How to Start a VM in Azure: Simple Steps and Commands

To start a VM in Azure, use the az vm start command in Azure CLI or the Start-AzVM cmdlet in PowerShell. You can also start the VM from the Azure Portal by selecting the VM and clicking the Start button.

Syntax

Here are the main ways to start a VM in Azure:

• Azure CLI: az vm start --resource-group <group-name> --name <vm-name>
• PowerShell: Start-AzVM -ResourceGroupName <group-name> -Name <vm-name>
• Azure Portal: Navigate to your VM, then click the Start button.

Replace <group-name> with your resource group name and <vm-name> with your VM's name.

bash

az vm start --resource-group MyResourceGroup --name MyVM

Example

This example shows how to start a VM named MyVM in the resource group MyResourceGroup using Azure CLI.

bash

az vm start --resource-group MyResourceGroup --name MyVM

Output

Starting virtual machine 'MyVM'...
Succeeded

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when starting a VM in Azure include:

• Using the wrong resource group or VM name, causing errors.
• Trying to start a VM that is already running.
• Not having sufficient permissions to start the VM.
• Forgetting to login to Azure CLI or PowerShell before running commands.

Always verify your VM status and login before starting.

bash

az vm start --resource-group WrongGroup --name MyVM
# Error: Resource group not found

# Correct usage:
az login
az vm start --resource-group MyResourceGroup --name MyVM

Quick Reference

Summary tips for starting a VM in Azure:

• Use az vm start for CLI or Start-AzVM for PowerShell.
• Always specify the correct resource group and VM name.
• Check VM status with az vm show or Azure Portal before starting.
• Ensure you are logged in and have permissions.

Key Takeaways

Use the Azure CLI command az vm start or PowerShell Start-AzVM to start your VM.

Always specify the correct resource group and VM name to avoid errors.

Check your VM's current status before starting to prevent redundant actions.

Ensure you are logged in to Azure and have the necessary permissions.

You can also start your VM easily from the Azure Portal with a click.