How do ARM templates relate to Infrastructure as Code?

ARM templates relate to Infrastructure as Code (IaC) by defining Azure infrastructure with JSON for automation. This approach allows developers to declaratively specify the resources they need in Azure, such as virtual machines, networks, and storage accounts, within a structured and repeatable format. By using JSON, ARM templates can describe the full configuration and dependencies of resources, enabling automated deployment and consistent management of cloud environments.

This method aligns well with the principles of Infrastructure as Code, as it facilitates version control, testing, and collaboration on infrastructure changes just like application code. When changes are defined and versioned in source control, it enhances transparency and allows for tracking the evolution of infrastructure over time, which is essential for managing complex systems effectively.

The other options do not reflect the true nature of ARM templates in the context of IaC. Options that suggest graphical interfaces or manual provisioning scripts miss the automation aspect integral to IaC. Similarly, the notion that ARM templates require no coding knowledge overlooks the fact that understanding JSON and the structure required for defining resources is essential to effectively use ARM templates.