MSDN Documentation

Step 1: Install the Azure Functions Extension for VS Code

Open VS Code and navigate to the Extensions view (Ctrl+Shift+X or Cmd+Shift+X). Search for "Azure Functions" and install the extension published by Microsoft.

After installation, you'll see an Azure icon in the Activity Bar. Click it to access the Azure Functions explorer.

Step 2: Create a New Azure Functions Project

In the Azure Functions explorer, click the "Create New Project..." button.

1. Choose a folder for your project.
2. Select a programming language (e.g., JavaScript, TypeScript, C#). For this tutorial, we'll assume JavaScript.
3. Select a template for your first function. Choose "HTTP trigger".
4. Provide a name for your function, like HttpTriggerExample.
5. Set the authorization level. For simplicity, choose "Anonymous".

VS Code will create a new project with the necessary files, including host.json, local.settings.json, and your function file (e.g., HttpTriggerExample/index.js).

Step 3: Understand the Project Structure

Let's look at some key files:

• host.json: Configuration settings that affect all functions in the project.
• local.settings.json: Stores app settings, connection strings, and settings for local development. Do not commit this file to source control.
• HttpTriggerExample/index.js (or your function's file): Contains the code for your HTTP-triggered function.
• HttpTriggerExample/function.json: Configuration specific to this function, including triggers and bindings.

Step 4: Write Your Function Code

Open the HttpTriggerExample/index.js file. The default code will look something like this:

module.exports = async function (context, req) {
    context.log('JavaScript HTTP trigger function processed a request.');

    const name = (req.query.name || (req.body && req.body.name));
    const responseMessage = name
        ? 'Hello, ' + name + '. This HTTP triggered function executed successfully.'
        : 'This HTTP triggered function executed successfully. Pass a name in the query string or in the request body for a personalized response.';

    context.res = {
        // status: 200, /* Defaults to 200 */
        body: responseMessage
    };
};
                

This code logs a message, checks for a name parameter in the query string or request body, and returns a personalized greeting.

Step 5: Run Your Function Locally

Press F5 or go to the "Run" menu and select "Start Debugging".

The Azure Functions Core Tools will start up, and your function will be available at a local URL (usually http://localhost:7071/api/HttpTriggerExample).

Open your web browser and navigate to that URL. You can also test with query parameters:

• http://localhost:7071/api/HttpTriggerExample?name=MSDN

You should see the response in your browser.

Step 6: Deploy to Azure

Once you're satisfied with your function, you can deploy it to Azure.

1. Ensure you are signed in to your Azure account in VS Code (use the Azure Functions explorer to sign in).
2. Click the "Deploy to Function App..." button in the Azure Functions explorer.
3. If you don't have a Function App created, select "+ Create new Function App in Azure...".
4. Follow the prompts to configure your Function App (select subscription, enter a globally unique name, choose a runtime stack, region, and resource group).
5. VS Code will create the Function App in Azure and then deploy your local project to it.

After deployment, you'll receive the URL of your deployed function. You can also access your function from the Azure portal.