Getting Started with Azure Storage Explorer – A Complete Beginner’s Guide – IT Exams Training

As cloud computing continues to transform how organizations store and manage data, tools that bridge the gap between developers and cloud infrastructure have become essential. One such tool is Azure Storage Explorer, a powerful desktop application developed to simplify access to cloud storage resources within Azure. This first part of the article series introduces Azure Storage Explorer, explains its purpose, and guides you through the prerequisites and download steps to get you started.

Why Use Azure Storage Explorer?

Azure Storage Explorer is designed to make cloud storage more accessible, particularly for users who prefer working with a graphical interface over command-line tools. It supports a wide range of storage services within Azure, including Blob containers, File Shares, Queues, and Tables. Whether you’re a developer, data manager, or IT administrator, the tool provides a convenient method to manage, upload, and download files without needing to log into a web-based portal every time.

Who Benefits from This Tool?

Azure Storage Explorer is ideal for:

Software developers working on cloud-based applications
IT professionals managing storage resources
Data analysts transferring large datasets to the cloud
Students and learners experimenting with Azure services

What makes it even more beneficial is its cross-platform capability, which means it works on various operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and macOS.

Main Features at a Glance

Before jumping into the setup process, it’s useful to understand some of the core features:

Graphical Interface: Allows you to browse and manage Azure storage visually.
Multiple Account Support: Connect to several Azure subscriptions and manage storage from different accounts in one place.
Support for Multiple Services: Manage blobs, tables, file shares, and queues.
Role-Based Access Control: Safely control who can view or modify your data.
Local Emulator Integration: Supports working with local Azure emulators for testing purposes.

Prerequisites for Installation

To ensure a smooth installation process, a few basic requirements need to be in place. These include:

1. Azure Subscription

To interact with Azure storage accounts, you’ll need an active Azure subscription. Even if you’re just exploring or learning, a free-tier account can be sufficient to get started.

2. Supported Operating System

The tool is compatible with the major operating systems. Ensure your system is updated and meets the basic requirements. Minimum system configurations usually include:

Sufficient disk space (at least 250 MB)
An updated operating system
Administrative privileges to install applications

3. Stable Internet Connection

A reliable internet connection is necessary for downloading the tool, connecting to cloud storage accounts, and syncing files between your machine and the cloud.

Downloading Azure Storage Explorer

Once your system is ready and your Azure account is active, the next step is to download the application.

Choosing the Right Version

Azure Storage Explorer offers installation packages for different platforms. It’s important to choose the correct version based on your system:

Windows: Usually available as an executable file (.exe)
macOS: Typically provided in a disk image file (.dmg)
Linux: Available as compressed packages or app images, depending on the distribution

Take a moment to verify which version suits your operating system before initiating the download.

File Size and Download Time

The application is relatively lightweight. On average, the download size ranges from 80MB to 120MB, depending on the version and platform. For most users with standard internet speeds, this should only take a few minutes.

Understanding the Installer Package

Once the download completes, you will have an installer file saved on your computer. Depending on the platform, here’s what to expect:

Windows Users: A setup wizard will guide you through a step-by-step process, including license agreement acceptance and install scope selection.
macOS Users: The installation involves dragging the application into the Applications folder.
Linux Users: Installation might involve extracting the package and setting permissions, depending on the distribution.

We’ll cover the exact installation steps in the next article, but for now, make sure the installer file has downloaded successfully and is ready for use.

Summary of What You’ve Accomplished So Far

If you’ve followed along this far, you should have:

A clear understanding of what Azure Storage Explorer is
Learned who benefits from using it
Reviewed its key features
Prepared your system with the necessary prerequisites
Downloaded the correct installer version for your operating system

This foundation prepares you well for the next step — installing the tool and performing the initial setup.

How to Install and Set Up Azure Storage Explorer

In the first part of this series, we introduced Azure Storage Explorer and outlined the prerequisites for getting started. Now that you’ve downloaded the appropriate version for your operating system, it’s time to move on to the actual installation and setup process. This article walks you through installing the tool, performing the first-time configuration, and linking it with your Azure account.

Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or Linux, this guide is designed to help you through each step clearly and smoothly. Let’s dive into the installation process first.

