Azure Cloud Shell vs. Azure Functions vs. Azure VM Image Builder vs. SQLGate Comparison Chart

Connect to Azure using an authenticated, browser-based shell experience that’s hosted in the cloud and accessible from virtually anywhere. Azure Cloud Shell is assigned per unique user account and automatically authenticated with each session. Azure Cloud Shell gives you the flexibility of choosing the shell experience that best suits the way you work. Both Bash and PowerShell experiences are available. Microsoft routinely maintains and updates Cloud Shell, which comes equipped with commonly used CLI tools including Linux shell interpreters, PowerShell modules, Azure tools, text editors, source control, build tools, container tools, database tools, and more. Cloud Shell also includes language support for several popular programming languages such as Node.js, .NET, and Python. Use common tools and programming languages in a shell that's updated and maintained by Microsoft.

Simplify your virtual machine (VM) image-building process with an easy-to-use tool. Avoid the hassles of figuring out tooling, processes, and extraneous manual steps. With Azure VM Image Builder, create custom images using fast, simple steps. Integrate the image-building process with your existing DevOps pipeline and manage the images by connecting to shared image gallery. Connect VM Image Builder to your existing virtual networks to use your configuration servers and resources. Migrate an image customization pipeline to Azure and use your existing scripts, commands, and processes. Use Azure VM Image Builder to help ensure security—including patching and updating—and full control of your custom images.