Step‑by‑step guide to launch, configure, and secure a Linux server on Oracle Cloud’s free tier

Before We Start: What You'll Walk Away With

By the end of this guide you’ll be running a live Linux VM on Oracle Cloud’s free tier without spending a dime.

Think of the process like ordering a pizza: you pick the crust (the VM), add the toppings (SSH access and web stack), then make sure it arrives hot and safe (firewall and TLS).

First you’ll spin up a free Oracle Cloud VM and lock down a secure ssh connection, just like getting a key to your new apartment.