# Get hands-on with Azure DevOps for Free!

Azure DevOps is one of many DevOps platforms used by organisations for its features rich tools. Like most of these platforms, Azure DevOps provides a free tier with access to a majority of features, with monthly caps on some services. If you make some of these projects Open Source (public) you will be provided with extra resources, increasing your monthly cap.

## Who is the free tier targeted at

Microsoft is aiming its free tier at many target audiences. I would say:
-	Organisations looking for a DevOps platform
-	Organisations looking at moving to an alternative platform
-	Individuals new to DevOps tools and processes and want to learn
-	Individuals already using alternative platforms but wants the hands-on experience to add to their resume
-	Open-Source teams/projects

## Where do I get Azure DevOps for free?

Visit the Azure DevOps service site and the information is available on the [pricing page](https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/pricing/details/devops/azure-devops-services/). The information includes what's included on the free tier, the resource caps, and the options available if you move from the free tier to a license package. Here you can select **Start free** to register a new or existing Microsoft account.

![image.png](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1641637765050/7hCpm9ulY.png)

## What’s the difference between Azure DevOps Services and Azure DevOps Server

![image.png](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1641637936337/CHjm5Jeq1.png)

Microsoft provides two versions of Azure DevOps, the first is their Cloud (SaaS) service which provides many tiers. The other is their self-hosted solution which requires the customer/user to deploy a Windows Server to install the software. This solution is costly and only provides a trial download (I would recommend sticking with the Cloud service if you are an individual who is learning the tool).

## What can I learn from using the free tier of Azure DevOps

![image.png](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1641637852375/eYZSoP2a1r.png)

The free tier provides access to most of the features you would access on a paid tier. Below is a list of the features and what you can do with them:

**Azure Pipelines** - Create and run pipelines, allowing you to learn and build CI/CD. There is a limited amount of time allocated to run jobs per month but this is usually enough for those learning/developing the product.

**Azure Boards** - Create work items, implement tracking and processes. This feature helps with project planning and issue tracking, allowing you to improve/develop these skills.

**Azure Repos** - Create and manage repositories. Connect to them using Git and start developing your skills both as a developer.

**Azure Artifacts** - Learn how to create artifacts and a package library.

Now with this information, you can start skilling up and grow your knowledge on the platform without spending any money.


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