Azure management tools

Teach

Azure offers several management interfaces so you can administer resources however you prefer — visually or as code.

Management interfaces

• Azure portal — web-based graphical UI for visually creating, configuring, and monitoring resources. Best for exploration and one-off tasks.
• Azure CLI — cross-platform command-line tool using simple az commands; ideal for scripting and automation (Bash-friendly).
• Azure PowerShell — command-line via cmdlets (Az module); great for Windows admins and PowerShell scripts.
• Azure Cloud Shell — a browser-based shell (Bash or PowerShell) preauthenticated and preinstalled with the CLI and tools — no local setup.
• Azure mobile app — monitor resources, check health, and run quick actions from a phone.

CLI and PowerShell are functionally similar; choose by scripting preference. Cloud Shell lets you run either from anywhere.

Azure Advisor

Azure Advisor is a free, personalized recommendation service that analyzes your configuration and usage, then suggests improvements across five categories:

• Cost — reduce spend (e.g., resize/shut down idle VMs).
• Security — improve posture (integrates with Microsoft Defender for Cloud).
• Reliability — improve resilience and availability.
• Operational excellence — process and best-practice improvements.
• Performance — speed and responsiveness.

Quick decision checkpoints

1. Exploring or doing a one-off change? Use the portal.
2. Automating or scripting? Use CLI or PowerShell.
3. No local tools installed? Use Cloud Shell.
4. Want proactive improvement tips? Check Azure Advisor.

Pick the interface that fits the task, and let Advisor guide optimizations.