Getting started in the Azure Portal

3 min read 4 months ago
Published on May 16, 2024 This response is partially generated with the help of AI. It may contain inaccuracies.

Table of Contents

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Getting Started in the Azure Portal

Step 1: Accessing the Azure Portal

  1. Open a web browser and navigate to portal.azure.com.
  2. Log in using your new Azure subscription credentials.

Step 2: Azure Quick Start Center

  1. Upon logging in, you will be directed to the Azure Quick Start Center.
  2. The Quick Start Center provides guided experiences for core Azure scenarios and services, offering details on options, costs, and prerequisites.
  3. It is designed for IT admins and Cloud architects to introduce key Azure concepts and assist in setting up the Azure environment.

Step 3: Navigating the Azure Portal

  1. On the home screen or main dashboard, you will see recent and recommended services at the top.
  2. Below that, you'll find your recent resources, resource groups, all resources, and dashboard.
  3. Use the buttons for tools to manage your Azure environment and access useful resources like documentation and the Azure Quick Start Center.
  4. The menu allows you to browse resources by type such as virtual machines, databases, and more.

Step 4: Exploring Azure Services

  1. Click on "All services" at the top of the menu to access the full list of Azure services categorized by type.
  2. You can search for specific services using the search box, e.g., typing "SQL" will filter down to SQL-related services.
  3. Favorite services by clicking the star icon to add them to your list for quick access.

Step 5: Customizing Your Experience

  1. In the upper right corner, click on your account email address to access options like signing out, viewing account information, or signing in with a different account.
  2. Use the icons to provide feedback, access help and support, and customize your portal experience including themes, language, and subscriptions.

Step 6: Utilizing Azure Cloud Shell

  1. Launch the Azure Cloud Shell from the far-left icon in the portal.
  2. The Cloud Shell is a browser-based shell for creating and managing Azure resources via the command line without additional installations.

Step 7: Searching for Resources

  1. Use the search bar at the top of the portal to quickly find resources, resource groups, services, marketplace offerings, users in Azure Active Directory, and documentation.
  2. Filter search results by clicking on the filter pills at the top.

Step 8: Mobile Access with Azure Mobile App

  1. Install the Azure mobile app on your mobile device for managing and monitoring Azure resources on the go.
  2. Enjoy features like push notifications for monitoring alerts and a first-class experience for Azure resource management.

Step 9: Further Learning and Engagement

  1. Explore the Azure free account, 30-day trial, 12 months of free services, and the always free offerings.
  2. Join weekly Azure live Q&A sessions for interactive discussions and answers to your Azure questions.

By following these steps, you can navigate the Azure Portal, customize your experience, and efficiently manage your Azure resources.