Setting Up an Azure HCI Environment: A Fun and Secure Journey

Step 1: Prepare Your Environment

Before you start, make sure you have the necessary hardware and network requirements. Azure Stack HCI requires:

• Validated hardware: Check the Azure Stack HCI Catalog for compatible solutions.
• Network setup: Ensure a reliable, high-bandwidth, low-latency network connection.
• Active Directory: Prepare your AD environment with necessary OUs and accounts¹.

Step 2: Install Azure Stack HCI

1. Download the OS: Get the Azure Stack HCI operating system from the Azure portal.
2. Install the OS: Use the Install Azure Stack HCI wizard to set up the OS on your servers. Follow the prompts to complete the installation¹.
3. Configure the OS: Use the Server Configuration tool (SConfig) to perform initial setup tasks like setting the administrator password and configuring network settings¹.

Step 3: Create the HCI Cluster

1. Install Windows Admin Center: This web-based tool simplifies cluster creation and management.
2. Add Servers: Connect your servers to Windows Admin Center.
3. Create the Cluster: Use the New-Cluster PowerShell cmdlet or Windows Admin Center to create your HCI cluster. Enable Storage Spaces Direct for shared storage².

Step 4: Encrypt Your Data

To keep your data safe, encryption is key:

• Volume Encryption: Use Azure Stack HCI’s built-in encryption features. Navigate to the Volumes page in Windows Admin Center, select your volume, and enable encryption³.
• SMB Encryption: For data in transit, enable SMB encryption using AES-256-GCM or AES-256-CCM cryptographic suites⁴.

Step 5: Integrate Azure Site Recovery

Azure Site Recovery (ASR) ensures your VMs are protected in case of a disaster:

1. Register Your Cluster: Make sure your Azure Stack HCI cluster is registered with Azure.
2. Enable ASR: In the Azure portal, navigate to your HCI resource and enable Azure Site Recovery⁵.
3. Create Resources: Set up a Recovery Services vault, Hyper-V site, and replication policy.
4. Enable Replication: Configure VM replication to Azure. You can manage failover and failback directly from the Azure portal⁵.

Wrapping Up

Setting up an Azure HCI environment is like building a fortress for your data. With the right hardware, secure encryption, and robust disaster recovery, you’ll have a resilient and efficient infrastructure. Enjoy your journey into the world of Azure HCI, and remember, every step you take is a step towards a more secure and reliable IT environment!