How do I generate an Azure architecture diagram automatically?
Quick answer
To generate an Azure architecture diagram automatically, create a Cloudeval project from an ARM template, Bicep compiled to ARM JSON, or a live Azure subscription (read-only sync).
Cloudeval draws architecture and dependency views and attaches cost and security findings to the same resources, so you can see whether a change is safe to ship.
Azure architecture diagram generator: two ways in
| Input | What it represents |
|---|---|
| Template (ARM JSON, or Bicep compiled to ARM JSON) | What the change declares. No Azure access is needed to import the file. |
| Live Azure sync | What is deployed. Uses the read-only role described in the Azure sync permissions docs. |
What the diagram shows, and what it can't prove
Architecture and dependency views show the resources and relationships represented by the import. Static topology alone does not prove reachability, runtime behavior, or that a deployment will succeed.
From diagram to decision
Findings sit on the same resources, from 1,650+ attributed checks. Reports export as PDF, Markdown or JSON. Diagrams export as PNG, JPEG or SVG from the CLI.
When a drawing tool is enough
If you only need a hand-drawn picture, draw.io or Visio with Microsoft's Azure icons is fine. draw.io alternative
