Azure is Microsoft’s cloud platform. You can use Azure to save data. You can also run apps and make websites online. Azure is getting bigger every year. Its market share grows by 21% each year. Here is what the market looks like now:
Azure 101 begins with learning these simple facts.
Key Takeaways
Azure is an easy-to-use cloud platform from Microsoft. It works well for beginners and businesses. You can host websites, save data, and run apps. You do not need advanced tech skills to use it.
Starting with Azure is easy. You can make an account in a few steps. Try out different services with hands-on labs and training tools.
Knowing how Azure prices things helps you control costs. Use the free trial and watch your spending to get the most value.
1. What is Azure?
Azure 101 Overview
Maybe you ask, what is Azure? Azure is a cloud platform made by Microsoft. You can use Azure to build things online. You can also run apps and keep your data safe. You do not need to buy new computers or fix them. Azure is good for beginners and big companies. You can start with easy projects. You can do more as you learn.
Azure 101 means you learn the basics first. You get to use servers all over the world. These servers help you host websites and store files. You can also run apps on them. Azure is simple to use, even if you are new to cloud services.
Microsoft Azure has more than 600 services. These services fit into three main groups:
Key Features
Azure 101 shows you features that make cloud computing easy. Here are some things you can do with Azure:
Host websites and blogs
Store files and data safely
Build and test apps
Make RESTful APIs for web and mobile apps
Set up mobile app back ends
Use data warehousing for reports
You can use Azure for many jobs. You do not have to be an expert. Azure lets you start small and grow bigger when you need to. You can try different services and pick what works for you.
2. Azure 101: Getting Started
Create Account
Ready to jump into Azure 101? You can set up your Azure account in just a few steps. You don’t need to know much about computers or networking. Here’s how you get started:
Go to azure.com and hit the green “Start free” button.
Click “Start free” again on the next page.
If you already use Microsoft 365 or Outlook, log in with your Microsoft account.
Fill in your details. Some info may show up automatically.
Verify your account with your phone. Most people use SMS.
Enter a regular credit or debit card. Microsoft checks your identity but doesn’t charge you for the trial.
Agree to the terms and click “Sign Up.”
Your Azure account will be ready in seconds.
Tip: You’ll see a $0 transaction on your bank statement. This is just for verification.
Initial Setup
Once you have your account, you can set up your first Azure service. You don’t need to be a tech expert. The portal guides you through each step. Basics help, but you can learn as you go.
To start, visit the Azure portal at portal.azure.com. Sign in and add a subscription. You can pick the free trial or Pay-As-You-Go. Enter your billing info to finish.
Want to learn more? Check out these beginner-friendly training resources:
You can start with hands-on labs and simple exercises. Azure 101 is all about learning by doing.
3. Core Services
When you start with Azure 101, you will find three main service types. These are compute, storage, and networking. They help you build, save, and connect your apps in the cloud.
Compute
You can run your apps on Azure with different compute choices. Here are some popular ones:
Azure Virtual Machines let you run apps in a virtual space. It works like a computer.
Azure App Service helps you build and host web apps and APIs. You do not need to set up servers. You can just work on your code.
Azure Functions run small bits of code when something happens. This could be a button click or a file upload.
Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) helps manage containers and microservices for big projects.
Azure DevOps gives you tools to plan, build, and launch your apps.
Tip: Azure App Service is easy for beginners. You can put your website or API online fast. You do not need to know how to manage servers.
Storage
Azure has many ways to store your data. Each type is good for a different job. Here is a quick guide:
You can choose the storage that fits your project. For example, use Blob Storage for photos or videos. Use File Storage for team files.
Networking
Azure networking helps your apps and data stay safe and connected. Here are some tools you can use:
Azure Virtual Network (VNet) makes a private network for your resources.
Azure Load Balancer spreads traffic so your apps work well.
Azure Application Gateway controls web traffic and keeps your site safe.
Azure VPN Gateway connects your office network to Azure.
Azure CDN makes your website load faster by putting content near users.
You can use these services together to make a strong and safe cloud setup.
