7 Best Free Platforms to Learn Cloud Computing in 2025

Cloud computing is one of the hottest skills in tech right now. The good news? You don’t need to spend thousands on paid courses. There are plenty of trusted platforms where you can start learning cloud for free. Whether you’re interested in AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, or just want to build a strong foundation, these resources are more than enough to get you started.

1. AWS Skill Builder

AWS Skill Builder is Amazon’s official learning platform. It offers hundreds of free courses covering topics from cloud basics to advanced certifications. You’ll find interactive labs, quizzes, and guided learning plans tailored to roles like cloud architect, developer, or data engineer.

👉 Start here: AWS Skill Builder

2. Microsoft Learn (Azure)

If Azure is on your radar, Microsoft Learn is the go-to place. It’s packed with hands-on modules, sandboxes, and role-based learning paths that prepare you for Microsoft certifications. The best part? You can practice directly in the Azure portal without needing a paid account.

👉 Start here: Microsoft Learn

3. Google Cloud Skills Boost

Google’s Cloud Skills Boost gives you free access to labs, quests, and challenges that mirror real-world scenarios. You can earn skill badges for completing quests and showcase them on LinkedIn. It’s one of the most practical ways to build your GCP skills fast.

👉 Start here: Google Cloud Skills Boost

4. IBM SkillsBuild

IBM offers a unique free platform called SkillsBuild that focuses not just on cloud but also on AI, cybersecurity, and data. It includes interactive learning plus badges you can share with employers. If you’re looking for a well-rounded curriculum, this is a solid choice.

👉 Start here: IBM SkillsBuild

5. Oracle Learning Explorer

Oracle provides Learning Explorer, a free program designed to introduce you to Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI). It covers the fundamentals and prepares you for entry-level Oracle certifications without any cost.

👉 Start here: Oracle Learning Explorer

6. FreeCodeCamp

FreeCodeCamp might not be tied to one cloud provider, but it has free tutorials and certifications on cloud fundamentals, DevOps, and backend development. The community support and open-source projects make it a great place for beginners.

👉 Start here: FreeCodeCamp

7. Cloud Academy (Free Trial)

While Cloud Academy is a paid service, they do offer a 7-day free trial. During this time, you can access their structured learning paths, quizzes, and hands-on labs. If you’re disciplined, you can complete a lot in one week.

👉 Start here: Cloud Academy

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to burn your wallet to learn cloud computing. Platforms like AWS Skill Builder, Microsoft Learn, and Google Cloud Skills Boost already give you high-quality, industry-backed learning paths at zero cost. Start small, be consistent, and stack those badges and certificates.

Pro tip: Pick one provider first (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud) before branching out. That way, you build depth instead of spreading yourself too thin.