Can anyone explain the key differences between Azure Virtual Machines and Azure App Service, and provide guidance on when to choose one over the other for hosting applications?

Question

When considering Microsoft Azure as the platform for hosting your applications, it's essential to understand the distinctions between two prominent options: Azure Virtual Machines (VMs) and Azure App Service. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and considerations, catering to different application requirements and development approaches.

Answer 1

Hey Chamoda,

When you're deciding between Azure Virtual Machines (VMs) and Azure App Service for hosting, here's a quick breakdown to help:

Azure Virtual Machines:

What are they? Essentially, they're like your own personal computer but in the cloud. You have full control from the OS up to the apps.

When to use them? Go for VMs if you need that deep level of control, especially if you're migrating older apps that have specific needs or if you’re familiar with managing your own environment.

Azure App Service:

What are they? Think of it as a streamlined service for web apps and APIs. They manage a lot of the nitty-gritty for you.

When to use them? Choose App Service if you're building web apps and want Azure to handle the infrastructure stuff, like scaling. It's great when you want to focus more on the code and less on the setup.

Quick Tips on Deciding:

• Complexity If you need to micromanage every detail, VMs are your friend. Want things a bit simpler? App Service.
• Cost: VMs can be pricier since they're always on, even when idle. App Service might be more wallet-friendly based on your usage.
• Migration: Got an old app to move? VMs might be easier.

Hope this helps clarify things a bit. If not, let me know and il delve into more detail