Best Free Cloud Computing Resources & Tutorials

There are plenty of professionals who are eager to learn cloud computing but hesitate because of the perceived up-front costs. The programming languages used in cloud computing are open-source, which means they are free. In addition, cloud services like Azure and AWS are available as a pay-as-you-go platform that allows you to only pay for the specific services you need for as long as you need them. Plus, many free resources are also available to help beginners get the hang of working with cloud computing.

Read on to learn more about the different types of free resources and tutorials available to help you get started studying cloud computing. 

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing involves delivering computing services, such as databases, servers, software, intelligence, analytics, and storage, over the internet, or the “cloud.” Instead of storing files on a local storage device or one’s hard drive, cloud-based storage provides a way to save them to a remote database. Any electronic device that can access the internet can then access the data, as well as the software programs needed to run it.

Different types of clouds, as well as cloud computing options, are available, including various services and models. Cloud services can be deployed in three ways: on a private cloud, a public cloud, or a hybrid cloud. Private clouds are used solely by one organization. It is either physically located in the organization’s onsite data center or is hosted by a third-party service provider. Public clouds are owned and run by third-party cloud service providers. This provider delivers computing resources via the internet. In public clouds, the cloud provider owns all the supporting infrastructure like software and hardware and is in charge of managing it. Hybrid clouds are a combination of private and public clouds that share data and applications. Since apps and data move between public and private clouds in a hybrid cloud, this format provides organizations with additional deployment options, security, and flexibility. 

Nearly all cloud computing services fall into four categories: infrastructure as a service, platform as a service, serverless, and software as a service. Since they build on one another, these four services are often called the cloud computing “stack.”

Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) is the most rudimentary of the four services. Those using IaaS rent their IT infrastructures, such as virtual machines, servers, networks, and storage, from a cloud provider using a pay-as-you-go structure. Platform as a service (PaaS) provides on-demand environments to develop, test, deliver, and manage various software apps. PaaS allows Developers to easily and quickly design mobile or web apps since they do not need to create or manage the servers’ databases, storage capacity, or network. Serverless computing allows users to focus their efforts on creating apps rather than managing the infrastructure and services needed to do so. Instead, the cloud provider takes care of setup and server management. The fourth cloud computing service is software as a service (SaaS). This method delivers software apps on an on-demand basis over the internet and generally involves a subscription. Cloud providers are tasked with hosting and managing the infrastructure and apps, as well as performing maintenance tasks like updating software. Those who wish to connect to the app do so over the internet. 

Read more about what cloud computing is and why you should learn it.

What Can You Do with Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing is a skill that can open many professional doors, lead to competitive salaries, and provide you with the training and skills to stand out to a range of recruiters and employers. Currently, cloud computing is one of the most in-demand skills you can have on your resume. According to U.S. News and World Report, the number-one job in America in 2022 is Information Security Analyst. These individuals safeguard the information stored in an organization’s computer system from cyberattacks and data breaches, often in the cloud environment. Whether you want to pursue a cybersecurity career or employment in a related field like web development or cloud development, cloud computing is likely to play an integral role in your professional responsibilities. The demand for those with cloud computing skills will likely increase over the next decade as more companies realize the benefits of cloud environments.

Cloud computing allows businesses and organizations to reduce expenses by using resources from several providers instead of just one. This can lead to a significant reduction in operating costs. Not only does cloud computing save money, but it improves a company’s flexibility. It provides a way for users to access apps and data when and where it’s needed. Working in the cloud environment also improves an organization’s agility by allowing users to easily and quickly deploy services and applications. 

Another benefit of working with cloud computing is that it provides a secure data environment with which users can securely access their data from any location. Because it’s made the internet more reliable and improved the speed by which information can be accessed, cloud computing often improves employee productivity. It also provides a way to stay current with technology trends. Additionally, because cloud computing relies on state-of-the-art data centers and cutting-edge technology, it can also reduce an organization’s carbon footprint.

Free Resources for Studying Cloud Computing

If you’re searching for free resources to help you learn cloud computing, look no further. The following are just a few helpful and free resources that cover core cloud computing concepts and skills:

• Noble Desktop’s Blog & Learn Resources has a page devoted exclusively to web development, a field closely related to cloud computing. This free resource contains more than 80 articles on topics such as using the React framework and Django, as well as creating a strong web development portfolio.
• Journal of Cloud Computingwas launched in 2010. This online resource contains more than 200 peer-reviewed, open-access science journals. Books are also available for those interested in downloading comprehensive cloud computing resources.
• Coursera’s Cloud Computing Basics is a great resource for in-depth exploration of Microsoft Azure. This fully online, introductory-level class offers instruction on how APIs relate to cloud computing, the differences between various cloud deployment models, and how to decide which managed service is best for you.
• LinkedIn Learning offers several classes from David Linthicum, Deloitte Counseling’s Chief Cloud Strategy Officer. Linthicum was recently recognized as the leading cloud influencer. If you’re interested in studying with this cloud computing expert, you can do so for free by signing up for a trial of LinkedIn Learning.
• Udemy’s Introduction to Cloud Computing is one of the most popular free cloud computing courses available. In just under an hour, students receive instruction on a range of beginner-friendly cloud concepts like essential characteristics, service models, and deployment models. 

Key Insights

• Cloud computing is an umbrella term for delivering computer services like intelligence, servers, software, and analytics, over the internet.
• Cloud computing is a powerful tool that helps organizations cut their expenses by accessing data and applications on an as-needed basis. 
• A variety of free resources are available for those who wish to get started learning about cloud computing but may not want to invest hundreds or thousands of dollars in bootcamp or certificate study. Online tutorials, blogs, YouTube videos, and self-paced courses are just a few free study options available from top educational providers.
• If you’re interested in learning cloud computing, Noble Desktop’s in-person and live online courses are a great way to study this popular field.

Learn Web Development & Cybersecurity Skills with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

One great way to learn many of the skills associated with cloud computing is to enroll in a course or bootcamp with Noble Desktop. Noble’s Cloud Computing with AWS prepares students to create and secure an enterprise-level cloud environment. Those enrolled in this hands-on class receive expert instruction on how to work with Amazon Web Services (AWS), the most popular cloud computing platform. Participants learn how to navigate the cloud’s infrastructure, as well as how Security Operation Centers can be used in AWS. These relevant skills can help students pursue a career in cybersecurity. Tuition includes the option of a free course retake for up to one year for all students.

Another great option for those interested in working with cybersecurity is Noble’s Cybersecurity Bootcamp. Instruction is provided on protecting networks and apps, evaluating security threats, and using cloud computing, Python, and Linux to prevent cyberattacks. By course completion, students will have a working knowledge of the skills required to work in several in-demand cybersecurity professions, such as Cybersecurity Analyst and Cybersecurity Engineer. In addition to the option of a free course retake, all participants in this intensive program receive one-on-one mentoring.