Microsoft Azure Cloud Free Learning Path

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Microsoft Azure Cloud offers a free learning path for those interested in cloud computing. You can start with the free Azure account, which comes with a $200 credit that can be used within the first 30 days.

The free learning path includes a series of tutorials and hands-on exercises that cover the basics of Azure, including Azure Storage, Azure Networking, and Azure Security.

Microsoft also provides a free Azure certification program, which includes a free Azure Developer Associate certification. This certification is a great way to demonstrate your skills and knowledge to potential employers.

Getting Started

You can start with Azure without any up-front commitment. You only pay for what you use beyond monthly free amounts of services.

There are different ways to begin your Azure journey. You can get started with pay-as-you-go pricing, which means you only pay for what you use.

If you're new to Azure, you can create an Azure free account to get guidance on creating your first solution. This will help you get started fast.

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The Azure Quickstart Center is a great resource to choose your project and get started quickly. It's perfect for beginners who want to start building with Azure.

Here are some options to consider:

  • Get started with pay-as-you-go pricing and only pay for what you use beyond monthly free amounts of services.
  • Get access to free developer tools and $100 credit, no credit card required – all you need is an academic email address.
  • Create an Azure free account to get guidance on creating your first solution in Azure.
  • Use the Azure Quickstart Center to choose your project and get started fast.

Azure Services

Azure Services offer a wide range of features and tools to help you get started with cloud computing. You can access these services for free for 12 months from the date you create your Azure account, and then continue to get monthly free amounts of these services as long as you have an Azure account.

Microsoft Azure provides an Introduction to Quickstart Center, which is a great place to start your learning journey. This center offers a guided tour of Azure's services and features.

Azure App Service is a popular service that allows you to create web apps and mobile backends. You can add extensions to Azure App Service to enhance its functionality. Some examples of extensions include Azure App Service Managed Certificates and Azure Static Web Apps.

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Here are some of the key services offered by Azure App Service:

  • Microsoft Azure – Create Web Apps in Azure
  • Microsoft Azure – Creating an App Service Plan
  • Microsoft Azure – Cloning Web Apps using Azure App Services
  • Microsoft Azure – Enable Local Cache on Azure App
  • Microsoft Azure – Working with Files in Azure App Service

Azure Functions is another important service that allows you to run small code snippets in response to events. You can use Azure Functions to create serverless applications.

Azure Features

Microsoft Azure offers a wide range of features that make it an attractive option for businesses and developers. With over 600 services, Azure delivers a comprehensive cloud computing platform that supports many programming languages, frameworks, and tools.

Azure's Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) feature allows you to launch general-purpose virtual machines in Microsoft Windows and Linux platforms. This flexibility is a major advantage of using Azure.

Some of the key features of Azure include cloud services, computational services, data resilience, data security, integrated networking, and enhanced infrastructure management. These features work together to provide a robust and secure cloud platform.

Here are some of the key features of Azure:

  • Cloud Services: Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
  • Computational Services: Virtual machines in Microsoft Windows and Linux platforms
  • Data Resilience: More distribution points and data centers
  • Data Security: Built-in security features
  • Integrated Networking: Networking is an important part of Microsoft Azure feature in Cloud architecture
  • Enhanced Infrastructure Management: Tools for managing infrastructure

Azure's flexibility and speed are also notable advantages, making it easier to deploy and manage cloud-based applications.

Databases

Credit: youtube.com, Understanding Azure SQL Databases

Azure offers a range of databases to suit various needs, including Azure SQL Database, which is a fully managed database service that allows you to build highly scalable and high-performance apps.

Azure SQL Database is a popular choice among developers due to its ease of use and scalability. It supports a wide range of programming languages and frameworks, making it a versatile option for building applications.

Database availability is a critical aspect to consider when choosing a database service. Azure provides several options for ensuring high availability, including read replicas and automatic failover.

Here are some key features of Azure SQL Database:

  • Security in Azure SQL, which includes features like encryption and access control
  • Microsoft Azure – Identifying & Accessing Management for Azure SQL, which provides a centralized management interface
  • Microsoft Azure – Configure Auditing for Azure SQL Database, which allows you to track database activity
  • Microsoft Azure – Azure SQL Managed Instance Deployment Options, which provides flexibility in deploying managed instances

Azure also offers other databases, such as Azure Cosmos DB, which is a globally distributed, multi-model database service. It provides high throughput and low latency, making it suitable for real-time data processing and analytics.

If you're new to Azure databases, it's worth exploring the various options available to determine which one best fits your needs.

