How to Learn Cloud Computing

The demand for cloud computing skills is growing at an unprecedented rate, driven by businesses of all sizes seeking flexible, cost-effective and scalable solutions.

As organizations increasingly migrate their operations to the cloud, the need for professionals with cloud expertise continues to rise. This makes now the ideal time to begin a journey into cloud computing, whether as a complete novice or a seasoned IT professional looking to expand their skill set.

What is Cloud Computing? Understanding the Basics.

Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services, such as servers, storage, databases, networking, software and analytics, over the internet (“the cloud”).

Instead of investing in on-premises data centers or hardware, organizations can utilize cloud services to operate with greater agility, reduce costs and scale quickly. The cloud allows companies to rent or subscribe to these services as needed.

With this in mind, it's important to note that cloud computing is commonly segmented into three main service models:

• Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Provides virtualized computing resources over the internet. This includes virtual machines, storage and networking, allowing companies to avoid the cost and complexity of buying and managing physical servers. Popular IaaS providers include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
• Platform as a Service (PaaS). Offers a platform allowing developers to build, deploy and manage applications without worrying about underlying infrastructure. PaaS providers, such as Heroku, Google App Engine and Microsoft Azure App Service, streamline application development by providing pre-configured environments.
• Software as a Service (SaaS). Delivers software applications over the internet, accessible via web browsers. This model includes applications such as Google Workspace, Microsoft 365 and Salesforce, making it easy for businesses to provide employees with the software they need without complex installations.

Choosing Your Path: Which Cloud Computing Platforms to Learn First

Selecting a cloud platform to begin your studies depends on your career goals, industry demands and preferred learning style. Each major cloud platform—AWS, GCP and Azure—offers different advantages and extensive learning resources for beginners.

• Amazon Web Services (AWS). AWS is a widely used cloud service platform known for its breadth of services and enterprise-level offerings. It is the most popular choice, particularly among businesses needing a broad range of services and scalability. For those entering the field, AWS certifications are highly valued by employers, with options like the AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials course ideal for beginners.
• Google Cloud Platform (GCP). GCP is recognized for its strengths in AI, machine learning, and data analytics. It offers beginner-friendly services and ample resources, making it a great platform to start experimenting with cloud technology. GCP’s free tier allows beginners to access tools and experiment without immediate financial commitments.
• Microsoft Azure. Azure is especially popular in organizations using Microsoft products, making it ideal for roles within companies with a sizeable Microsoft-based infrastructure. Microsoft Azure Fundamentals is a recommended starting point for beginners.

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Dr. Mohammad Abu Shattal, program chair of the B.S. in Cloud Computing program at Franklin University, suggests that individuals new to the field should first build foundational knowledge of IT concepts like networking and databases before exploring cloud services.

To gain a comprehensive understanding, he suggests considering free-tier accounts on each platform, starting with GCP for its beginner-friendly resources. Beginner-friendly certifications, such as AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials or Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, combined with hands-on practice using these free tiers, are excellent ways to kickstart a career in cloud computing.

Gaining Hands-On Experience With Google Cloud Platform

Google Cloud Platform (GCP) is an accessible choice for beginners, providing free credits* and a straightforward interface. Here’s how to start gaining practical experience:

1. Observe Real-World Cases. GCP powers applications like Google Photos and YouTube, providing scalable and reliable infrastructure. Understanding these use cases can give aspiring professionals insight into how cloud computing fuels popular applications and what to consider when building scalable applications.
2. Create a GCP Account. Register for a Google Cloud Platform account to access a $300 credit, allowing the freedom to explore different services.
3. Explore GCP’s Interface. Get familiar with GCP’s intuitive interface and comprehensive documentation. This will help build an understanding of how cloud services are organized and accessed.
4. Start Beginner Projects. Simple projects can enhance skills significantly. For example:

• Host a Basic Website. Deploying a static or dynamic site will teach a beginner how to handle web hosting, storage and security settings.
• Run Machine Learning Models. GCP offers several machine learning tools, including TensorFlow, that can be experimented with—even with minimal coding knowledge.
  *Please note: this information is up-to-date as of Nov 2024. Changes may occur. 
   