Installing Azure Storage Explorer

For Windows Users

Once the download is complete, you’ll find an executable file typically named something like “StorageExplorerSetup.exe” in your downloads folder.

Run the Installer: Double-click the file to begin. A window will open prompting you to choose an installation mode.
Choose Installation Scope:
- Install for me only: This installs the application only for your user account.
- Install for all users: Select this if multiple users on the computer need access.
Accept the License Terms: Read through the license agreement and check the box to accept the terms.
Follow the Prompts: Click through the setup wizard. If required, you might be prompted to install additional dependencies, such as the .NET runtime, especially if your system does not already have them installed.
Finish Installation: After the installation completes, you can choose to launch the application immediately or close the setup window.

For macOS Users

If you’re using macOS, your download should be a disk image file, typically with a “.dmg” extension.

Open the Disk Image: Double-click to open the disk image file.
Drag to Applications: You will see a window with the Azure Storage Explorer icon. Drag it into your Applications folder.
Launch the Application: Go to the Applications folder and double-click the icon to open it.
Grant Permissions: Depending on your system settings, macOS may prompt you for permission to run the application since it was downloaded from the internet.

For Linux Users

Depending on your Linux distribution, the installation method may vary slightly.

Extract or Open the Package: You may have received a compressed archive or a portable application format.
Set Permissions: Make sure the application has executable permissions.
Run the Application: You can launch it directly from your file manager or using the command line if preferred.

Once the installation is complete, you are ready to configure the application and connect it to your Azure account.

Launching Azure Storage Explorer for the First Time

When you open the application for the first time, you’ll be greeted by a clean, intuitive interface designed to help you quickly access your storage resources. The layout is divided into sections: a navigation pane on the left, a workspace in the center, and a details panel on the right.

At this stage, no accounts are connected. To start working with your Azure storage, you need to link your account or connect directly to a specific resource.

Connecting to Your Azure Storage Account

Azure Storage Explorer offers various ways to connect to storage, but the most common method is using your Azure subscription. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Open the Connection Dialog

On the left-hand side of the screen, you’ll see a section labeled “Storage Accounts.”
Right-click on this section or use the “Add Account” button located at the top to open the connection wizard.

Step 2: Select the Resource Type

In the connection wizard, you’ll be asked how you want to connect. The available options typically include:

Azure Subscription – for accessing your storage accounts directly through your Azure login.
Storage Account Name and Key – if you have account credentials.
Shared Access Signature (SAS) – for limited-access scenarios.
Local Emulator – for development and testing environments.

Choose Azure Subscription to proceed with your personal or organizational account.

Step 3: Choose the Environment

Depending on your location or specific Azure deployment, you may need to choose which cloud environment to connect to. The most common options include:

Global Azure – the default and most widely used environment.
Azure China
Azure US Government
Custom Environment – for private cloud or specialized configurations.

Select the appropriate environment and click “Next.”

Step 4: Sign In to Your Azure Account

A browser window will open asking you to sign in with your Azure credentials.
Enter your username and password.
If your account has multiple subscriptions, you’ll be prompted to choose the ones you want to connect.
Once successfully logged in, close the browser and return to Azure Storage Explorer.

You should now see your connected accounts in the left navigation pane. You can expand these to reveal various storage services such as Blob containers, File Shares, Tables, and Queues.

Overview of the Interface

After connecting your account, Azure Storage Explorer becomes your window into your Azure Storage world. Here are the main sections:

Navigation Pane (Left Sidebar)

This area lists all connected accounts and storage resources. You can expand storage accounts to access containers, shares, tables, and queues.

Workspace (Middle Pane)

The workspace displays the contents of any selected storage resource. For instance, if you click on a blob container, you’ll see all its stored files here.

Details and Properties (Right Sidebar)

When you click on a specific file or item, the properties pane on the right shows metadata, size, timestamps, and access details.

Common First Tasks

Once you’ve successfully connected, here are some useful operations you can begin exploring:

Browse Blob Containers: View and manage files stored in blobs.
Upload Files: Add local files to your Azure storage.
Download Content: Retrieve files from the cloud to your machine.
Manage Queues and Tables: View, add, or delete items stored in queues or structured tables.
Edit Metadata: Modify properties like tags or access permissions.

