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Customize an Azure Linux VM with Cloud-init

This hands-on lab will demonstrate how to create an automated startup configuration file to pass into VMs using cloud-init. **Cloud-init** is an open-source tool for Linux cloud VMs, which has native support in Azure. It is important to note that cloud-init configuration is NOT in the form of a shell script, but uses modules in YAML syntax, which can be a learning curve for those used to shell scripting. The lab's primary focus will concentrate on formatting our configuration file. Mastering cloud-init enables automation in VM configuration, which is essential for auto-scaling services such as VM Scale Sets.

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Path Info

Level
Clock icon Intermediate
Duration
Clock icon 45m
Last updated
Clock icon Aug 23, 2025

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Table of Contents

  1. Challenge

    Create First VM via Command Line and Pass in cloud-init Configuration File

    1. Create and pass in the configuration file as custom data.
    2. Create the VM.
    3. Open port 80.
    4. Change the resource group field to your unique lab resource group.

  2. Challenge

    Create Second VM via Web Portal and Pass in cloud-init Configuration File

    1. Be sure to use an Ubuntu distribution.
    2. Copy/paste the contents of the configuration file in the Custom Data field.
Pluralsight Skills - Labs - Pluralsight
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Pluralsight Skills

Pluralsight Skills gives leaders confidence they have the skills needed to execute technology strategy. Technology teams can benchmark expertise across roles, speed up release cycles and build reliable, secure products. By leveraging our expert content, skill assessments and one-of-a-kind analytics, keep up with the pace of change, put the right people on the right projects and boost productivity. It's the most effective path to developing tech skills at scale.

What's a lab?

Hands-on Labs are real environments created by industry experts to help you learn. These environments help you gain knowledge and experience, practice without compromising your system, test without risk, destroy without fear, and let you learn from your mistakes. Hands-on Labs: practice your skills before delivering in the real world.

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We will provide the credentials and environment necessary for you to practice right within your browser.

Guided walkthrough

Follow along with the author’s guided walkthrough and build something new in your provided environment!

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On average, you retain 75% more of your learning if you get time for practice.
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