There are many ways to go about learning cloud computing platforms. You can study directly on the website of the platform, take online or in-person courses, and even look at resources in book form to gain a better understanding.
In this article, we will review the courses, training, and other resources that are available to you if you would like to learn more about cloud computing. Before getting into online courses for cloud computing, let’s take a look at some of the best cloud computing platforms.
What Is Cloud Computing?
In simple terms, cloud computing is software that offers cloud services such as data storage, networking, or other software. These services allow businesses to streamline their workflow and become more cost-effective.
What Is Cloud Computing Used For?
Cloud computing platforms offer hundreds of products businesses can use, depending on their situation. Cloud computing platforms are easily accessible online and do not require you to download any software.
There are many jobs available to you should you choose to enter the cloud computing industry. These jobs include:
- Software engineer
- Software architect
- Data engineer
- Full stack developer
- Data scientist
- Systems administrator
- Cloud engineer
Types of Cloud Computing
Overall, the most common cloud computing platforms for business use are:
These are separated into a few different types of cloud computing that offer different purposes depending on what a business’s needs are.
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
In simple terms, IaaS manages data storage, servers, development tools, business analytics, and other physical parts of a business. Many platforms use IaaS cloud computing such as Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud Platform.
Software as a Service (SaaS)
You may have heard of SaaS before because it is the most commonly referenced type of cloud computing. This type of cloud computing handles operating systems and data. It is mostly run through web browsers and does not need to be downloaded as extra software. The most common types of Saas platforms are Microsoft Office and Google Apps.
Platform as a Service (PaaS)
Platform as a Service is a bit different than the other types of cloud computing services. This service helps build a framework so that businesses can create and deploy updates to their existing software products and services. Some cloud computing services that use PaaS are Microsoft Azure and Google App Engine.
Learning Cloud Computing
There are many ways someone can start to learn cloud computing. There are courses, training, resources, and certifications that provide excellent information for anyone interested in the field.
While many cloud computing platforms offer their own information directly on their website, many other courses feature basic cloud computing information.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Cloud Computing?
The way you learn cloud computing is up to you. To learn a specific platform like Amazon Web Services or Google Cloud, may take a few months depending on which aspects you want to study. Alternatively, you may want to get a four-year degree in cloud computing.
How to Learn Cloud Computing: Step-by-Step
If you’re interested in learning cloud computing, below is a step-by-step rundown of how to get started.
- Learn what cloud computing is. The first step is to make sure you understand what you are learning about. What services and platforms are most popular?
- Find a cloud computing service. Pick a cloud computing service like Google Cloud or Amazon Web Services and learn the details of the platform, and what it offers.
- Seek out hands-on courses. When learning cloud computing, try to find courses that offer lots of real-world training so that you can navigate the services and gain experience while studying.
- Take a certification course. It is a good idea to become certified in cloud computing or a specific cloud computing platform. It will give you an advantage when applying for jobs later on.
The Best Cloud Computing Courses and Training
There are many ways you can receive training in cloud computing. You may want to take an online course and go at your own pace, attend a live online class, or sign up for a traditional classroom experience.
Online and In-Person Cloud Computing Courses
There are benefits to both online and in-person courses. Some online courses are offered on a virtual platform in which students learn in real-time taught live by an instructor. You can get even more personal interaction by signing up for a course taught in a real classroom setting.
However, due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, some in-person classes have been moved online temporarily.
Below is a list of virtual and in-person courses you can take to learn cloud computing.
General Assembly
Cost: Varies
Courses:
- Intro to Cloud Computing | New York
- Cloud Computing | Seattle
- Microsoft Azure Cloud for Beginners | Dallas
These in-person courses offered by General Assembly will teach you all the basics of cloud computing. Students will learn general information about PaaS, IaaS, cloud security, and different cloud providers. However, the Microsoft Azure Cloud for Beginners course focuses on only that company’s program.
Google Cloud
If you are looking to study the specifics of Google Cloud, then this website offers plenty of course options. Below are some of the free classes offered by Google, some of which include the option to attend class in person.
Courses:
- Google Cloud Fundamentals: Core Infrastructure
- From Data to Insights with Google Cloud Platform
- Getting Started with Google Kubernetes Engine
- Architecting with Google Cloud: Design and Process
- Security in Google Cloud
Amazon Web Services
Amazon Web Services has more than 400 free, digital courses that are self-paced. They also offer several in-person options at select locations. Below are some of the Amazon Web Services training courses that might be of interest.
