Sandbox is a flexible, browser-based environment that allows learners to explore and interact with real-world data tools—without the hassle of installations or complex setup. Whether you're trying out Power BI for the first time or exploring advanced Python workflows with AI assistance, Sandbox makes it possible to learn by doing in a safe, resettable space.
With Sandbox, you can experiment freely with industry-standard tools like Tableau, AWS, Azure, and various Python environments—right from your web browser.
Why use Sandbox?
Sandbox is designed for hands-on learners who want to go beyond the classroom. It offers:
- Instant access to professional tools used by data analysts and scientists.
- No installation required—everything runs in your browser.
- Temporary and secure environments that reset automatically to prevent mistakes from becoming permanent.
- Without paying for cloud or server costs
- AI-powered support to help you troubleshoot and explore more confidently.
It’s ideal for learners who want to practice in real software environments without the risk of misconfiguration or data loss.
Available technologies in Sandbox
You can currently explore the following technologies through Sandbox:
1. Business Intelligence (BI) Tools
- Power BI: Create dashboards, build visuals, and generate reports using Microsoft’s flagship BI tool.
- Tableau: Visualize and analyze data using Tableau's intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
2. Cloud Platforms
- AWS: Access Amazon Web Services to explore cloud-based workflows.
- Azure: Practice working in Microsoft Azure’s cloud ecosystem in a controlled, virtual environment.
3. AI-Enhanced Coding Environments
- Python with OpenAI: Write Python code with guidance and error correction powered by OpenAI models.
- Python with Bedrock: Use Amazon Bedrock’s models to receive coding suggestions and complete tasks.
- Python with Anthropic: Interact with Python code enhanced by Anthropic’s Claude models.
4. Standard Coding Environment
- Python: Run and test Python code in an isolated environment with no AI assistance—perfect for foundational practice and experimentation.
Each sandbox focuses on a single technology so learners can engage with realistic tools in a focused way.
What can you do in a Sandbox?
Once you launch a Sandbox session, you’ll have access to:
- A clean, professional interface that mimics the real tools used in the workplace.
- Sample datasets that help you jump straight into analysis or visualization.
- Task suggestions and learning prompts tailored to your selected technology.
- AI support (in select environments) to help with debugging, code generation, and explanations.
Because the environment is ephemeral, anything you do will be discarded once the session ends—so you can explore freely without worrying about making mistakes.
How Sandbox works
- Select your technology: From your dashboard, choose a tool like Power BI, Tableau, or a Python variant.
- Launch your Sandbox: The session opens in your browser, with no setup needed.
- Explore the tool: Use built-in datasets or features to practice workflows, create visuals, or write code.
- End of session: After a period of inactivity or when you close the tab, the environment resets automatically.
You can only run one Sandbox session at a time, ensuring focused learning and optimal performance.
Who can use Sandbox?
- Premium learners: Have full access to Sandbox and receive 2,500 tokens weekly to launch sessions.
- Free users: May have limited access depending on current promotions or special offers.
Each Sandbox session consumes tokens. Heavier technologies like cloud tools or AI-integrated environments may use more tokens per minute.
Usage tokens explained
DataCamp uses a token system to manage Sandbox usage:
- Power BI: 30 tokens = 1 min
- Tableau: 30 tokens = 1 min
- AWS: 30 tokens = 1 min
- Azure: 30 tokens = 1 min
- Python with OpenAl: 10 tokens = 1 min
- Python with Bedrock: 10 tokens = 1 min
- Python with Anthropic: 10 tokens = 1 min
- Python: 10 tokens = 1 min
Note:
- Tokens reset weekly—you’ll see a countdown timer inside the interface.
- You can monitor your token balance while using the tool.
What happens after a session?
Sandbox environments are temporary and self-resetting:
- No data is saved after your session ends.
- You cannot upload your own files—only sample datasets are available.
- To save and share your work, we recommend using DataLab.
This makes Sandbox a great choice for exploration and experimentation, while DataLab is better for structured, long-term projects.
Is Sandbox right for me?
Use Sandbox if you:
- Want to explore a tool before installing it locally
- Prefer to learn by doing in a real interface
- Enjoy having the flexibility to try something without the risk of breaking anything
- Are comfortable with temporary sessions that don’t save your progress
Use DataLab if you:
- Want to save and return to your work later
- Need to upload custom data
- Plan to build a portfolio or share results with others
How is Sandbox different from DataLab?
| Feature | Sandbox | DataLab |
|---|---|---|
Setup |
No setup, browser-based |
No setup, browser-based |
Save progress |
❌ Not supported |
✅ Save and return to work |
File uploads |
❌ Sample datasets only |
✅ Upload your own data |
Technologies |
Power BI, Tableau, AWS, Azure, Python (incl. AI) |
SQL, Python (incl. AI) |
Sharing |
❌ Not supported |
✅ Share projects |
Best for |
Quick experiments |
Building and saving projects |
Ready to explore?
- Head to your Dashboard, click Sandbox, and choose a technology to get started.
- For long-term projects or deeper coding work, explore DataLab.
- Combine both tools to get the best of experimentation and structure in your learning journey.
With Sandbox, you're free to explore real tools, make mistakes, and try new things—without leaving your browser.