Getting Started with Microsoft Azure: A Beginner’s Guide for Students

🚀 By Goni Sulaiman

Introduction

Cloud computing is transforming how we build, deploy, and scale applications. As a student and a Microsoft Learn Student Ambassador, I’ve seen firsthand how Microsoft Azure empowers developers and businesses. This guide will help beginners navigate Azure and kick-start their cloud journey.

What is Microsoft Azure?

Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing platform that provides on-demand resources for building, testing, and deploying applications. It offers services across computing, networking, databases, AI, and IoT.

Why Should Students Learn Azure?

✅ Free Student Benefits – Microsoft provides $100 in free Azure credits through Azure for Students.

✅ Industry Demand – Cloud skills are highly valuable in today's tech job market.

✅ Certifications – Azure certifications like AZ-900 help students stand out.

✅ Hands-on Learning – Free tools like Microsoft Learn offer guided labs and challenges.

Getting Started with Azure

1️⃣ Sign Up for Azure for Students

• Visit Azure for Students and sign in with your university email.
• Get $100 in free Azure credits (no credit card required!).

2️⃣ Explore the Azure Portal

• Visit the Azure Portal.
• The dashboard provides access to all Azure services.

3️⃣ Deploy Your First Virtual Machine (VM)

1. Go to the Azure Portal → Click "Virtual Machines" → Select "Create".
2. Choose a Windows or Linux VM and configure settings.
3. Click "Review + Create" and launch your virtual machine.

4️⃣ Learn with Microsoft Learn

💡 Microsoft offers free, interactive learning paths on Microsoft Learn.

Start with these:

📌 Azure Fundamentals – AZ-900 Learning Path

📌 AI on Azure – AI-900 Learning Path

Conclusion

Microsoft Azure provides powerful tools for students to build real-world projects. Whether you’re exploring AI, DevOps, or Web Development, Azure has something for you. Take advantage of Azure for Students, start learning, and certify your skills today!

🔗 Follow me on LinkedIn to stay updated on Microsoft technologies! 🚀 https://LinkedIn.com/in/gonisulaimann

Next Steps

• Sign up for Azure for Students
• Deploy a Virtual Machine
• Complete an Azure Learning Path
• Start preparing for the AZ-900 certification

💬 What’s your first Azure project? Drop a comment below!