How to Deploy Containers Using Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS): A Beginner-Friendly Guide

Diagram illustrating container deployment architecture with Kubernetes clusters, cloud integration, and networked cubes representing distributed services connected to a central cloud recycling icon. — Visual representation of cloud-based container orchestration and deployment using Kubernetes and Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS).

Introduction

Ever wondered how big apps like Instagram or Netflix stay online all the time? One of the secrets is something called “containers,” and many companies use tools like Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) to manage them. If you’ve heard the word “Kubernetes” before and felt confused, don’t worry — you’re not alone!

In this blog, we’ll explain what containers are, why AKS is useful, and how to deploy a container using Azure step by step. Whether you’re a student or a new cloud learner, you’ll understand how everything fits together.

1. What is Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS)?

Clear diagram showcasing Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) with containers, cloud synchronization, data flow between resources, and Azure infrastructure components, including storage and transport. — Simplified overview of container deployment workflow using Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS), highlighting integration points and container orchestration.

Kubernetes is a tool that helps manage groups of containers, like a coach managing players in a team. And Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) is Microsoft’s way of offering Kubernetes in the cloud, without needing to set up everything yourself.

🔹 Why use AKS?

Dynamic visualisation of cloud infrastructure with multiple containers scaling upwards, representing auto-scaling functionality in Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS), set against a futuristic digital background. — Illustration demonstrating automated container scaling and workload management in Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS).

It saves time by automating tasks

Handles container updates automatically

Balances the traffic if too many users come at once

Keeps apps running even when parts crash

🔍 Real-World Example:

A company runs a shopping website. During holiday sales, more users visit. AKS automatically adds more containers to handle the traffic. After the sale, it scales down again, saving money.

2. Prerequisites: What You Need to Get Started

Before you deploy, here’s what you need:

An Azure account

Docker is installed on your computer

A basic container image (we’ll use a simple web app example)

Azure CLI (Command Line Interface) installed

3. Step-by-Step: Deploying a Container to AKS

llustrative depiction showing containers connected by network nodes with YAML configuration scripts, highlighting the structured deployment process in Azure Kubernetes Service. — Deploying applications efficiently using YAML configurations in Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS).

Let’s keep it simple and walk through the process:

✅ Step 1: Create a Container Image

You can use Docker to build your container:

Screenshot showing a terminal command executing "docker build -t mywebapp ." to create a Docker image. — Building Docker container images for deployment.

✅ Step 2: Push to Azure Container Registry (ACR)

Screenshot displaying Azure CLI commands to create a container registry, tag a Docker image, and push the image to Azure Container Registry. — Creating an Azure Container Registry (ACR), tagging, and pushing Docker images for Kubernetes deployment.

✅ Step 3: Create the AKS Cluster

AZ Aks create --resource-group myResourceGroup --name myAKSCluster --node-count 1 --enable-addons monitoring --generate-ssh-keys

✅ Step 4: Connect to AKS

Screenshot showing the command "az aks get-credentials" executed in Azure CLI to obtain AKS cluster access credentials. — Retrieving Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) credentials for container orchestration.

✅ Step 5: Deploy the App Using YAML

Create a file called deployment.yaml:

Screenshot of a YAML deployment file specifying container configurations, including image source, replicas, and port details for a Kubernetes deployment. — YAML configuration file used for deploying containers to Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS).

Apply the deployment:

Screenshot showing the "kubectl apply -f deployment.yaml" command in a terminal, deploying container applications based on YAML configurations to Kubernetes. — Applying Kubernetes deployment configurations with kubectl.

4. Common Questions About AKS (And Answers!)

❓ Do I need to know Kubernetes deeply to use AKS?

Nope! Azure simplifies many things for you. Start small and learn as you go.

❓ Is it expensive?

You only pay for what you use. AKS can even shut down unused containers.

❓ Can I connect AKS with GitHub?

Yes! Azure DevOps or GitHub Actions can automate deployment directly to AKS.

5. Personal Insights

From my experience helping IT teams and students build real-world cloud apps, AKS is one of the most efficient tools available for running containerised applications. I often recommend it to clients who want speed, security, and scalability without spending hours on setup.

I’ve helped businesses migrate from traditional servers to AKS, improving performance and reducing costs — and you can too, even as a beginner.

Conclusion

Azure Kubernetes Service makes deploying containers simple, secure, and scalable — even for beginners. Whether you’re testing your first app or deploying for a real client, AKS is a powerful tool to add to your toolkit.

🔔 Now that you’ve got the steps, why wait? Start your container journey today with Azure!

✅ Ready to Deploy Containers with Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS)?

Unlock the full potential of Azure Kubernetes Service to efficiently manage your containerised applications, scale seamlessly, and enhance performance. Whether you're new to containers or looking to optimise your current deployment, AKS provides the perfect solution for simplifying your cloud infrastructure.

Ratheesh Kumar

Certified Cloud Architect & DevOps Expert

📞 Ph: +91 94463 30906