4. Pricing & Cost Management
Understanding how Azure charges you is a big part of Azure 101. You want to know what you pay for and how to keep your costs low. Let’s break it down.
Pricing Basics
Azure uses different pricing models. You can pick what fits your needs best:
Tip: The Pay-as-you-go model is great when you want to try things out or have changing needs.
You can use the Azure Pricing Calculator to estimate your monthly costs. Just pick the services you want, set your usage, and see the price. You can even compare different plans and see which one saves you more.
Free Tier
Azure gives you a free trial and a free tier. The trial lasts 30 days and gives you $200 in credits. After that, you can use some services for free for 12 months. Here’s a quick look:
Cost Tips
You can save money on Azure if you plan ahead. Here are some smart ways to manage your costs:
Watch your spending with continuous monitoring.
Use reserved instances for steady workloads and save up to 72%.
Try spot virtual machines for non-critical jobs and cut costs by up to 90%.
Tag your resources so you know where your money goes.
Right-size your resources. Don’t pay for more than you need.
Set up auto-scaling to match your usage.
Use the Azure Hybrid Benefit if you have existing licenses.
Pick the right storage tier for your data.
Use Dev/Test pricing for development projects.
Set policies to control spending.
Remember: Good cost management means you get more value from Azure without surprises.
5. Security Essentials
Security Practices
You want your data and apps to be safe in the cloud. Azure gives you tools, but you need good habits too. Here are five smart steps to help keep things secure:
Use Azure Key Vault to store passwords, keys, and secrets in one safe spot. This helps you manage and check them easily.
Turn on TLS/SSL for all data moving between your apps and users. This keeps your information private as it travels.
Set up Role-Based Access Control (RBAC). Give each person only what they need. This helps stop mistakes and keeps things safe.
Try Conditional Access with Azure Active Directory. You can make rules for who can log in and from where.
Require Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for everyone. This adds another lock to your account. It makes it much harder for hackers to get in.
Tip: Start with these steps. You will build strong habits that keep your work safe from the start.
Built-in Features
Azure has strong security features ready to help you. Here are some you will use a lot:
Microsoft treats your data as important and uses strong controls to keep it safe.
You can protect your data as it moves with VPNs, TLS 1.2 or later, and built-in locks between Azure datacenters.
Azure also helps you meet big security rules. Here are some examples:
Note: You control your data’s safety settings. Azure gives you the tools, but you choose how to use them.
6. Support & Resources
Documentation
You do not have to feel confused when using Azure. Microsoft gives you many free tools to help you learn. These tools also help you fix problems. Here are some good places to begin:
Azure documentation: This is your main guide for Azure. You can find easy steps and answers to questions.
Build skills with Microsoft Learn for Azure: Try learning paths and short lessons. You can practice skills at your own speed.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals: This page tells you about the AZ-900 exam and what you should know.
Get started for Azure developers: If you want to make apps, start here.
Design your app using the Azure Architecture Center: Find tips for planning and building your work.
Cloud Adoption Framework: Learn how to use Azure for your group or business.
Tip: You can always use these guides if you need help or want to learn more.
Community
You are not alone when you use Azure. There are many ways to get help and talk to others. Here are some support channels and forums you can try:
If you want to show your skills, you can take the AZ-900 Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam. This test covers cloud basics, Azure services, and how to manage your stuff. It is a good first step for new users.
Remember: The Azure community is kind and ready to help. You can ask questions and share what you learn.
You just learned the basics of Azure! Here’s a quick recap:
What is Azure?
How do you get started?
Which core services can you use?
How do you manage costs?
What keeps your data safe?
Azure helps you transform how you work, gives you strong security, and supports you every step.
Explore more, try new things, and join the Azure community. 🚀
FAQ
How much does Azure cost for beginners?
You get $200 free credits for 30 days. After that, some services stay free for 12 months. You only pay for what you use.
Can you use Azure without coding skills?
Yes! You can build websites, store files, and use many services with simple clicks. Azure has easy guides for beginners.
What happens if you need help with Azure?
You can ask questions in the Azure community, check official docs, or submit a support ticket. Microsoft experts answer fast. 🚀