In-person Courses:
- Media Essentials for IT Business Decision Makers – In-person in Denmark and online
- Practical Data Science with Amazon SageMaker – In-person in Asia and Europe and online
- AWS Discovery Day – In-person in New Zealand and online
Best Online Cloud Computing Courses
If you would rather learn online, sign up for one of these self-paced courses that you can complete whenever you are free.
Coursera
Coursera offers many cloud computing courses for those who like to study independently, and for free.
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Cost: Free
Courses:
- Cloud Computing Specialization
- Cloud Computing Basics (Cloud 101)
- Introduction to Cloud Computing
- Cloud Computing Applications, Part 2: Big Data and Applications in the Cloud
In these courses, you will learn the fundamentals of cloud-based applications, design philosophies, algorithms, cloud economics, hybrid cloud, and machine learning. These courses give individuals a good basic understanding of the uses of cloud computing.
Udemy
Udemy offers cloud computing courses for both beginners and experts. Through this massive open online course website, you can learn anything about cloud computing at your experience level. Here are some of the popular courses offered by Udemy.
Cost: Varies
Courses:
- Cloud Computing Basics: Enhance Your Career as a Cloud Engineer
- Getting Started with Cloud Computing: Level 1
- Introduction to Cloud Computing on Amazon AWS for Beginners
- Learn Cloud Computing from Scratch
- Introduction to Cloud Computing
These courses by Udemy teach everything you might want to know about cloud computing. Courses cover cloud models, data centers, building cloud infrastructures, hands-on training, public and private cloud.
Cloud Academy
Cost: Free 7-day trial/$39 to $49 per month
Courses:
These courses by Cloud Academy cover all the basics and also teach individuals how professionals can use cloud computing to improve their business.
Books on Cloud Computing
If learning online or in-person isn’t for you, then consider sitting down with a book about cloud computing. Here are some of the best-written resources on cloud computing.
Cloud Computing: Theory and Practice – Dan C. Marinescu
In this book, the author goes into the theory behind cloud computing and how it is practiced. Throughout the book, readers will learn about the cloud ecosystem, cloud security, and cloud data storage.
Cloud Computing Solutions Architect – Arshdeep Bahga
This beginner-level book provides information on how individuals can apply their cloud computing knowledge to build applications on different cloud platforms. It also covers networking and security requirements.
Cloud Computing for Dummies – Daniel Kirsch and Judith Hurwitz
Throughout Cloud Computing for Dummies, you will learn about cloud strategies, how to use the cloud for business, multi-cloud, and hybrid cloud. This book breaks down the concepts of cloud computing so that beginners can easily understand them.
Cloud Computing: Master the Concepts, Architecture and Applications with Real-world examples and Case Studies – Various Authors
In this book, readers will learn about cloud applications, architecture, and concepts. It starts out teaching the fundamentals of cloud computing and proceeds to cover more advanced concepts. By the end, you will have covered everything you need to know about cloud computing software and uses.
Online Cloud Computing Resources
Google Cloud
Even though this resource is specific to one company, the website still provides a lot of useful knowledge. On it, you will find many resources to help you understand the platform. Its resources cover many formats, including courses and articles about any updates to the platform. It is one of the best resources for Google Cloud because it comes straight from the company.
YouTube
YouTube is a great resource for learning, no matter what the topic. If you want to learn more about cloud computing or get help with a particular question, you will likely find your answer here. Search cloud computing and scroll through the thousands of videos available to see what area catches your interest as you learn more about the industry.
Microsoft Azure
If you are looking to learn about a specific cloud product that is part of Microsoft Azure, then this is the best possible resource. This website provides details on anything you need to know about the platform.
Should You Study Cloud Computing?
Any cloud computing platform will offer great services for affordably streamlining your business. As you have read above, there are many benefits to cloud computing and no shortage of courses that will help you become an expert on any of the cloud computing systems.
There are many jobs available to you if you are considering a job in the industry. One possible position is as a computer network architect. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for this job is $112,690 per year.
After reading this article, you should have a better understanding of what cloud computing is and how you can use it. Now, with the information provided, you can decide whether you are serious about pursuing a career in the field. If you’re not sure, you can choose one of the courses or training above, and get started learning a little bit more about cloud computing.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
