Azure Virtual Desktop VMs with custom apps

Question

Hi all, I am setting up a Win11 environment in AVD and am needing to install several apps while also keeping them updated. What is the best way to do this? Some of the apps include - Visual Studio Community Edition, VS Code, SSMS 2022, Notepad++, Azure Storage Explorer, etc. How do you guys typically do this?

Thanks!

Answer 1

Hi @AdamLowe-7183
You can create a custom image with all the required applications pre-installed. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/virtual-desktop/set-up-customize-master-image
Create an Azure Virtual Desktop image by using VM Image Builder and PowerShell
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/virtual-machines/windows/image-builder-virtual-desktop?source=recommendations

This approach can be time-consuming for once but it ensures that all the required applications are available in the environment.
Other method i can think of is Use a script or configuration management tool

You can use a script or configuration management tool like PowerShell DSC or Ansible to install and configure the required applications. This approach allows you to automate the installation and configuration process, making it easier to manage and update the applications.

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