Hello! Please forgive me if this question has already been asked, and I simply missed it. My question is regarding cloud platforms for learning administration. To be more specific, I would like to know if there are any platforms that allow me to deploy Windows Server, play around with AD, Exchange, and other Windows-related software, while also integrating Linux machines and their services into the domain.



I am aware that this can be done on virtual machines or EVENT-type products, but that would require powerful hardware which can be quite expensive, especially for a student who is looking to practice. So, my question is: are there any specialized cloud platforms available that can offer these features for a small fee, or even for free?

Additionally, I would love to hear about personal experiences from anyone who has organized practical training in administration. What tools did you use, etc.?

I remember visiting https://mva.microsoft.com/ and stumbling upon labs that were connected to the Microsoft cloud. It's possible that it was a paid course that was temporarily available for free.

For simpler topologies, a regular computer with 8GB of RAM and a free Virtual Box would suffice. It requires patience, but it is doable.

If you're willing, students or anyone can use free resources on Azure and Amazon for experimentation purposes.

Furthermore, these skills are valuable to state institutions in small towns. They include archaeological surveys of Windows systems from Win98 to Win10, practice with Windows Server 2000-2016, and interaction with diverse users. These training exercises enhance problem-solving skills without the need for a budget.

Learning to be a sysadmin isn't something that can be taught in traditional classrooms, not even in Berkeley or ICSI. As PrAw mentioned, it's all about practice.

Theoretical knowledge is not enough and rarely applicable. Even with diligent studying, one may still struggle without real-life practice. Using virtual machines can help, but it's difficult to replicate common user mistakes that may occur in real-world scenarios.

Therefore, practical experience is essential for aspiring sysadmins. Only by working hands-on with different systems and situations can one truly learn the skills necessary for success in this field.

For those seeking employment as a system administrator, the following list provides essential skills and knowledge, arranged in order of complexity. These include basic PC device assembly and disassembly, the ability to lay a twisted pair, operating systems (Windows and Linux), automation scripts, network equipment configuration, server architecture, network construction principles, protocol implementation, routing protocols, dynamic protocol classification and security measures. Additionally, programming knowledge, English proficiency, web development basics, and pedagogical skills are a bonus.

As for courses, CCNP is ideal for Cisco engineers and CCNA Discovery course is a good start for sysadmins. If you cannot afford these courses, IT DarkMaycal Sysadmins academy offers video courses with various levels of expertise. NetSkills also has cheaper video courses available but are not as deep as DarkMaycal's. Free materials are also available for self-study.

There are several fantastic options available for students looking to gain practical experience in Windows and Linux administration without breaking the bank.

One noteworthy platform is Microsoft Azure, which provides a plethora of virtual machines pre-installed with Windows Server and other Windows-related software. With Azure, you can play around with Active Directory, Exchange, and various Windows services while also integrating Linux machines seamlessly into your environment. Azure's flexibility and scalability make it an excellent choice for students seeking hands-on experience with diverse IT systems.

On the other hand, Amazon Web Services (AWS) also offers a wide range of Windows-based virtual machines and services, along with robust support for Linux systems. With AWS, you can experiment with different configurations and scenarios, all within a budget-friendly cloud environment.

As for personal experiences, I've seen many aspiring administrators embrace cloud platforms like Azure and AWS for practical training. By combining these resources with online learning platforms and virtual labs, students can immerse themselves in real-world scenarios while honing their administration skills.

Cloud platforms such as Azure and AWS can provide an affordable and convenient way for students to gain hands-on experience in both Windows and Linux administration. With a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can create your very own virtual IT playground in the cloud.


In addition to Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services (AWS), there are several other cloud platforms that can cater to your specific requirements for learning administration.

Google Cloud Platform (GCP) is another excellent option. GCP offers a variety of virtual machine configurations, including Windows Server instances, which can be seamlessly integrated into your environment for hands-on practice with AD and other Windows-related software. GCP's robust support for Linux makes it well-suited for those looking to explore the integration of Linux machines and their services within a domain setup.

Another noteworthy platform is Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI). OCI provides a range of virtual machine options, including Windows instances, allowing you to experiment with Windows Server, Active Directory, and other Windows-centric tools. The platform's support for both Windows and Linux workloads can facilitate a holistic learning experience in mixed IT environments.

Lastly, IBM Cloud offers virtual servers with Windows Server environments, enabling you to delve into Windows administration tasks. With IBM Cloud's flexibility, you can also incorporate Linux systems into your learning environment, gaining practical experience in managing diverse IT infrastructures.

When it comes to personal experiences, many students have successfully utilized these cloud platforms to organize practical training in administration. By combining these resources with online learning materials and virtual labs, they've been able to build comprehensive environments for honing their skills in both Windows and Linux administration.

Google Cloud Platform, Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, and IBM Cloud are additional options that provide the necessary environments for practicing Windows and Linux administration tasks. By exploring these platforms alongside Azure and AWS, you can expand your toolkit and immerse yourself in a rich, practical learning experience. Embrace the journey, and may your exploration of these platforms lead to a wealth of knowledge and skill development.