These operations are intuitive and typically involve right-clicking on an object to view available actions.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

Use Favorites: Pin frequently accessed storage containers or accounts to the Favorites section for quick access.
Refresh Regularly: If you make changes in the Azure portal, remember to refresh the Storage Explorer to see the latest updates.
Log Out When Needed: You can sign out of one or more accounts if you want to limit access on shared devices.
Use Descriptive Names: When creating new containers or shares, give them names that clearly indicate their purpose.

In this second part of the series, you’ve:

Installed Azure Storage Explorer on your system
Launched and explored the user interface
Connected your Azure account using the subscription method
Started navigating your storage accounts and resources

This step-by-step setup ensures that you’re now ready to actively manage your Azure storage environment directly from your desktop.

Advanced Usage and Best Practices for Managing Azure Storage

After completing the installation and initial setup of Azure Storage Explorer, the next step is learning how to use the tool efficiently for daily tasks and long-term storage management. This final part of the series focuses on advanced functionalities, efficient data handling techniques, storage organization strategies, and best practices. Whether you are managing gigabytes or terabytes of data, these insights will help you operate Azure Storage Explorer with clarity, precision, and control.

Efficient File and Folder Management

Azure Storage Explorer allows you to manage files and folders in blob containers and file shares with ease. Proper file management not only enhances productivity but also helps with long-term maintenance and security.

Organizing with Containers and Folders

Use separate containers to divide storage based on data type, purpose, or project. Within each container, use a consistent folder structure. Although Azure uses a flat namespace, folder-like structures can be created using naming conventions that mimic directories. For example, a blob named sales/2025/january/report.pdf will appear in a folder-style view.

Naming Conventions

Adopt clear and descriptive naming rules. Avoid spaces and use hyphens or underscores. Include elements such as dates, types, or departments in the names. For example, finance_2025_Q1_summary.pdf is more helpful than file1.pdf.

Uploading and Downloading

Right-click on a container or folder to upload files or folders. Similarly, select any item and choose the download option to retrieve it. Large transfers can be tracked using the Transfer Panel, which shows progress and allows you to pause or cancel tasks.

Metadata and File Properties

Understanding and utilizing metadata can enhance searchability and automation.

Custom Metadata

You can assign custom key-value pairs to blobs. These can store details like author, project ID, or confidentiality status. Later, you can filter or query based on these tags.

Viewing and Editing Properties

Select any blob or file to view details such as size, creation date, last modified time, and content type. Editable properties allow you to customize behavior, such as changing cache control settings or content type identifiers.

Setting Permissions and Managing Access

Controlling access to your data is a core function of Azure Storage Explorer.

Using Shared Access Signatures

Shared Access Signatures (SAS) let you generate temporary access links with specific permissions (read, write, delete) and expiration dates. You can generate a SAS token or full URL to share securely with collaborators.

Container-Level Access Settings

Each container can be set to one of the following:

Private: Only authenticated requests
Blob: Public read access for blobs only
Container: Public read access to the entire container

Choose access settings based on the sensitivity of the data.

Account-Level Security

While Azure Storage Explorer does not manage role-based access directly, it’s essential to use Azure’s portal to assign users appropriate roles (reader, contributor, owner). Storage Explorer respects these roles during interaction.

Using Snapshots and Versioning

Snapshots and versioning offer powerful recovery options.

Creating Snapshots

Snapshots are read-only versions of blobs taken at a specific moment. You can create a snapshot before making changes, allowing rollback if needed.

Accessing and Restoring Snapshots

Snapshots are displayed in a version history view. You can open, compare, download, or even promote a snapshot back to the current version.

Managing Versions

When versioning is enabled, each modification to a blob is stored as a new version. Storage Explorer shows these in the side panel, allowing you to track or revert changes.

Search and Navigation Shortcuts

When managing large data sets, efficient navigation tools are critical.

Favorites Section

Add frequently accessed containers or shares to the Favorites section. This feature allows quick access without navigating through the full account tree.

