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In order to set up your first virtual machine (VM) on Microsoft Azure cloud, you first need to create a new Microsoft Azure account. Setting one up is very easy — just follow the steps below (depending on where you are, your screens may look a little different.)
Microsoft Azure offers a free 30-day trial period to all new account holders.
Go to https://www.azure.com and click the green “Start free” button.
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Next, click another “Start free” button.
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If you already have an account with Microsoft, for example, Microsoft 365, you’ll be prompted to log in.
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When you log in, some of your details may already be there.
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Follow the prompts to verify your account by phone (I used SMS).
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You’ll also need to supply a valid credit card. Prepaid credit cards won’t work — you’ll need a “normal” credit or debit card. There is no charge involved with the setting up of a trial account. Microsoft just wants to see your card to verify your identity. There will be, however, a record for a $0 transaction on your bank statement. In my bank it looks like this:
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Next – tick “I agree” and click “Sign Up.”
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Within a few seconds, your account will be ready.
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That’s it! Your Microsoft Azure account has been created.
To continue, click the “My Account” link at the top right corner or go straight to the Microsoft Azure Portal: https://portal.azure.com/
NEXT: How to create Windows and Linux virtual machines (VM) in Microsoft Azure
About Acronis
A Swiss company founded in Singapore in 2003, Acronis has 15 offices worldwide and employees in 50+ countries. Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud is available in 26 languages in 150 countries and is used by over 20,000 service providers to protect over 750,000 businesses.