Microsoft Azure: Reserved Instances (RIs)

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In this guide, you’ll learn about the cost-saving benefits of Azure Reserved Instances (RIs), how to request enablement via our team (if applicable), and additional resources to optimize your Azure spending effectively.

You need an active Azure Subscription procured through AppDirect and a role (e.g., Billing Admin) that allows access to billing features in the Azure Portal.

What are Reserved Instances?

Azure RIs allow you to reduce cloud costs by committing to a specific capacity for a set term. This can lead to significant discounts compared to pay-as-you-go pricing. RIs are ideal for predictable, consistent workloads and are available for various resources.

Instructions:

• Step 1: Contact our team at help@appdirect.com to request Azure Reserved Instances enablement as this feature may not be enabled by default.
  
  
• Step 2: Assess your resource requirements to determine suitable RIs for your needs. Use tools like Azure Cost Management to analyze usage patterns over the last 7, 30, 60 days or more.
  
  
• Step 3: Once you’ve received confirmation from our team, you will be able to sign into the Azure Portal and purchase RIs.
  • Search for and select Reservations. Use the search bar if you cannot find it in the Services section. 

• • You will be prompted to select your Azure region, resource type, and term. Refer to this article for additional information on buying Azure reservations.
  • As an additional step, you can implement cost management best practices for even more benefits. Read this article to learn more.
    
    
• Step 4: To learn more about managing Azure Reservations, sign up for Microsoft’s RI training module.
  
  

Our team is here to assist you with any inquiries related to Azure or the Marketplace itself. Should you encounter any technical difficulties or have questions, please contact us at help@appdirect.com.

FAQ: 

1. Why isn’t this enabled by default?
   
   Initially, Microsoft did not offer a self-service option, and many partners preferred to avoid the risks associated with allowing customers to self-serve. Consequently, self-service was introduced as a toggle option rather than being automated.
   
   

Related articles:

• Azure Cost Management
• Microsoft Azure
• GDAP