Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): Create a Windows Virtual Machine in Azure
Purpose: The purpose of this SOP is to provide a step-by-step guide for creating a Windows virtual machine (VM) in Microsoft Azure. This process will allow users to deploy a Windows-based VM and configure it according to their specific requirements.
Scope: This SOP applies to users who have access to Microsoft Azure and intend to create a Windows VM within their Azure subscription.
Procedure:
1. Access the Azure Portal:
Open a web browser and navigate to the Azure Portal at https://portal.azure.com.
Enter your Azure account credentials and sign in.
2. Navigate to Virtual Machines:
In the Azure Portal dashboard, click on "Virtual machines" in the left-hand menu.
Click on the "Add" button to start creating a new VM.
3. Select the Basics configuration:
a. In the "Basics" tab, configure the following settings:
Subscription: Select the appropriate Azure subscription.
Resource Group: Choose an existing resource group or create a new one.
Virtual Machine Name: Enter a unique name for your VM.
Region: Select the Azure region where you want to deploy the VM.
Availability Options: Choose the desired availability option (e.g., No infrastructure
redundancy required).
Image: Select the Windows Server image you want to use.
Size: Choose an appropriate VM size based on your requirements.
b. Click "Next" to proceed.
4. Configure VM settings:
In the "Disks"tab, configure the OS disk and any additional data disks as needed.
In the"Networking"tab, configure the virtual network, subnet, public IP address, and network security group settings.
In the "Management"tab, configure any required management settings such as diagnostics, boot diagnostics, or extensions.
In the "Advanced"tab, configure additional advanced settings if necessary.
Click "Next" to continue.
5. Configure Authentication:
In the "Authentication type" section, select an authentication method, such as password or SSH key.
Provide the necessary credentials (username and password) or SSH key information.
Click "Next"to proceed.
6. Review and Create:
Review all the configurations you have made for the VM.
Click "Create" to start the deployment process.
7. Monitor the VM deployment:
The Azure Portal will display the deployment progress and provide notifications when the VM is being created.
Wait for the deployment to complete.
8. Access and manage the VM:
Once the deployment is successful, you can access the VM through various methods such as Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) or Azure Bastion.
Connect to the VM using the provided connection details (IP address, username, and
password/SSH key).
Customize the VM settings, install applications, and perform any additional configurations required.
9. Validate VM functionality:
Ensure that the VM is functioning correctly by testing the desired applications and services.
Verify that the network connectivity, disk storage, and any other configured resources are working as expected.
10. Update and maintain the VM:
Regularly update the VM by applying the latest Windows updates and patches.
Implement security best practices, such as configuring firewalls, antivirus, and monitoring solutions.
Perform routine maintenance tasks to ensure the VM's optimal performance and stability.
11. Deallocate or Delete the VM:
When the VM is no longer required, consider deallocating (stopping) or deleting it to avoid unnecessary costs.
Deallocate the VM if you plan to use it in the future but don't need it running currently.
Delete the VM if it's no longer needed, ensuring that you have backed up any important data.
Note: This SOP provides a general overview of the process for creating a Windows VM in Azure. Depending on your specific requirements and Azure subscription plan, the steps and options may vary. Always refer to the Azure documentation for the most up-to-date and detailed instructions.