Integrate AI into Apps

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You can create intelligent apps that can see, hear, speak, understand, and make decisions using Azure AI Services.

This is a game-changer for developers who want to build apps that can interact with users in a more natural way.

Azure AI Services offer a range of capabilities that can be integrated into apps, from text translation to opinion mining.

Here are some examples of how Azure AI Services can be used in apps:

  • Build a Text Translator Webapp using Flask and Cognitive Service
  • Use Microsoft Azure – Cognitive Service Text Analytics in Web App Containers
  • Implement Opinion Mining with Azure Cognitive Services

Monitoring

Monitoring is an essential aspect of Azure, allowing you to keep a close eye on your resources and services.

To enable Windows performance counters in Azure for monitoring, you can follow the steps outlined in the Microsoft Azure documentation.

With Windows performance counters enabled, you can gain valuable insights into your system's performance and identify potential bottlenecks.

Enabling Linux performance counters in Azure for monitoring is also a straightforward process, as described in the Microsoft Azure documentation.

Linux system logs can be enabled in Azure for monitoring, providing you with a detailed record of system events and errors.

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Using Azure Monitor Workbooks is another powerful tool for monitoring your Azure resources, allowing you to create custom dashboards and reports.

Here are some key features for monitoring in Azure:

  • Enable Windows Performance Counters in Azure for Monitoring
  • Enable Linux Performance Counters in Azure for Monitoring
  • Enable Windows Event Logs in Azure for Monitoring
  • Enable Linux System Logs in Azure for Monitoring
  • Using Azure Monitor Workbooks

DevOps

Azure DevOps provides a comprehensive platform for building, deploying, and managing applications. You can create a project in Azure DevOps and use the Agile process to manage your workflow.

Azure offers zone redundancy and SLA for Azure SQL, ensuring high availability and reliability. This feature is particularly useful for applications that require high uptime and data consistency.

To get started with Azure DevOps, you can follow the steps outlined in the article section "Create a Project in Azure DevOps" and "Create a Project in Azure using the Agile Process". These sections provide a clear guide on how to set up your project and configure the Agile process.

Azure also supports Kubernetes, allowing you to create a Kubernetes cluster and deploy applications to it. You can read more about Azure availability for Kubernetes in the article section "Azure availability for Kubernetes".

Credit: youtube.com, Azure DevOps Tutorial for Beginners | CI/CD with Azure Pipelines

Here are some key features of Azure DevOps:

  • Create a Project in Azure DevOps
  • Create a Project in Azure using the Agile Process
  • Azure availability for Kubernetes
  • Zone Redundancy and SLA of Azure SQL

Azure provides a range of tools and services for deploying and managing cloud-based applications. You can use the Azure Quickstart Centre to get started with Azure and explore its features. The Azure Quickstart Centre is a great resource for learning about Azure and getting hands-on experience with its tools and services.

If you're interested in learning more about Azure DevOps, you can take the DevOps Engineering – Planning to Production course, which covers Azure deployments from development to production. This course is a great way to learn about Azure DevOps and how to integrate Azure services into a DevOps pipeline.

Networking

Azure Virtual Network is a powerful tool that allows you to create and manage your private network in the cloud. It gives you the flexibility to connect any number of devices, applications, or servers without affecting the public internet.

With Azure Virtual Network, you can segment your virtual network between a /16 and /29 netmask, giving you a high degree of control over your network architecture. This is especially useful for large-scale deployments.

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Azure CDN enables you to deliver web content closer to users, reducing latency and improving performance. It has multiple point-of-presence locations in a region, ensuring that your content is always available.

Azure Traffic Manager helps you distribute incoming traffic based on the routing method of your choice, ensuring that your applications are always accessible. Azure DNS, on the other hand, helps you manage your DNS records, making it easier to manage your network.

Here are some key Azure networking features:

  • Azure VNet - A private network to run your VMs and applications.
  • Azure CDN - Enables you to deliver web content closer to users.
  • Azure Traffic Manager - Distributes incoming traffic based on the routing method of your choice.
  • Azure DNS - Helps you manage your DNS records.

Security

Azure has some fantastic security features that you should know about. Azure Active Directory is a robust identity and access management service that lets you create and manage users and groups, and you can even use Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) to grant users specific roles to access certain resources.

Azure Key Vault is another powerful tool that allows you to store sensitive information like tokens, passwords, certificates, and other secrets. You can also use it to create and manage the keys used to encrypt your data.

