Plan and implement Azure virtual network connectivity

Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) is a powerful cloud-based virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) solution offered by Microsoft. To successfully configure and operate AVD, it is crucial to plan and implement Azure virtual network connectivity. In this article, we will explore the key steps involved in setting up Azure virtual network connectivity for AVD, following the guidelines provided by Microsoft. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Understand the Azure Virtual Network Architecture

Before implementing Azure virtual network connectivity for AVD, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the Azure Virtual Network architecture. Azure Virtual Network enables the creation of private network environments in Azure, which can be used to host AVD resources securely.

Azure Virtual Network consists of the following components:

• Virtual Network: A logical representation of an isolated network in Azure.
• Subnets: Segments of the Virtual Network that allow you to organize resources.
• Virtual Network Peering: Enables you to connect two virtual networks to leverage resources across them.
• Virtual Network Gateway: Acts as a bridge to connect Azure Virtual Network with on-premises networks or other Azure virtual networks.
• Virtual Network Service Endpoints: Extends the Virtual Network identity directly to the Azure service over a direct connection.

Step 2: Plan your Azure Virtual Network Topology

To design an efficient Azure Virtual Network topology for AVD, consider the following aspects:

• Subnet Design: Decide on the number of subnets required based on your AVD and organizational requirements. Consider creating separate subnets for AVD session hosts, gateways, and other resources.
• Address Space: Define the IP address space for your Azure Virtual Network, ensuring it does not overlap with other networks. Use CIDR notation to specify the address range.
• Connectivity: Determine how you want to connect your AVD deployment with on-premises networks or other Azure virtual networks. You can choose between Azure ExpressRoute, VPN Gateway, or Virtual Network Peering.

Step 3: Create the Azure Virtual Network

To create an Azure Virtual Network, perform the following steps:

1. Open the Azure portal.
2. Navigate to the “Virtual networks” page.
3. Click on the “Create” button and provide the required details like name, address space, and subnet details.
4. Review the settings and click on the “Create” button to create the Virtual Network.

Step 4: Configure Subnets

After creating the Virtual Network, you need to configure subnets to organize the AVD resources. To configure subnets, follow these steps:

1. Open the Azure portal.
2. Navigate to the “Virtual networks” page and select the desired Virtual Network.
3. Click on the “Subnets” option and then “+Subnet”.
4. Provide a subnet name, address range, and any additional settings as per your requirements.
5. Click on the “OK” button to create the subnet.

Repeat the above steps to create additional subnets, if needed, to meet your AVD deployment requirements.

Step 5: Configure Virtual Network Peering (Optional)

If you want to connect your AVD Virtual Network with other Azure Virtual Networks, you can set up virtual network peering. Virtual network peering allows resources in different networks to communicate with each other securely. To configure virtual network peering, follow these steps:

1. Open the Azure portal.
2. Navigate to the “Virtual networks” page and select the desired Virtual Network.
3. Click on the “Peerings” option and then “+Add”.
4. Provide the required details for the peering configuration, including the target Virtual Network and peering settings.
5. Review the settings and click on the “OK” button to create the virtual network peering.

Step 6: Configure Virtual Network Gateway (Optional)

To connect your AVD Virtual Network with on-premises networks or other Azure virtual networks, you can configure a Virtual Network Gateway. The Virtual Network Gateway acts as a bridge to enable secure connectivity. Configuring a Virtual Network Gateway involves multiple steps and requires careful planning. Please refer to the Microsoft documentation for detailed guidance on configuring a Virtual Network Gateway for AVD.

Conclusion

In this article, we discussed the key steps involved in planning and implementing Azure virtual network connectivity for Azure Virtual Desktop. By understanding the Azure Virtual Network architecture, planning your network topology, creating the Virtual Network, configuring subnets, and optionally setting up Virtual Network Peering and Virtual Network Gateway, you can ensure a secure and efficient AVD deployment. Follow the guidelines provided by Microsoft and refer to the official documentation for further details on advanced configurations. Now you are ready to configure and operate Azure Virtual Desktop successfully!