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What is Kusto Query Language?

Sarah Lean
3 min readJan 14, 2025

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Learn how KQL helps query and analyse data in Azure, from security to IT operations and analytics

Being able to query large data sets is a good skill to have, whether you work in security, IT operations, or data analytics. This is where Kusto Query Language or KQL can help.

In this blog, we’ll take a look into what KQL is, where it’s used, and how its components help you get the most out of your data.

What is KQL

Kusto Query Language (KQL) was developed by Microsoft in 2017. It was first introduced with Azure Data Explorer.

KQL is a read only language. Which means it is used solely for querying data and not for modifying or deleting data. This makes KQL particularly powerful and safe for data exploration. It also means that when you are learning or using the language your queries can’t inadvertently alter your data.

Since its first introduction KQL has become widely used among a number of Azure services. You’ll find it being used in the following products:

  • Azure Data Explorer (ADX): The primary platform for KQL, used for big data analytics and interactive data exploration.
  • Azure Monitor: For monitoring the performance and health of applications and infrastructure.
  • Log Analytics: A…

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Sarah Lean
Sarah Lean

Written by Sarah Lean

Community Speaker — Lifelong Learner — Founder of the Glasgow Azure User Group

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