Introduction
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) allows users to access a remote computer over the internet. Microsoft Azure offers cloud-based RDP solutions, and in 2025, there are still ways to get free Azure RDP—legally and without scams.
This guide will walk you through how to get a free Azure RDP using Microsoft’s free tier, student programs, and other legitimate methods.
Method 1: Microsoft Azure Free Tier (12 Months Free)
Microsoft Azure provides a free tier that includes 750 hours of free Windows/Linux VM usage per month for the first 12 months.
Steps to Get Free Azure RDP (2025)
Step 1: Sign Up for a Microsoft Azure Account
- Go to the Microsoft Azure Free Tier Page.
- Click “Start Free” and sign in with a Microsoft account.
- Enter your details (credit card required for verification, but no charges if you stay within limits).
Step 2: Create a Free Windows VM for RDP
- In the Azure Portal, go to “Virtual Machines” > “Create”.
- Select:
- Resource Group: Create new (e.g., “Free-RDP-2025”).
- VM Name: (e.g., “MyFreeRDP”).
- Region: Choose a free-eligible region (e.g., “East US”).
- Image: “Windows 10/11 Pro” or “Windows Server (if available for free)”.
- Size: Select “B1s” (Burstable, 1 vCPU, 1GB RAM – Free Tier Eligible).
- Set Username & Password (remember these for RDP login).
- Under “Licensing”, check “I confirm I have an eligible Windows license” (if required).
- Click “Review + Create”, then “Create”.
Step 3: Connect to Your Free Azure RDP
- Once the VM is deployed, go to “Virtual Machines” > Select your VM > “Connect” > “RDP”.
- Download the RDP file and open it.
- Enter your credentials when prompted.
- Enjoy your free Azure RDP!
⚠ Important Notes:
- Free tier only allows 750 hours/month (B1s VM).
- Stopping the VM does not stop billing; you must deallocate it.
- After 12 months, you’ll need to pay or switch to a new account.
Method 2: GitHub Student Developer Pack (Free Azure Credits)
If you’re a student, you can get $100 in free Azure credits via the GitHub Student Developer Pack.
Steps to Get Free Azure RDP via GitHub Student Pack
- Sign up at GitHub Education.
- Verify your student status.
- Claim your $100 Azure credit from the perks section.
- Use the credit to create a VM (follow Method 1 above).
✅ Bonus: Students also get free access to Microsoft Azure for Students (no credit card needed).
Method 3: Azure Free Tier Alternatives (2025)
If Azure’s free tier isn’t enough, consider:
- Google Cloud (GCP) Free Tier – $300 credit for new users.
- AWS Free Tier – 750 hours of free EC2 usage.
- Oracle Cloud Free Tier – Always-free ARM-based VMs.
Conclusion
Getting a free Azure RDP in 2025 is still possible through:
✅ Azure Free Tier (12 months free)
✅ GitHub Student Pack ($100 free credits)
✅ Other cloud providers (AWS, GCP, Oracle)
Just ensure you stay within free limits to avoid unexpected charges.
🚀 Want a step-by-step video tutorial? Let me know in the comments!
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(We’ll dive into hidden costs, free tier restrictions, and how to avoid billing surprises.)
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