At-Home Resources to Learn Cloud Computing

Dr. Abu Shattal shares that there are numerous at-home resources for aspiring professionals who want to start learning cloud computing. This includes:

• Books. Titles like “Cloud Computing: Concepts, Technology & Architecture” by Thomas Erl cover essential cloud concepts and technology, which can make them great for foundational learning.
• Courses. Explore cloud computing learning paths on LinkedIn Learning, AWS Academy or Google Cloud Training. These platforms offer structured content to guide users from basic to advanced topics and can be very beneficial when learning cloud computing from scratch. They can also garner a cloud computing certification, depending on the course.
• Online Communities. Engage with communities such as Reddit’s cloud computing groups, Cloud Academy forums and Stack Overflow to ask questions, share experiences and learn from others.
• Podcasts and Webinars. Listening to industry experts through podcasts or webinars is an excellent way to stay updated with the latest trends. Topics may include how to learn cloud computing, which cloud computing certifications are best for beginners, new or relevant cloud resources, emerging technologies, best practices and real-world challenges in cloud computing.
   

Key Concepts to Learn in Cloud Computing

To build expertise in cloud computing, start by learning the foundational concepts. This includes:

• Virtualization and Containers. Virtualization allows multiple virtual machines (VMs) to run on a single physical machine. Containers, such as Docker, provide isolated environments for applications, which simplify deployment and scaling.
• Serverless Architecture. Serverless computing enables developers to build and run applications without managing server infrastructure.
• Cloud Security. This area of cloud computing covers encryption, cloud infrastructure, identity management and regulatory compliance.
• Data Storage and Cloud-Based Networking. Understanding cloud-based storage options, relational databases, and cloud networking principles is crucial for managing data flow and accessibility.
   

Why You Need Projects to Learn Cloud Computing 

Dr. Abu Shattal emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, saying that working on real-world projects is an indispensable part of learning cloud computing.

"Projects not only reinforce skills but also provide demonstrable achievements for potential employers. Building personal projects, freelancing or contributing to open-source initiatives showcases your abilities and connects you with a professional community," he said.

Consider starting with a simple web app that can be deployed on a platform like GCP or AWS. This practical experience will enhance your understanding of deployment, networking and storage, building a solid base for more advanced projects.

Certifications: Boost Your Knowledge and Career

Certifications are invaluable for validating your skills and standing out in the job market. Some of the most popular beginner certifications include Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer, AWS Certified Solutions Architect (Associate) and Microsoft Azure Fundamentals.

A cloud computing certification course offers more than just credibility; it demonstrates a commitment to learning and adapting in a fast-evolving field. Dr. Abu Shattal notes that many industries now prioritize practical skills and certifications over traditional degrees, recognizing the importance of adaptability and expertise in cloud technologies.

To choose the right certification path, consider your professional goals, industry demands and the specific skill sets required for your desired career.

How a Degree Can Help You Master Cloud Computing

For those looking to develop a more comprehensive understanding of cloud computing, a formal education can be beneficial.

A bachelor's degree in cloud computing not only covers technical aspects but also provides insights into cloud architecture, security, project management and emerging technologies. It's also important to note that degree programs often integrate certifications and hands-on labs, offering a structured approach to mastering cloud technologies.

According to Dr. Abu Shattal, this is the most comprehensive of the options, saying that "a degree combined with certifications prepares graduates to stay at the forefront of emerging trends, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and edge computing, accelerating career growth and opening doors to advanced roles."

Ready to Learn Cloud Computing? Get Started Today! 

Building foundational knowledge, gaining hands-on experience and obtaining certifications are important steps toward becoming a pro in cloud technology.

For those interested in a formal educational path, Franklin University’s cloud computing bachelor's degree offers a structured curriculum to develop the skills necessary for a successful career in cloud computing.

Visit the program page or apply today and embrace the opportunities that cloud computing offers.

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