Windows Virtual Machines
Deploy and manage Windows virtual machines (VMs) in Azure to run your Windows-based applications and workloads. Azure VMs provide the flexibility of virtualization for a wide variety of computing solutions.
Did you know? Azure offers a wide range of Windows Server editions, including the latest versions, to ensure compatibility with your existing software.
Key Concepts
Understanding the fundamental concepts of Windows VMs in Azure is crucial for effective deployment and management.
Compute Resources
Azure VMs can be deployed in various sizes and configurations to meet specific performance and cost requirements. Common sizes include:
- General Purpose: Balanced CPU-to-memory ratio (e.g., D-series, B-series)
- Compute Optimized: High CPU-to-memory ratio (e.g., F-series)
- Memory Optimized: High memory-to-CPU ratio (e.g., E-series, M-series)
- Storage Optimized: High disk throughput and IOPS (e.g., Lsv2-series)
You can choose from a selection of operating system disks, including managed disks for enhanced reliability and performance.
Networking
Configure virtual networks (VNets), subnets, and network security groups (NSGs) to secure and connect your Windows VMs. Azure Load Balancer can distribute traffic across multiple VMs for high availability.
Storage
Azure offers various storage options for your Windows VMs, including:
- OS Disk: Stores the operating system.
- Data Disks: Stores application data. Available as Standard HDD, Standard SSD, and Premium SSD.
- Temporary Disk: Provides high-performance local storage for temporary data.
Getting Started
Follow these steps to deploy your first Windows VM in Azure:
- Create a Virtual Machine: Navigate to the Azure portal, select "Virtual machines", and click "Create".
- Configure VM Settings: Choose a Windows Server image (e.g., Windows Server 2022 Datacenter), VM size, username, and password.
- Configure Networking and Storage: Set up your virtual network and choose appropriate storage for your disks.
- Review and Create: Verify your settings and click "Create" to deploy the VM.
Tip: Consider using Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates or Bicep for automating your VM deployments.
Common Tasks
Connecting to a Windows VM
Use Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) to connect to your Windows VM. Ensure that the RDP port (default 3389) is open in your network security group.
# Example using Azure CLI to get RDP file
az vm show --resource-group <your-resource-group> --name <your-vm-name> --show-details --query "osProfile.adminUsername"
# Then use an RDP client with the VM's public IP address
Installing Software
Once connected via RDP, you can install applications just like on a physical Windows machine. You can also use tools like PowerShell Desired State Configuration (DSC) or Azure VM extensions for automated software installation.
Monitoring and Management
Azure Monitor provides comprehensive monitoring capabilities for your VMs. You can track performance metrics, set up alerts, and analyze logs.
Important: Regularly update your Windows VMs with the latest security patches to protect against vulnerabilities.