10 Quick Tips for Newbies to Learn Azure from a DevOps Perspective

In today's rapidly evolving tech landscape, mastering cloud platforms like Azure has become essential for both developers and those in the DevOps sphere. Azure offers a variety of tools and services that can significantly streamline application deployment and management. This guide provides ten quick tips to help you as a newbie grasp the essentials of Azure from a DevOps perspective.

Create a Roadmap

Before diving deep, familiarize yourself with Azure's core concepts, including its architecture, resource management, and the key services offered. Microsoft provides extensive documentation that is a great starting point. Take the time to read through these materials, as they lay the groundwork for using Azure effectively. A nice page I like that gives roadmaps can be found here

Focus on Azure DevOps

Azure DevOps is a vital subset of Azure that brings together various tools for continuous integration and delivery (CI/CD). Learning Azure DevOps will give you a robust understanding of how to implement development practices aligned with modern workflows. Explore its pipelines, repositories, and how it integrates with other Azure services.

Leverage Learning Platforms

Use Youtube first!

Several online learning platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, or Microsoft Learn offer courses specifically on Azure and Azure DevOps. Enrolling in a structured course tailored for beginners can provide a more comprehensive understanding while keeping you motivated. Always look for hands-on labs in these courses to facilitate a practical understanding.

Use Azure Sandbox Environment

A great way to learn is through experimentation. Microsoft frequently offers Azure free credits and a sandbox environment. Leverage these resources to practice deploying applications, managing resources, and using DevOps tools without the fear of incurring costs.

Join the Azure community

Being part of the Azure community can accelerate your learning. Forums, discussion boards, or social media groups focused on Azure provide platforms where you can ask questions, share experiences, and learn from both newbies and experts alike. Networking with professionals in the Azure space can open doors to valuable insights.

Build Personal Projects

Applying what you learn in real-world projects is one of the most effective ways to solidify your knowledge. Start small; build personal applications or automate tasks using Azure services. The hands-on experience will deepen your understanding and expose you to challenges that drive learning.

Engage with Documentation and Resource Guides

Azure’s official documentation is rich in information. It is essential to learn how to navigate it to find the specific resources you need. Regularly checking the documentation can also keep you updated with new features and best practices, which is vital in the fast-paced technology landscape.

Set Up Azure Monitoring Tools

Understanding how to monitor applications is crucial for any DevOps practitioner. Learn to use Azure Monitor, Application Insights, and Azure Log Analytics. Familiarity with these tools will help you analyze performance, troubleshoot issues, and maintain application reliability.

Attend Webinars and Workshops

Microsoft and various tech organizations conduct webinars and workshops. Attend these sessions to gain insights directly from Azure experts. These platforms are designed for interactive learning and can help clarify your doubts in real-time. There are a lot of free Webinars, you can join ours biweekly here

Keep Practicing and Stay Informed

Lastly, the tech world is always changing. Continue practicing your Azure skills, stay informed about new updates, and refine your knowledge. Engaging in continuous learning and remaining adaptable is key to building a successful career in Azure DevOps.

While diving into Azure as a newbie from a DevOps perspective may seem daunting, breaking down the learning process into manageable steps can make it more achievable. Utilize the resources and tips mentioned to foster a deeper understanding of Azure, making you well-equipped for your DevOps journey.