Azure Functions: Get Started
Azure Functions is an event-driven, serverless compute platform that can also solve complex orchestration problems. It allows you to run small pieces of code, or "functions," in the cloud without having to provision or manage infrastructure.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps to start building and deploying your first Azure Functions.
1. Prerequisites
Before you begin, ensure you have the following:
- Azure Subscription: If you don't have one, you can create a free account.
- Azure Functions Core Tools: Install the latest version from the official documentation.
- Node.js: Version 16 or later is recommended.
- IDE: Visual Studio Code with the Azure Functions extension is highly recommended.
2. Creating Your First Function
You can create a function project locally using the Azure Functions Core Tools.
Using the Command Line Interface (CLI)
Open your terminal or command prompt and run the following commands:
# Create a new project
func init MyFunctionProj --worker-runtime node
# Navigate into the project directory
cd MyFunctionProj
# Create a new HTTP-triggered function
func new --name HttpTriggerFunction --template "HTTP trigger" --authlevel anonymous
Using Visual Studio Code
- Open Visual Studio Code.
- Install the "Azure Functions" extension.
- Click the Azure icon in the Activity Bar.
- In the Workspace tab, click "Create new project...".
- Choose a folder for your project.
- Select your desired language (e.g., JavaScript).
- Choose a template for your function (e.g., HTTP trigger).
- Provide a name for your function and set the authorization level.
3. Understanding the Project Structure
A typical Azure Functions project has the following structure:
HttpTriggerFunction/index.js: The code for your HTTP-triggered function.HttpTriggerFunction/function.json: Configuration file for your function, defining triggers and bindings.local.settings.json: Stores app settings and connection strings for local development.host.json: Global configuration options that affect all functions in the function app.
Tip: The function.json file is crucial. It defines how your function is triggered (e.g., HTTP request, timer, queue message) and how it interacts with other services via input and output bindings.
4. Running Locally
To test your function before deploying, use the Azure Functions Core Tools:
func start
This command will start a local runtime that simulates the Azure Functions environment. You'll see output indicating your function is running and the URL to access it (usually http://localhost:7071/api/HttpTriggerFunction).
5. Deploying to Azure
Once you're ready to deploy, you can do so using the Azure CLI, Visual Studio Code, or Azure Portal.
Using the Azure CLI
Make sure you are logged into your Azure account:
az login
Then, deploy your project:
az functionapp create --resource-group --consumption-plan-location --runtime node --functions-version 4 --name
az functionapp deployment source config-zip --resource-group --name --src-zip-path ./MyFunctionProj.zip
Replace placeholders like <YourResourceGroupName>, <Region>, and <YourFunctionAppName> with your specific values.
6. Next Steps
Congratulations! You've created and deployed your first Azure Function. Explore the following resources to learn more: