Lab 09b: Implement Azure Container Instances

Objective: This lab demonstrates how to deploy and test a containerized web application using Azure Container Instances (ACI).

Scenario: Your organization is evaluating Azure Container Instances as a solution for deploying a web application to the cloud without managing virtual machines. This is part of a broader effort to reduce infrastructure management overhead.

Key Concepts:

• Azure Container Instances (ACI): A serverless compute service for running containers directly on Azure. It's ideal for simple applications, task automation, and build jobs, removing the need to manage underlying VMs.

• Docker Image: A package containing an application and its dependencies, ensuring consistent execution across different environments.

• Container Group: A collection of containers scheduled together on the same host in ACI. This lab uses a single-container group.

Job skills

• Task 1: Deploy an Azure Container Instance using a Docker image.

• Task 2: Test and verify deployment of an Azure Container Instance.

Lab Tasks:

Task 1: Deploy an Azure Container Instance

1. Sign In: Log in to the Azure portal (https://portal.azure.com).

2. Create Container Instance: Search for and select "Container instances." and click "+ Create."

   • Basics:

     • Container name: az104-c1

     • Image source: Quickstart images

     • Image: mcr.microsoft.com/azuredocs/aci-helloworld:latest (Linux)

   • Networking: DNS name label: (Enter a globally unique name. This forms your container's public URL.) If you receive an error, try a different name.

   • Monitoring: Uncheck Enable container instance logs. (Simplifies the lab; you can explore logging later.)

   • Advanced: Accept the defaults then review + create**:** Verify the settings and click "Create.

3. Wait for Deployment: Allow 2-3 minutes for the deployment to complete.

Task 2: Test and Verify Deployment

1. Go to Resource: On the "Overview" blade, confirm the "Status" is Running.

2. Access the Application:

   • Copy the FQDN from the "Overview" blade.

• Open a new browser tab and paste the FQDN. You should see the "Welcome to Azure Container Instances" page.

3. View Logs (Optional):

   • In your container instance, under "Settings," select "Containers."

   • Select "Logs."

   • You should see HTTP request logs from your browser. Refresh the web page a few times to generate more log entries.

Cleanup (Crucial):

• Delete the az104-rg9-lod48969906 resource group to remove all lab resources. This prevents ongoing charges.