Search Bar

Use the search bar to locate blobs, tables, queues, or files by name. Combine search with filters to narrow results quickly.

Multiple Accounts

You can manage multiple Azure accounts within the same instance. This is useful for developers who need to toggle between test, development, and production environments.

Monitoring Activities and Troubleshooting

Keep an eye on what’s happening in your environment with built-in tools.

Transfer Panel

The Transfer Panel logs all upload and download activity. It provides real-time status updates and error logs.

Error Messages and Solutions

Storage Explorer displays helpful messages when something goes wrong—such as network errors, permission issues, or size limits. Use these to debug problems efficiently.

Refresh and Sync

Click the refresh button to update your view. If resources have been added or modified externally (e.g., from the Azure portal), refreshing will sync the latest state.

Best Practices for Long-Term Usage

Establishing good habits ensures your Azure Storage remains secure, organized, and cost-effective.

Limit Public Access

Avoid using public containers unless absolutely necessary. Instead, use SAS tokens for time-limited sharing.

Implement Lifecycle Management

Plan for data retention. Use naming to indicate archival dates and regularly audit old or unused files.

Track Access Logs

While Azure Storage Explorer does not display access logs, the Azure platform retains them. Reviewing logs helps detect unauthorized access or misconfigurations.

Clean Up Regularly

Old files consume space and cost money. Schedule regular reviews and remove obsolete data.

Documentation

Keep documentation of your folder structure, naming conventions, and permission policies. This helps new team members onboard faster.

Working with Emulators and Offline Storage

Azure Storage Explorer supports offline testing through local emulators.

Connect to Local Storage

Local emulators simulate Azure Storage behavior. They are useful for development and testing without affecting live environments.

Switching Between Environments

You can add both local and remote storage accounts. Toggle between environments to validate features before pushing updates to production.

Efficient File and Folder Management

Organizing with Containers and Folders

Naming Conventions

Uploading and Downloading

Metadata and File Properties

Understanding and utilizing metadata can enhance searchability and automation.

Custom Metadata

You can assign custom key-value pairs to blobs. These can store details like author, project ID, or confidentiality status. Later, you can filter or query based on these tags.

Viewing and Editing Properties

Setting Permissions and Managing Access

Controlling access to your data is a core function of Azure Storage Explorer.

Using Shared Access Signatures

Container-Level Access Settings

Each container can be set to one of the following:

Private: Only authenticated requests
Blob: Public read access for blobs only
Container: Public read access to the entire container

Choose access settings based on the sensitivity of the data.

Account-Level Security

Using Snapshots and Versioning

Snapshots and versioning offer powerful recovery options.

Creating Snapshots

Snapshots are read-only versions of blobs taken at a specific moment. You can create a snapshot before making changes, allowing rollback if needed.

Accessing and Restoring Snapshots

Snapshots are displayed in a version history view. You can open, compare, download, or even promote a snapshot back to the current version.

Managing Versions

When versioning is enabled, each modification to a blob is stored as a new version. Storage Explorer shows these in the side panel, allowing you to track or revert changes.

Search and Navigation Shortcuts

When managing large data sets, efficient navigation tools are critical.

Favorites Section

Add frequently accessed containers or shares to the Favorites section. This feature allows quick access without navigating through the full account tree.

Search Bar

Use the search bar to locate blobs, tables, queues, or files by name. Combine search with filters to narrow results quickly.

Multiple Accounts

You can manage multiple Azure accounts within the same instance. This is useful for developers who need to toggle between test, development, and production environments.

Monitoring Activities and Troubleshooting

Keep an eye on what’s happening in your environment with built-in tools.

Transfer Panel

The Transfer Panel logs all upload and download activity. It provides real-time status updates and error logs.

Error Messages and Solutions

Storage Explorer displays helpful messages when something goes wrong—such as network errors, permission issues, or size limits. Use these to debug problems efficiently.

Refresh and Sync

Click the refresh button to update your view. If resources have been added or modified externally (e.g., from the Azure portal), refreshing will sync the latest state.

Best Practices for Long-Term Usage

Establishing good habits ensures your Azure Storage remains secure, organized, and cost-effective.

