus on optimizing your IT infrastructure for long-term success. Here’s why managed IT services are beneficial:

– Proactive Maintenance: Managed service providers perform routine maintenance and monitoring to prevent issues before they disrupt your business.

– Predictable Costs: With fixed monthly costs, managed IT services help you budget effectively without unexpected expenses.

– Scalability: As your business grows, managed service providers can scale your IT infrastructure and support accordingly.

– Strategic Guidance: Managed IT services providers offer strategic guidance to align your IT with your business goals.

For small and mid-sized businesses, managed IT services offer a comprehensive solution to IT management, ensuring stability, security, and cost-effectiveness.

6. Cloud Services: Enhancing Scalability and Accessibility

Cloud services have revolutionized the way businesses store data and access applications. These services offer scalability, accessibility, and cost-efficiency. Here’s why cloud services are valuable:

– Scalability: Cloud services allow you to scale resources up or down based on your business’s changing needs, eliminating the need for extensive on-premises infrastructure.

– Accessibility: With cloud-based applications and data, employees can access critical resources from anywhere with an internet connection, promoting flexibility and remote work.

– Cost Savings: Cloud services often reduce the upfront costs associated with traditional IT infrastructure and provide predictable monthly expenses.

– Disaster Recovery: Cloud storage offers robust disaster recovery options, ensuring that your data is safe even in the face of natural disasters or hardware failures.

For small and mid-sized businesses, cloud services provide the flexibility and cost-efficiency needed to compete in today’s fast-paced business environment.

7. Cybersecurity: Protecting Your Business from Threats

Internet safety services are essential for safeguarding your business against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. IT security measures protect sensitive data, prevent breaches, and ensure compliance. Here’s why cybersecurity is critical:

– Data Protection: Cybersecurity measures protect your business’s sensitive data, including customer information and proprietary data.

 Threat Detection: Advanced threat detection technologies identify and mitigate potential threats before they can cause harm.

– Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with data protection regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA, is crucial, and cybersecurity services help meet these requirements.

– Reputation Management: Effective cybersecurity measures safeguard your business’s reputation by preventing data breaches and security incidents.

For small and mid-sized businesses, cybersecurity services are essential to mitigate the risks associated with cyberattacks and protect critical business assets.

In today’s digital age, IT services are essential for the success of small and mid-sized businesses. From network administration to cybersecurity, each service plays