How to Setup Azure SQL Server – Step by Step Guide

Setting up an Azure SQL Server is the first step before creating an Azure SQL Database. This guide shows you how to set up Azure SQL Server quickly using the Azure portal.

Pre-requisites to Setup Azure SQL Server

Before starting, ensure you have:

  • An active Azure subscription

  • Azure Portal access

  • A resource group ready

Step-by-Step Instructions to Setup Azure SQL Server

Step 1: Log in to Azure Portal

Step 2: Search for “SQL Server”

  • In the top search bar, type SQL Server.

  • Click on the SQL Server option that appears.

Setup Azure SQL Server - search for SQL server

Step 3: Click “+ Create” to 'Setup Azure SQL Server

  • On the SQL Server page, click the + Create button at the top
Start to setup Azure SQL Server by clicking create

Step 4: Fill in Basics

Under the Basics tab, fill in the following:

    • Subscription: Choose your active subscription

    • Resource Group: Select or create a resource group

    • Server Name: Enter a globally unique server name

  • Location: Choose your closest Azure region

Fill basic details to setup Azure SQL Server

Step 5: Set Admin Login & Password

  • Under Authentication, choose SQL Server Authentication

  • Enter an Admin Login (e.g., sqladmin)

  • Create and confirm a strong password

  • Save this information securely — you’ll use it to access the server and connect to databases

Choose SQL authentication to setup Azure SQL Server credentials

Step 6: Networking Configuration

  • Check Allow Azure services to access this server

Configure network settings to setup Azure SQL Server securely

Step 7: (Optional) Add Tags

  • Use key-value pairs to label your resource group (e.g., Environment: Dev, Owner: TeamSG).
setup Azure SQL Server add tags

Step 8: Review and Create

  • Click Review + Create.

  • Validate all entries and then click Create.

Review and confirm to setup Azure SQL Server

What’s Next After You Setup Azure SQL Server?

Once you successfully setup Azure SQL Server, the next step is to start building databases and integrating them with your applications or BI tools. You can:

  • Create SQL Databases directly in the same server

  • Integrate with Power BI, Logic Apps, or Data Factory for data operations

Conclusion – Final Thoughts on Setup Azure SQL Server

Setting up Azure SQL Server may seem complex at first, but by following these simple steps, you can create a scalable and secure server in minutes. From server creation to firewall configuration, each step ensures your SQL environment is ready for enterprise-grade data management.

Keep in mind:

  • Always secure your admin credentials

  • Monitor firewall rules

  • Use SQL authentication when connecting externally

Now that you’ve learned how to setup Azure SQL Server, you’re ready to move forward with building robust cloud-native database solutions.

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