Limit Public Access

Avoid using public containers unless absolutely necessary. Instead, use SAS tokens for time-limited sharing.

Implement Lifecycle Management

Plan for data retention. Use naming to indicate archival dates and regularly audit old or unused files.

Track Access Logs

While Azure Storage Explorer does not display access logs, the Azure platform retains them. Reviewing logs helps detect unauthorized access or misconfigurations.

Clean Up Regularly

Old files consume space and cost money. Schedule regular reviews and remove obsolete data.

Documentation

Keep documentation of your folder structure, naming conventions, and permission policies. This helps new team members onboard faster.

Working with Emulators and Offline Storage

Azure Storage Explorer supports offline testing through local emulators.

Connect to Local Storage

Local emulators simulate Azure Storage behavior. They are useful for development and testing without affecting live environments.

Switching Between Environments

You can add both local and remote storage accounts. Toggle between environments to validate features before pushing updates to production.

Integrating Azure Storage Explorer into Team Workflows and Operations

As businesses grow and teams become more distributed, managing cloud storage collaboratively becomes more critical. In this additional part, we look at how Azure Storage Explorer can be integrated into team workflows, automated tasks, and collaborative environments. This allows for more structured teamwork, smoother handoffs, and better alignment between development and operations.

Collaboration Across Teams

Azure Storage Explorer can serve as a central hub for teams that work with data in the cloud.

Role-Based Usage

Assign tasks based on team roles. Developers may focus on uploading and testing application assets, while data analysts use Storage Explorer to access logs and reports. Admins maintain permissions and monitor usage.

Shared Access Practices

Rather than sharing account credentials, use Shared Access Signatures or assign individual user roles via Azure AD to ensure accountability.

Training and Onboarding

Introduce new users to Azure Storage Explorer using sandbox environments and local emulators. This approach avoids unintended changes to production storage.

Version Control and Data Auditing

Tracking data changes is important in collaborative setups.

Snapshots for Collaboration

Before making updates to shared blobs, take snapshots. Team members can work confidently knowing that earlier versions can be restored.

Naming for Version Control

Use naming suffixes such as v1, v2, or date-based labels. This avoids overwriting active files while keeping a history.

Task Automation with Scheduled Review

While Azure Storage Explorer itself isn’t a scheduler, it fits well into automated review routines.

Weekly Maintenance Practices

Assign routine tasks to check for unused blobs, confirm access controls, and clear temporary data folders. Document findings and share reports with the team.

Storage Review Meetings

Hold regular storage reviews where teams inspect shared data usage, enforce naming rules, and review permission configurations.

Integrating with Broader Cloud Tools

Even though Storage Explorer is standalone, it supports integration through usage habits.

Using Exported Files in BI Tools

Downloaded files can be imported into analytics tools or dashboards. Data retrieved by Storage Explorer becomes part of the decision-making process.

Backup and Archival Coordination

Use Storage Explorer to periodically export critical files, then sync them to external drives or archival storage.

Monitoring Shared Workspaces

When multiple users access the same storage, visibility becomes essential.

User Guidelines for Shared Containers

Create a documented policy on how to name, store, and access files in shared containers. Include do’s and don’ts for deleting or moving files.

Standardize Metadata Use

Require teams to add metadata to files to make searching and filtering easier. Metadata might include department, document type, or owner.

Security in Team Environments

Keeping shared storage secure without hindering productivity is key.

Separate Access by Environment

Use different storage accounts or containers for production, development, and testing. This reduces the risk of mixing critical data with experimental uploads.

Rotate SAS Links Regularly

If your team uses Shared Access Signatures, rotate them periodically to prevent lingering access.

Conclusion

Azure Storage Explorer is an indispensable tool for managing Azure cloud storage. From uploading files to setting permissions, reviewing snapshots, and tracking access, it delivers a wide range of capabilities with a user-friendly interface. This final part of the series provided an in-depth look at real-world use cases, organizational techniques, security configurations, and long-term management strategies.

By applying these practices, you ensure that your Azure Storage environment remains secure, scalable, and well-maintained. Whether you’re a developer, administrator, or data analyst, mastering Azure Storage Explorer gives you full control over your cloud-based resources.