Dip into Windows Azure is an exclusive FREE Windows Azure Trial allowing you to evaluate the Azure Platform and take the first step to Cloud computing. You will be amongst the first people in the world to see how easy it is to build, deploy and manage applications in the Cloud and gain insight into the hottest platform currently available from Microsoft.  

The trial has been developed to allow you to take a shallow dip or a deeper dive into the Azure Platform based on your level of interest and expertise, meaning you don't have to be an experienced Developer to participate.

• Free early adopter trial experience of Azure prior it its commercial launch
• Single form trial sign up and reduced Azure account wait time
• Defined learning paths relevant to your role - a suite of readiness resources to deepen your Azure knowledge
• Access to your own private and secure area of the Cloud 
• Azure tutorial to get you started
• Pre-loaded sample Azure application
• Build your own sample applications and deploy them to Azure
• Hear about future events to gain a deeper understanding of Azure

The Dip into Windows Azure Trial has been developed on behalf of Microsoft UK by ICS Solutions, a Microsoft Gold partner that helps organisations move from the Fog to the Cloud™.

What is included in the Azure Trial?

The Windows Azure Trial is a Community Technology Preview (CTP) and includes:

• Download both the Windows Azure SDK and the Windows Azure Tools for Microsoft Visual Studio, and simulate a hosted environment on their local system.
• Access to a suite of readiness resources including virtual hands-on labs, webcasts, and documentation such as white papers. Support will be provided through developer-to-developer blogs and forums.
• A pre-configured sample application to deploy upon signup
• Access to test sample applications which you can deploy to the Cloud
• Ability to host their services in Windows Azure through Microsoft data centers
• Private and secure area of the Cloud where you can put two storage services and one application service
• Free trial access to the rich set of cloud-optimized modular components including Microsoft SQL Azure, Live Services, and Microsoft .NET Services*

If you are keen to start testing the Azure Platform for free before its commercially available, register now to guarantee your place and start testing sample applications in your own private area of the Cloud.  

For trial terms of use please click here.

*Some services may require an additional invitation code from Microsoft to gain access.