Managing virtual machines (VMs) across hybrid environments can be complex without the right tools. Enter Azure Arc VM Management, a solution designed to simplify VM management by seamlessly integrating on-premises infrastructure with the Azure cloud.
At AVASOFT, we specialize in delivering comprehensive Microsoft 365 and Azure solutions, including expertise in deploying and managing Azure Arc VM Management. Our solutions enable organizations to leverage the full potential of hybrid infrastructure while optimizing operations and enhancing security.
What is Azure Arc VM management?
Azure Arc VM Management empowers IT administrators to provision and manage both Windows and Linux VMs hosted on on-premises Azure Local environments. With Arc, you can:
- Create, modify, and delete VMs.
- Assign roles and permissions using role-based access control (RBAC).
- Leverage self-service capabilities to reduce administrative overhead.
The real power of Azure Arc VM Management lies in its integration with Azure’s management tools, such as the Azure portal, Azure CLI, Azure PowerShell, and Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates. These tools allow you to automate VM provisioning and manage your hybrid infrastructure through a unified interface.
Key benefits of Azure Arc VM management
Azure Arc VM Management offers significant advantages over traditional on-premises tools like Hyper-V, enhancing the efficiency and security of your hybrid environment.
1. Centralized Management via Azure Portal
Azure Arc provides a single pane of glass to manage both on-premises VMs and Azure-hosted VMs. Through the Azure portal or CLI, you can:
- Create, update, and delete VMs.
- Manage VM resources such as disks, logical networks, and network interfaces.
This centralized visibility simplifies operations and ensures consistent management practices across environments.
2. Enhanced security with RBAC
Azure Arc VM Management incorporates built-in RBAC roles, ensuring that only authorized users can perform management tasks. By restricting access, it helps organizations enhance their overall security posture.
3. Automation and flexibility
The ability to deploy VMs using ARM templates, Bicep, and Terraform ensures streamlined and automated provisioning. This flexibility allows businesses to scale operations while maintaining compliance with best practices.
4. Self-service capabilities
Arc’s self-service model enables app owners to manage their VMs without relying on IT teams for every task. This reduces administrative overhead, allowing IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives.
Components of Azure Arc VM management
Azure Arc VM Management is powered by three key components, seamlessly connecting on-premises infrastructure to the Azure cloud:
1. Arc Resource Bridge
A lightweight Kubernetes VM, the Arc Resource Bridge acts as the link between Azure Local and the Azure Cloud. It is deployed automatically during the Azure Local setup and enables Azure’s management capabilities for on-premises VMs.
2. Custom Location
Custom locations are created automatically during Azure Local deployment. These user-defined locations allow you to deploy Azure services and manage VMs within your on-premises environment, integrating local infrastructure with Azure’s ecosystem.
3. Kubernetes Extension for VM Operator
The VM Operator acts as an on-premises counterpart to Azure Resource Manager. It uses custom Kubernetes resources to manage VM operations, ensuring smooth hybrid integration.
Workflow: how Azure Arc VM management works
Here’s a high-level overview of how Azure Arc VM Management operates:
1. Deployment
- a. When you deploy Azure Local, an Arc Resource Bridge and custom location are created for each cluster.
2. Role Assignment
- a. Built-in RBAC roles are assigned to enable secure VM management.
3. Resource Creation
- a. Create VM resources such as:
- Storage paths for VM disks.
- VM images from Azure Marketplace, Azure Storage accounts, or local shares.
- Logical networks and VM network interfaces.
4. VM Deployment
- a. Use the created resources to provision VMs, either through the Azure portal, CLI, or automation templates.
This streamlined workflow ensures efficient management of on-premises VMs using familiar Azure tools.
Addressing limitations
While Azure Arc VM Management provides significant benefits, there are a few limitations to keep in mind:
- Checkpoint Limitations: Creating checkpoints using tools like Windows Admin Center or Hyper-V Manager can affect management of Arc VMs via Azure.
- Configuration Updates: Changes to vCPU, memory, or network configurations made through on-premises tools won’t reflect in the Azure management plane.
- Image Compatibility: Provisioning VMs using Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 images via Azure portal isn’t supported; CLI must be used instead.
At AVASOFT, we help you navigate these limitations and ensure seamless management of your hybrid infrastructure.
Why choose AVASOFT for Azure Arc VM management?
As a trusted Microsoft Partner with expertise in Microsoft 365 and Azure solutions, AVASOFT empowers organizations to:
- Deploy and configure Azure Arc VM Management tailored to their business needs.
- Integrate on-premises and cloud infrastructure for unified operations.
- Leverage automation and RBAC to enhance efficiency and security.
- Proactively address challenges and limitations for smooth hybrid cloud management.
Our solutions are designed to help businesses optimize their hybrid cloud environments while ensuring operational excellence.
Transform your Hybrid Cloud strategy with AVASOFT
Azure Arc VM Management bridges the gap between on-premises and cloud environments, offering centralized management, enhanced security, and greater flexibility.
Ready to streamline your hybrid cloud operations? Contact AVASOFT today to explore how our expertise in Microsoft 365 and Azure solutions can help you maximize the potential of Azure Arc VM Management.
