AWS Kiro IDE Free Access Guide: No Waitlist, No Hassle
AWS Kiro IDE Free Access Guide: No Waitlist, No Hassle
Introduction
AWS recently launched a brand-new cloud-based development environment called Kiro IDE, as part of its CodeCatalyst platform. Designed for modern developers, it runs entirely in the cloud, eliminating the need for local setup. Itโs fast, lightweight, and even easier to use than GitHub Codespaces โ but many users are stuck behind a waitlist.
This guide will walk you through how to access AWS Kiro IDE for free without joining a waitlist, and help you create your first cloud project step by step. Perfect for beginners, frontend/backend devs, or anyone exploring cloud-native workflows.
๐งฐ What is Kiro IDE?
Kiro IDE is a cloud-based version of VS Code developed by AWS, built into the CodeCatalyst platform.
- No installation needed โ runs entirely in the browser
- Spin up pre-configured Dev Environments
- Supports Git, GitHub, AWS CodeCommit, etc.
- Seamless integration with CI/CD, issue tracking, and DevOps tools
Supported languages: Node.js, Python, Java, Go, Rust, C#, and more
Target users: solo developers, small teams, remote collaboration
๐ How to Access Kiro IDE Without the Waitlist
While the official site mentions a "Beta waitlist," you can start using Kiro IDE right now via CodeCatalyst โ here's how:
Step 1: Register an AWS Account
Go to https://aws.amazon.com/ and sign up.
Make sure to activate CodeCatalyst (itโs free).
Step 2: Visit CodeCatalyst Console
Go to https://codecatalyst.aws/
Click Sign In with AWS Builder ID
If you donโt have a Builder ID yet, it only takes a few seconds to create.
Step 3: Create a Space
- After logging in, click โCreate Spaceโ
- Name your space (e.g.,
my-dev-space) - Choose Free Tier (no credit card required)
Step 4: Launch Dev Environment (Start Kiro IDE)
- In the sidebar, go to Projects > Create Project
- Name your project (e.g.,
my-kiro-demo), and choose a starter template (like Hello World) - After setup, click on Dev Environments
- Click Create Dev Environment
Recommended settings:
- IDE: Kiro IDE
- Platform: Amazon Linux 2 or Ubuntu
- CPU/Memory: Default (or 2 vCPU + 4 GB RAM)
- Lifecycle: Keep default (auto-sleep when idle)
Click โCreateโ โ it takes ~30 seconds to launch the Kiro IDE workspace.
๐ ๏ธ How to Use Kiro IDE
Once inside, you'll see a browser-based editor that looks and behaves like VS Code. Key features:
1. Code Editing
- Syntax highlighting, IntelliSense
- Built-in terminal for shell commands
- Git support built-in
2. Run Your App in the Cloud
From the terminal, run your code like:
node index.jsYou can also use the debugger and breakpoints.
3. Optional: Set Up Deployment
Kiro IDE integrates with CodeCatalyst pipelines for automated deployment to:
AWS Lambda
Amazon EC2
Amazon ECS
GitHub Actions
Time Breakdown (Total Setup Time)
| Task | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Create AWS Builder ID | 2 minutes |
| Setup Space + Project | 3 minutes |
| Launch Kiro IDE | 1 minute |
| Total Time | ~6 minutes โ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is Kiro IDE free?
Yes. CodeCatalyst includes a free tier that gives you monthly Dev Environment usage hours. You only pay if you exceed the limits.
2. How is it different from AWS Cloud9?
Kiro IDE is more modern and VS Codeโlike, with better support for DevOps and team workflows. Cloud9 is simpler and more suited for light usage or education.
3. Can I use GitHub with it?
Absolutely. You can link your GitHub repo during project creation and use full Git workflows inside the IDE.
4. What languages and frameworks are supported?
Languages include Node.js, Python, Java, Go, and C#. You can run frameworks like React, Flask, Spring Boot, etc.
Summary
AWS Kiro IDE is a promising cloud-based coding environment โ free, fast, and fully managed. Now that you know how to skip the waitlist, try it out and see how cloud coding fits into your workflow.