<!--IssueSummary start--> <details> <summary> Everyone can contribute. [Help move this issue forward](https://handbook.gitlab.com/handbook/marketing/developer-relations/contributor-success/community-contributors-workflows/#contributor-links) while earning points, leveling up and collecting rewards. </summary> - [Close this issue](https://contributors.gitlab.com/manage-issue?action=close&projectId=278964&issueIid=523096) </details> <!--IssueSummary end--> ## Summary The legacy Azure storage driver for GitLab Container Registry will be deprecated in GitLab 18.0 and removed in GitLab 19.0. ## Motivation The legacy driver uses older Azure SDK components with limitations in functionality and performance. The new Azure v2 driver provides improved reliability, better performance, and a more maintainable codebase. ## Proposal 1. Add deprecation notices to: * GitLab deprecation documentation (https://docs.gitlab.com/ee/update/deprecations.html) * Admin configuration documentation (https://docs.gitlab.com/ee/administration/packages/container_registry.html) * Release notes for GitLab 18.0 2. Implement runtime log warnings when users are running the deprecated Azure v1 driver: Copy `WARNING: You are using the deprecated Azure v1 storage driver. Please migrate to the v2 driver before GitLab 19.0.` 3. Ensure clear migration instructions are available for users to switch from v1 to v2 4. Coordinate customer outreach to find users willing to test the Azure v2 driver ## Rollout Plan * GitLab 18.0 (Feb/March 2025): Deprecation announced, Azure v2 available as beta * GitLab 18.3 (May 2025): Continue Azure v2 beta with improvements based on user feedback * GitLab 19.0: Azure v2 becomes GA, Azure v1 driver removed completely ## Documentation Documentation should include: * Announcement of the deprecation timeline * Migration instructions * Reference to detailed Azure v2 documentation (https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/container-registry/-/blob/master/docs/storage-drivers/azure_v2.md) * Testing recommendations * Authentication configuration changes