High-level steps to automate custom image using image builder

Question

I have images you can see below in the build gallery, We frequently create a VM from existing image and then install software's and we prepare new custom image and it goes on. I would like to use Azure Image builder for automating this process. I am really not sure where to start, could you please provide high-level detailed steps to achieve that.

Answer 1

Hi @Varma , Thanks for contacting Microsoft Q&A platform.
Using Azure Image Builder to automate the process of creating custom VM images can greatly streamline your workflow. Below are high-level steps to get you started: 1. Prepare Your VM Configuration:
·  Make sure your VM configuration is ready with the necessary software and configurations.
·  Ensure that the VM is generalized using Sysprep or a similar tool to remove unique information.
2. Create a Shared Image Gallery (Optional):
·  If you haven't already, create a Shared Image Gallery in Azure, which is a repository for storing and managing VM images.
3. Set up Azure Image Builder Service:
·  Navigate to the Azure portal.
·  In the left sidebar, go to "Create a resource" and search for "Image Builder Template".
·  Create a new Image Builder Template resource.
4. Configure the Image Builder Template:
·  Define the source image: Specify the image reference, either from the Shared Image Gallery or a managed image.
·  Define customization: Add customizations using an image template. ·  You can use Custom Script Extension or other built-in customizers.
·  Specify the scripts or configurations to be applied during image creation. 5. Define Image Template:
·  Create an Azure Image Template that defines the customization steps. ·  Specify the source image and add customizations, such as installing software, configuring settings, etc.
6. Configure Image Build: ·  In the Image Builder Template, configure the image build settings. ·   Specify the output destination, which could be a Shared Image Gallery or a managed image.
7. Run Image Build:
·  Trigger the image build process either through the Azure portal, Azure CLI, or Azure PowerShell. ·  Monitor the build process in the Azure portal or using Azure Monitor. 8. Review and Deploy the Custom Image: ·  Once the image build is complete, review the image in the specified destination.
·  Deploy VMs using the custom image to validate its correctness.

Hope this helps you.