Credit: youtube.com, Azure Security best practices | Azure Tips and Tricks

Azure Application Gateway is a web traffic load balancer that distributes HTTP requests and also has a web application firewall to protect your web applications from common vulnerabilities.

Here are some key security features to keep in mind:

  • Azure Active Directory (AAD) allows you to create and manage users and groups.
  • Azure Key Vault lets you store tokens, passwords, certificates, and other secrets.
  • Azure Application Gateway has a web application firewall to protect your web applications.

Lesson 2: Active Directory

Azure Active Directory (AD) is a key part of the Microsoft cloud platform. It allows you to manage your users, apps, services, and files from one central location.

With Azure AD, you can enjoy single sign-on to your various resources. This means you don't have to remember multiple passwords or usernames.

Azure AD provides a secure platform for authenticating users and access control. This is essential for any business that wants to adopt a cloud-based strategy.

Azure AD is a must-have for businesses that want to simplify their IT management and improve security.

Introduction to Data Factory

Azure Data Factory is a platform that enables you to easily and rapidly create, deploy, and manage data-driven applications.

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It provides a comprehensive solution for data warehousing, data integration, data analysis, data science, big data, and machine learning.

The platform provides a unified experience for your users, simplifying the process of integrating different data sources.

This makes it easy to create powerful analytics and business insights.

Azure Data Factory is a one-stop-shop for all your data needs, providing a solution that can be tailored to your specific requirements.

Functions

Azure Functions is a powerful feature that allows you to run small pieces of code in response to a wide range of events. You can create functions in various programming languages, including C#, F#, and Node.js.

To monitor your Azure Functions, you can use the Azure portal or Visual Studio Code (VS Code). With VS Code, you can create, debug, and deploy Azure Functions with ease. In fact, Microsoft has created a series of tutorials on how to do just that.

Here are some key functions you can perform with Azure Functions:

  • Monitoring Azure Functions
  • Creating Azure Functions from VS Code
  • Debugging Azure Functions using VS Code
  • Deploying Azure Functions using VS Code
  • Renaming an Azure Function
  • Creating a Function App

In addition to these functions, Azure Functions also offers a range of new features, including custom handlers and support for various programming languages. By leveraging these features, you can build more complex and scalable applications.

What Is and How Does It Work?

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Azure is a cloud computing platform that makes it easy for businesses to create, deploy, and manage digital applications. It offers a variety of technologies that can be used to build online experiences.

One of the key features of Azure is its ability to provide a unified experience for users, simplifying the process of integrating different data sources. This is made possible through Azure Data Factory, which enables you to easily and rapidly create, deploy, and manage data-driven applications.

Azure provides a comprehensive solution for data warehousing, data integration, data analysis, data science, big data, and machine learning. This makes it an ideal platform for businesses looking to leverage the power of cloud computing.

Microsoft Azure offers powerful tools for deploying and managing cloud-based applications. Whether you're new to cloud computing or looking to expand your expertise, Azure provides the tools and scalability needed to meet diverse business needs effectively.

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Azure is built on a global network of data centers, supporting a wide array of programming languages, frameworks, and tools. This makes it easy to build, deploy, and manage applications across the globe.

Here are some key features of Azure:

  • Support for a wide array of programming languages, frameworks, and tools
  • Global network of data centers for deployment and management
  • Comprehensive solution for data warehousing, data integration, data analysis, data science, big data, and machine learning
  • Unified experience for users, simplifying the process of integrating different data sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Microsoft Azure free for education?

Yes, Microsoft Azure is free for verified students with no commitment or time limit. Get started with web app hosting and more services at no cost.

Is Azure free really free?

Azure's free tier comes with free monthly amounts for services, and you only pay for what you use beyond that. Check your usage in the Azure portal to see what's included in the free plan.

How can I practice Azure cloud for free?

Practice Azure cloud for free by watching in-depth video tutorials, such as Azure PowerShell, Blob with Microsoft Azure, and Azure Architectural Components, to gain hands-on knowledge and skills

Which Azure certification is best for beginners?

The Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) certification is a great starting point for beginners, covering basic cloud computing and Azure concepts. It provides a solid foundation for further learning and career growth in the Azure ecosystem.

Is Microsoft Azure certification free?

No, Microsoft Azure certification is not entirely free, but you can take certain certification exams for free after completing corresponding Fundamentals training sessions.

Francis McKenzie

Writer

Francis McKenzie is a skilled writer with a passion for crafting informative and engaging content. With a focus on technology and software development, Francis has established herself as a knowledgeable and authoritative voice in the field of Next.js development.

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