Q: How can I try the Windows Azure Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) capability?

A: The ability to run virtual machines (VMs) in Windows Azure is a new capability (at time of writing) and is based on the Hyper-V platform. For those people without an existing Windows Azure account, there are two ways to try it.

First, a free trial is available on the main Windows Azure site--just click the "Free trial" option, which gives a 90-day trial.

The second option is if you have a MSDN subscription. As part of some MSDN subscriptions, you also get an amount of Windows Azure time, provided you live in a supported country. The versions that include Windows Azure are outlined at the Microsoft website. The amount of Windows Azure benefit depends on the version, which is detailed at this Windows Azure web page. 

After you have the MSDN subscription activated, check the MSDN benefit at the Windows Azure/MSDN Benefits site. You will need a credit card to cover any resources you use beyond your included amount, but it won't be charged as long as you stay within your benefit limits. The MSDN benefit also has a great feature that implements a spending limit , disabling your subscription if your hit your included benefits to ensure your credit card doesn't end up with a huge bill!

Activating Windows Azure within MSDN Subscription

You can check your current usage at the Windows Azure account page once you have signed up, but keep the following in mind: