How to use Azure Resource Manager templates

· Category: Cloud Computing

Short answer

Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates and Bicep provide declarative infrastructure deployment on Azure.

Steps

  1. Write a Bicep file (main.bicep):
resource storage 'Microsoft.Storage/storageAccounts@2021-04-01' = {
  name: 'mystorage'
  location: resourceGroup().location
  sku: { name: 'Standard_LRS' }
  kind: 'StorageV2'
}
  1. Deploy:
az deployment group create --resource-group myRG --template-file main.bicep

Tips

  • Bicep compiles to ARM JSON and is easier to read and write.
  • Use modules for reusable components.
  • Parameter files separate environment-specific values.

Common issues

  • Template validation passes but deployment fails due to naming conflicts or quota limits.
  • Understanding the Azure resource provider API versions is essential.