Step-by-Step Guide: Set up Azure Virtual Desktops

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Creating the Resource Group
3. Creating the Virtual Network
4. Creating the Host Pool
5. Assigning User Permissions
6. Configuring RDP Access
7. Creating the Workspace
8. Connecting to the Virtual Desktop
9. Benefits of Azure Virtual Desktops
10. Limitations of Azure Virtual Desktops

Introduction

Azure Virtual Desktops is a cloud-based service provided by Microsoft that allows users to create virtual machines using client operating systems like Windows 10 or 11 inside the Azure services. In this article, we will explore how to create a virtual desktop in Azure step by step. We will cover the necessary configurations, permissions, and settings required to set up a virtual desktop environment. So let's get started!

Creating the Resource Group

The first step in creating an Azure virtual desktop is to create a resource group. A resource group acts as a container for all the resources that will be created within the Azure environment. By putting all the resources in the same resource group, it ensures better organization and management. To create a resource group, follow these steps:

1. Log in to the Azure portal (portal.azure.com).
2. Go to "All resources" to see a list of all the resources.
3. Click on "Resource groups" and then click on "Add".
4. Enter the name for the resource group, such as "Virtual Desktop Group".
5. Choose the region where you want to deploy the resources.
6. Click on "Review + Create" and then click on "Create".
7. Wait for the resource group to be created.

Creating the Virtual Network

The next step is to create a virtual network in Azure. A virtual network allows you to securely connect your virtual machines and other Azure resources together. To create a virtual network, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Azure portal and search for "Virtual Networks".
2. Click on "Virtual Networks" and then click on "Add".
3. Select the resource group you created in the previous step.
4. Enter a name for the virtual network, such as "Virtual Desktop Network".
5. Choose the IP address range and subnet for the virtual network.
6. Click on "Review + Create" and then click on "Create".
7. Wait for the virtual network to be created.

Creating the Host Pool

Now it's time to create a host pool. A host pool is a collection of Azure virtual machines that users can connect to and access their virtual desktops. To create a host pool, follow these steps:

1. Go back to the Azure portal and search for "Azure Virtual Desktop".
2. Click on "Create a host pool" and enter the required information.
3. Choose the resource group and virtual network you created earlier.
4. Enter a name for the host pool, such as "Jump In".
5. Select the location and validation environment for the host pool.
6. Choose the preferred app group type and pool type.
7. Configure the load-balancing options and maximum number of users per session.
8. Decide whether to create a virtual machine now or later.
9. Select the image and hardware specifications for the virtual machine.
10. Configure the virtual network and enable RDP access if necessary.
11. Click on "Review + Create" and then click on "Create".
12. Wait for the host pool to be created.

Assigning User Permissions

After creating the host pool, you need to assign user permissions to allow them access to the virtual desktops. Follow these steps to assign user permissions:

1. Go to the Azure portal and click on "Application groups" under the host pool.
2. Click on "Assignments" and then click on "Add".
3. Select the users or groups you want to assign permissions to.
4. Click on "Review + Add" and then click on "Add".
5. Repeat the process for any additional user assignments.

Configuring RDP Access

To allow remote access to the virtual desktops, you need to configure RDP access. Follow these steps to configure RDP access:

1. Go to the host pool in the Azure portal.
2. Click on "Overview" and then click on "Virtual machine" under "Virtual Desktop Virtual Machines".
3. Scroll down to the Properties section and click on "Configuration".
4. Paste the provided RDP access configuration at the end.
5. Click on "Save" to apply the changes.

Creating the Workspace

Next, you need to create a workspace. A workspace is what users will see when they log in to their virtual desktops. To create a workspace, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Azure portal and click on "Workspaces" under the host pool.
2. Click on "Create a workspace" and enter the required information.
3. Select the resource group and virtual network.
4. Enter a name for the workspace, such as "Virtual Desktop Workspace".
5. Click on "Review + Create" and then click on "Create".

Connecting to the Virtual Desktop

Once everything is set up, you can connect to the virtual desktop. Follow these steps to connect to the virtual desktop:

1. Copy the URL provided in the Azure portal for the virtual desktop.
2. Open a web browser and paste the URL.
3. Log in using your username and password.
4. Access your virtual desktop and start using it.

Benefits of Azure Virtual Desktops

• Flexibility: Azure virtual desktops allow you to access your desktop and applications from anywhere, using any device.
• Scalability: You can easily scale up or down the number of virtual desktops based on your needs.
• Cost-effectiveness: By moving to a cloud-based virtual desktop environment, you can reduce hardware costs and only pay for the resources you use.
• Security: Azure provides robust security features to protect your virtual desktops and data.

Limitations of Azure Virtual Desktops

• Licensing: You need to have the appropriate licensing for Windows and any applications you want to use in the virtual desktop environment.
• Network connectivity: A stable and reliable internet connection is essential for accessing Azure virtual desktops.
• Resource limitations: Depending on your Azure subscription, there may be limitations on the number of virtual desktops or resources you can create.
• Management complexity: Setting up and managing Azure virtual desktops can be complex, especially for users with limited technical expertise.

That's it! You have now successfully set up an Azure virtual desktop environment. Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of accessing your desktop and applications from anywhere. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to refer to the resources provided below.