How to Create a Linux Virtual Machine in Azure Portal and Install Nginx

Creating a Linux virtual machine (VM) in Microsoft Azure is straightforward and a great way to get hands-on experience with cloud infrastructure. In this guide, you’ll also learn how to install and run the Nginx web server on your new VM.

☁️ Step 1: Log in to Azure Portal

Visit https://portal.azure.com and log in with your Microsoft account.

🔍 Step 2: Search for "Virtual Machines"

In the Azure Portal search bar, type Virtual Machines and select the service.

➕ Step 3: Create a Virtual Machine

Click "Create" > "Virtual machine".

🧩 Step 4: Configure the Basics

On the Basics tab, fill in the following:

• 
  Subscription: Select your active subscription.


• 
  Resource Group: Create or select a resource group.


• 
  Virtual Machine Name: Example: linux-nginx-vm
  


• 
  Region: Choose a location close to you.


• 
  Image: Select Ubuntu Server 20.04 LTS.


• 
  Size: Choose a small instance like Standard_B1s.


• 
  Authentication: Choose SSH public key or password.

⚠️ Make sure to allow HTTP and SSH ports in the “Inbound port rules.”

🔐 Step 6: Access the VM via SSH

Find your VM’s public IP address from the Azure dashboard. Then connect using your terminal:

bash

ssh azureuser@<your-public-ip>