AWS Overhauls Free Tier: Replaces 1-Year Plan with Credit-Based Model, Max 6 Months Free
Ddos 
For many years, Amazon Web Services (AWS) attracted users with a generous policy offering one year of free access to most of its cloud services—allowing new users to utilize a broad array of tools without incurring additional costs during the eligibility period.
However, AWS has recently revised this policy, replacing the time-based free tier with a credit-based model. Upon registration, users may now choose between a free or paid plan. Those opting for the free plan receive $100 in service credits upfront, with the possibility of earning an additional $100 by completing certain promotional tasks.
This new model does not grant access to all AWS services, as some may rapidly deplete the credit allocation. The maximum duration of free usage is limited to six months. Nevertheless, core offerings such as AWS Lightsail remain accessible, providing a modest carryover of benefits despite the shift in policy.
It is worth noting that the free plan’s credit allowance is bound by a dual condition: the credits remain valid for six months or until fully consumed—whichever comes first. Once the credit balance is exhausted or the six-month window elapses, the free tier is automatically terminated.
In contrast, the AWS paid plan is tailored toward early-stage developers and businesses. It offers the same \$200 in total credits but includes unrestricted access to the full suite of AWS services. Crucially, accounts on the paid plan remain active even after the credits are used up, whereas free accounts are automatically closed unless upgraded.
Previously, Microsoft also revised its Azure free trial program—a change we highlighted while noting that AWS still offered a full year of free access. Amazon’s swift pivot suggests that Google Cloud Platform (GCP) may soon follow suit by adjusting its own incentive policies.
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