Last Updated on August 7, 2025 by Arnav Sharma
Azure Verified Modules (AVM) is a transformative initiative by Microsoft, designed to align the deployment of Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) modules with the well-architected framework. This initiative is crucial for customers evolving from managing Azure resources directly through the portal to adopting IaC methods like Bicep, or Terraform. AVM represents a community-driven aspiration within Microsoft, aiming to provide and define standards for what a good infrastructure-as-code module looks like.
The Problem:
Modules: The Core of AVM
The AVM framework leverages popular languages like Bicep and Terraform, reflecting the technologies used by Microsoft’s customer base. It includes two types of modules:
- Resource Modules: These modules, acting as building blocks, set up single Azure services. For example, a resource module for a virtual machine provides a fully operational VM with all necessary components like network connections.
- Pattern Modules: These modules are comprehensive blueprints that combine multiple services to create complete solutions, such as an entire application landing environment, including load balancers, VMSS, and security features.
Bicep and Terraform Integration
AVM’s initial release prominently features Bicep and Terraform, aligning with the well-architected framework to ensure secure and reliable deployments. This integration enables customers to deploy Azure resources and architectural patterns consistently and efficiently.
- Bicep modules: Bicep Public Module Registry
- Terraform modules: HashiCorp Terraform Registry
A Unified IaC Approach
AVM introduces a unified approach to IaC, addressing the confusion and inefficiencies caused by varied deployment methods within an organization. It offers a single source of truth across Microsoft, aligning with secure and reliable deployment standards, and enabling a consistent view across languages.
Empowering Community Participation
AVM is a community-driven initiative, encouraging contributions from both inside and outside of Microsoft. Contributors play a vital role in the AVM ecosystem:
- Module Owners: Microsoft team and FTEs, responsible for creating, managing, and maintaining modules.
- Module Contributors: Open to anyone globally, these contributors support module owners in managing and maintaining modules.
The Future of AVM
AVM is set to broaden its impact by expanding module offerings and enhancing its framework. The Module Triage Board offers a glimpse into ongoing developments, proposed modules, and the progress of this initiative.
The Starting Point of AVM
AVM represents the beginning of a journey for customers in their IaC journey, offering modules that simplify and accelerate the deployment process, regardless of their current stage.
AVM’s Mission and Vision
AVM’s mission is to provide a unified, secure, and efficient approach to deploying Azure resources and architectural patterns. Its vision is to accelerate deployment, ensure consistency, and support the development of well-architected solutions in Azure.
I help organisations secure their cloud infrastructure and stay ahead of evolving cyber threats. Microsoft MVP and Certified Trainer, author of Mastering Azure Security, and founder of arnav.au — a platform for practical Cloud, Cybersecurity, DevOps and AI content.