Create a Serverless API using Azure Functions

Azure is a public cloud computing platform. Azure can be used for many purposes, such as analytics, virtual computing, and networking. In particular, Azure gives users the option to create a serverless API. A serverless API can be created using an Azure function app. Function apps are small pieces of code that can be executed using the built-in Azure infrastructure. Function apps let you run your code without having to create a virtual machine (VM) or publish a web application.

There are many benefits to using Function apps. They can be triggered by different events, such as changes in data or HTTP requests. Serverless computing via Functions reduces the operational strain found in traditional cloud hosting environments, due to the reduction of traditional server maintenance and increased automation.

Given its powerful toolset and rising popularity, it is prudent for modern IT workers to be comfortable working with Azure and have experience creating Azure Functions. This hands-on lab will give you valuable experience building serverless APIs with Azure Functions.

Understand the scenario: You are an Azure developer for a company that is migrating its primary web app from its on-premise datacenter to Azure. You need to create and deploy a serverless API using Azure Functions.

Understand the environment: You are provided with an Azure resource group that initially contains no resources. You will create the necessary resources to complete this challenge.

Create an Azure Function App:

The first step of this hands-on challenge is to create your Azure Function app. You will:

• Use the Azure portal to create a Function app.
• Create a new function using the Webhook + API scenario.
• Test your new function using its URL.
• Use the function logs to track the function’s usage.

Customize the HTTP Function:

Next, you will edit your function to a given set of settings. You will:

• Use the Integrate page to change the function’s values.
• Test your function using its URL.
• Test your function by running it from the Azure portal.

Create an Azure Function Proxy:

For the last step of this virtual lab, you will create a new Azure Function proxy. You will:

• Create a new Function app using the Azure portal.
• Customize the app’s settings.
• Create a proxy within the new Function app.
• Test your proxy using its URL.

Summary:

Azure Function apps can be used to create serverless APIs. These Functions enable businesses to move their primary web hosting to the cloud and reduce the number of on-site servers. These Functions also allow system and network administrators to automate common tasks based on certain triggers. This hands-on lab will give you real-world experience developing Azure Function apps for serverless computing.

In the “Create a Serverless API using Azure Functions” virtual lab, you will accomplish the following:

• Create and test an Azure Function app.
• Customize the Function app.
• Create and test an Azure Function proxy.

Other Challenges in this series:

• GUIDED CHALLENGE: Deploy Workloads on Azure Resource Manager (ARM) Virtual Machines (VMs)
• GUIDED CHALLENGE: Monitor ARM VMs