Learning note: This guide is educational and intended as a practical starting point. Interfaces, features and pricing can change; verify critical steps against official product documentation.
Understand costs first
You need an Azure subscription and suitable permissions. Review the VM size, storage and networking estimates; services may incur charges.
Create a resource group
In the Azure portal, search for Resource groups and choose Create. Pick the right subscription, region and a descriptive name.
Configure the virtual machine
Go to Virtual machines → Create. Select the resource group, image, size and authentication method. Avoid oversizing a practice VM.
Limit exposure
Prefer Azure Bastion or tightly controlled remote access. Do not expose RDP to the entire internet.
Clean up the lab
Stopping a VM does not necessarily remove all costs. When finished, delete the practice resource group after confirming nothing else depends on it.
Keep learning
Ready for the next topic? Browse the latest GenTekLearn guides or explore another learning path.