How To Set Up Site-to-Site VPN Connections In The Azure Portal

When you want to use IP replication between the recovery site and the on-premises production site, you must configure a site-to-site VPN connection. Before establishing the connection, there are some things to prepare first.

This article covers the prerequisites and steps to create a virtual private gateway, local network gateway, and VPN connection.

First, let’s look at the portal: Microsoft Azure, a popular option in cloud computing.

Understanding Microsoft Azure

Microsoft Azure is a flexible cloud service. Many companies have chosen it for their primary needs. Every tool and service it offers works with all types of open-source technology, giving users flexibility with their tools and technology.

Microsoft’s official page describes Azure as a public cloud computing service. It provides various cloud services, including analysis tools, networking, and data storage.

Each user can develop and scale new applications or run existing ones on this public cloud. Azure helps businesses manage challenges and achieve their goals.

Azure offers tools that support different industries, from finance and e-commerce to Fortune 500 companies. Its services work with all types of open-source technology, giving users flexibility.

Azure also offers four types of computing: IaaS (infrastructure as a service), PaaS (Platform as a service), SaaS (software as a service), and serverless services.

Azure charges users on a pay-as-you-go basis. Customers only pay for the resources they use.

Features

Azure works simply: subscribe, choose a package, and get access to all features. Using Azure is also straightforward. Here are the three most frequently used features:

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

This is the most basic function of Azure. You do not need to create servers and virtual machines to operate applications and websites.

Platform as a Service (PaaS)

One function of Azure is to develop, test, deliver, and maintain applications or web software. With this feature, you do not need to manage details like databases and data storage.

Software as a Service (SaaS)

Software as a Service helps you deliver software applications over the internet. This service provides hosting and manages the software.

The Benefits

Implement data backup and post-crisis recovery plans

According to CCB Technology, Azure is effective for backing up important data and post-crisis recovery. It is flexible for planning site recovery.

Azure can back up company data with support for almost all languages worldwide. Users can set the frequency and schedule of data backups. Not all cloud services have this capability.

Hosting and developing applications

Azure provides a hosting platform for developing or managing websites or software. It offers AutoScale management, patches, and an integrated system.

Companies can save time managing infrastructure and focus on developing their applications. Azure includes a deployment support system that helps developers simplify code updates.

Industrial IoT solutions

According to Tech Target, Azure lets companies innovate with industrial Internet of Things (IoT) solutions.

Analysis can connect various devices to the cloud using a solution integrated with existing infrastructure. Analysts can collect new data about their company. Within Azure IoT Hub, analysts can manage and monitor thousands to billions of devices and get information for stakeholders making business decisions.

This service improves user experience, reduces system complexity risk, is cost-effective, and speeds up development.

Security in Azure is strong. The data centers have tight controls to protect user data and privacy.

If you’re using cloud computing, you probably worry about hacking attacks. Azure’s data centers are secure.

A dedicated VPN offers benefits for cloud access, including safer online access and less downtime. Setting up a VPN helps maintain a good online experience.

How To Set Up Site-to-Site VPN Connections In The Azure Portal

Now that you understand Azure and its benefits, here are the steps to set up a site-to-site VPN in the portal. First, understand the prerequisites.

Preparation

Before the next step, complete these prerequisites.

You need an Azure account. If you do not have one, create one for free. You also need a VPN device and someone who can configure it. If you know how, do it yourself.

Verify the IP address ranges for the VPN device. If you lack this information, ask someone who has it.

Creating Virtual Private Gateway

Follow these steps:

1. Access the Azure web page at portal.azure.com
2. Log in using an administrator or user profile
3. Search for Virtual Private Network
4. Click Create
5. Fill in the Subscription, Resource Group, and Name details
6. In the Public IP Address tab, you will see settings. Fill in the necessary data, including Configure BGP, Custom Azure APIPA BGP IP address, and Autonomous system number (ASN)
7. Click Review + Create
8. Select Create and wait for deployment (about 45 minutes)
9. Select VPN once the gateway is created
10. Confirm the deployment status on the Overview page

Creating Local Network Gateway

To create the local network gateway representing the on-premises network:

1. On the Azure main page, search for Local Network Gateway
2. Select Create
3. Enter the required information, including Name, Endpoint, IP address, and more
4. Click Create

Creating the VPN Connection

The final part. After completing the previous steps:

1. On the Azure portal, click Virtual Network and choose your VPN
2. On the Connected Devices page, select your virtual network gateway
3. Click the Connections tab, then select Add
4. On the Add Connections page, input the required information
5. Done