Kusto Query Language (KQL) is a powerful query language used primarily to work with large datasets in Azure Data Explorer and other Microsoft services like Log Analytics and Application Insights. KQL is particularly useful for analyzing telemetry data and logs, making it an essential tool for IT professionals and data analysts.

While KQL is not inherently tied to the Windows operating system, it can be used effectively within a Windows environment, especially when dealing with Azure services. This article will guide you on how to use KQL from a Windows environment, leveraging tools like PowerShell and the Azure Command-Line Interface (CLI).

Examples:

1. Using KQL with Azure Data Explorer via PowerShell:

   To run KQL queries from a Windows environment, you can use PowerShell with the Az.Kusto module. Here’s how to get started:

   • Step 1: Install the Az.Kusto Module

     Open PowerShell as an administrator and run:

     Install-Module -Name Az.Kusto -AllowClobber -Force

   • Step 2: Connect to Azure Account

     Connect-AzAccount

   • Step 3: Run a KQL Query

     $ClusterName = "YourClusterName"
     $DatabaseName = "YourDatabaseName"
     $Query = "Your KQL Query Here"
     
     $KustoResponse = Invoke-AzKustoQuery -ClusterName $ClusterName -DatabaseName $DatabaseName -Query $Query
     $KustoResponse

2. Using KQL with Azure Data Explorer via Azure CLI:

   Azure CLI can also be used to run KQL queries from a Windows environment. Here’s how:

   • Step 1: Install Azure CLI

     Download and install Azure CLI from here.

   • Step 2: Log in to Azure

     Open Command Prompt or PowerShell and run:

     az login

   • Step 3: Run a KQL Query

     az kusto query -c "https://YourClusterName.kusto.windows.net" -d "YourDatabaseName" -q "Your KQL Query Here"

3. Using KQL in Azure Data Explorer Web UI:

   If you prefer a graphical interface, you can use the Azure Data Explorer Web UI to run KQL queries directly in your browser. Here’s how:

   • Step 1: Navigate to Azure Data Explorer Web UI

     Go to Azure Data Explorer.

   • Step 2: Sign in and Select Your Cluster and Database

   • Step 3: Run Your KQL Query

     Enter your KQL query in the query editor and click "Run".