Microsoft launches free student version of Azure

Microsoft has released a new version of its Azure development tool which is primarily aimed at students and free of charge.

The company hopes that the software will become an “incredible launchpad” for younger developers.

It includes access to a number of Microsoft’s tools and services, including Azure Websites – which allows users to build and deploy web apps – as well as Visual Studio Online, which enables them to build software for a variety of platforms.

Microsoft is also offering courses for students looking to jump into web development via the Microsoft Virtual Academy.

“We want to ensure students around the world aren’t left behind, so today we launched Microsoft Azure for student developers,” writes the firm’s Lee Stott.

“This new offer for students in 140 countries around the world gets you started with the services you need most to develop in the cloud at no cost and with no credit card required.”

Last year, Microsoft launched a free version of Virtual Studio.