How to Create and Connect to a Linux VM Using a Public Key

What is a Linux Virtual Machine?

A Virtual Machine (VM) is like a computer in the cloud. In this case, we’ll be creating a Linux-based VM, which can run distributions like Ubuntu, CentOS, or Red Hat. Instead of managing physical hardware, you can use Azure to deploy and manage your Linux VM securely.

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Step 1: Create a Linux VM in Azure

Now, let’s create the Linux VM in Azure.

1. Sign in to Azure Portal: Go to the Azure Portal and log in with your credentials.

2. Click “Create a Resource”: In the left-hand menu, click “Create a resource”.
   

3. Select “Virtual Machine”: Choose the option and click “Create.”

1. Configure Basics:
   • Subscription: Select your subscription.
   • Resource Group: Create a new one or use an existing one.
   • Virtual Machine Name: Enter a name.

• Region: Choose the region closest to you.
• Image: Select a Linux distribution.

• Authentication Type: Choose “SSH public key.”
• Username: Enter a username.

• SSH Key Type: Select "RSA SSH Format".
• Select inbound ports: Select "HTTP(80), SSH(22)".

1. Configure Networking: Leave the default settings unless you need custom configurations.
2. Review + Create: Review all settings and click “Create” to start deploying your VM.

Step 3: Wait for Deployment and Download private key

Azure will take a few minutes to create your VM. Once the deployment is complete, you’ll see a notification saying, “Your deployment is complete.”

Step 4: Connect to Your Linux VM

Now that your VM is deployed, let’s connect to it using SSH.

1. Connect via SSH:

   • Open a terminal (on macOS/Linux) or a tool like PuTTY/Windows Terminal (on Windows).
   • Run the following command:

    ssh azureuser@<Public-IP-Address>
   

   Replace <Public-IP-Address> with the actual IP address of your VM and azureuser with the username you configured earlier.

1. Authenticate:
   • If you set a passphrase for your private key, you’ll be prompted to enter it.
   • Once authenticated, you’ll see the Linux shell prompt, and you’re now connected to your VM!

Step 5: Manage and Delete Your VM

When you’re done using your VM, it’s important to manage it properly to avoid unnecessary costs.

1. Stop the VM: To save costs, stop the VM when you’re not using it. You can do this from the Azure Portal by clicking “Stop” on the VM overview page.
2. Delete the VM: If you no longer need the VM, delete it to stop incurring charges. Make sure to also delete associated resources like disks and network interfaces.

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Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully created and connected to a Linux Virtual Machine on Microsoft Azure using a public key. This method is secure, efficient, and widely used in cloud environments. Whether you’re testing applications, running scripts, or learning Linux, Azure provides a flexible and powerful platform to meet your needs.

Keep experimenting with Azure’s features, and soon you’ll feel confident managing cloud resources!.