If you’re looking to practice cloud computing or need a virtual private server (VPS) for learning purposes, Qwiklabs offers a great way to access a VPS for free. Qwiklabs is a platform that provides hands-on labs and tutorials for cloud computing technologies like Google Cloud, AWS, and Azure. While Qwiklabs doesn’t directly offer a free VPS service, it does give you temporary access to virtual machines as part of its training courses.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to get a free VPS through Qwiklabs, how to make the most of your free resources, and explore other options for a long-term free VPS.
What is Qwiklabs?
Qwiklabs is an online learning platform offering hands-on labs, tutorials, and challenges focused on cloud technologies. The platform partners with major cloud providers like Google Cloud, AWS, and Azure to help users gain real-world experience. By completing these labs, you often get temporary access to virtual machines or VPS, allowing you to practice and develop cloud computing skills in a real-world environment.
Steps to Get a Free VPS from Qwiklabs
Here’s how you can access a free VPS from Qwiklabs:
1. Create a Qwiklabs Account
- Go to the official Qwiklabs website: www.qwiklabs.com.
- Sign up for a free account or log in if you already have one.
- Once logged in, you can start browsing through available labs.
2. Search for Free Labs
- Qwiklabs offers various labs related to cloud platforms like Google Cloud, AWS, and Azure. Many of these labs provide you with temporary access to a virtual private server (VPS).
- Use the search function to find labs that focus on setting up virtual machines or cloud-based infrastructure. Filter by “free” or “trial” to find labs with no cost attached.
3. Join a Free Lab
- Some labs are entirely free, while others may be available for a limited time (usually a few hours). These labs give you access to a VPS for practical hands-on experience.
- During the lab, you’ll typically be guided step-by-step on how to configure a VPS, install software, and perform cloud-related tasks.
You can start your free lab here: Free Cloud Skills Lab on Google Cloud
Access code: 1q-cloudops-103102
4. Complete the Lab Tasks
- As you complete the tasks in each lab, you’ll make use of the temporary VPS provided by Qwiklabs. The VPS will remain active only for the duration of the lab, typically between 1-3 hours.
- Be sure to finish all exercises within the given time frame to maximize your learning and hands-on experience.
5. End the Lab
- Once the lab is completed, the VPS will be decommissioned. You can always return for additional free labs if they are available.
6. Use Qwiklabs Credits (Optional)
- Qwiklabs operates on a credit-based system. You can earn credits by completing challenges or through promotional offers. These credits can be used to unlock additional labs or extend your VPS access time.
Benefits of Using Qwiklabs for Free VPS
- Hands-on Learning: You’ll gain practical experience with cloud technologies, which is invaluable for beginners and professionals alike.
- No Cost for Temporary Use: You can practice using a cloud VPS without any upfront costs.
- Learning Opportunities: Qwiklabs offers a wide variety of labs on various cloud platforms, giving you diverse experiences with different cloud services.
Other Free VPS Options
While Qwiklabs offers free temporary access to VPS, it is limited to specific labs. If you’re looking for a VPS that you can use for a longer period, consider exploring the following platforms:
- Google Cloud Free Tier: Google Cloud provides a free VPS (Google Compute Engine) with a small virtual machine under their free tier, which is available for up to 12 months.
- AWS Free Tier: Amazon Web Services offers a free tier with access to virtual machines and other services for 12 months.
- Azure Free Account: Microsoft Azure offers a free account with $200 in credits for the first 30 days and limited free services thereafter.
- Oracle Cloud Free Tier: Oracle offers always-free cloud services, including two virtual machines with 1 GB of RAM.
Conclusion
Getting a free VPS through Qwiklabs is an excellent way to practice cloud computing without incurring any costs. By participating in their free labs, you can get hands-on experience with cloud services like Google Cloud and AWS. However, keep in mind that the VPS access is temporary, so if you need a long-term solution, consider exploring other free cloud options.
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced in cloud technologies, using Qwiklabs for hands-on training is a great way to enhance your skills and gain real-world cloud experience.
