How to Learn Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is the act of delivering IT resources on-demand to users over the internet, which typically involves a pay-as-you-go compensation structure. This form of technology eliminates the need for your organization to own and maintain physical data servers or centers; instead, technologies like information storage, databases, and computing power can be purchased from a cloud provider as needed. The number of options for learning cloud computing might be overwhelming at first glance. There are books, video tutorials, classes, and more to choose from; it all depends on your learning style and personal preferences. 

Here, we’ll discuss the various methods of learning cloud computing so you can make an informed decision about how you’d like to get started.

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.

In-Person Cloud Computing Training

If you want to learn cloud computing in an interactive, engaging format, in-person coursework is for you. Students who enroll in in-person study have access to a computer lab that has the most up-to-date cloud computing software and tools already installed. As you complete coursework, you not only have the benefit of in-the-moment feedback from an expert instructor, but you also have the opportunity to network with other like-minded learners. Although this learning method requires commuting to and from campus for regularly scheduled classes, which can mean having to take off work and spend money commuting to and from class, attending in-person coursework is an excellent way to ensure you receive hands-on training in the small class setting from an instructor who has real-world experience working in cloud computing environments.

In-person cybersecurity classes provide students with a solid foundation in a range of cloud computing skills. Noble Desktop’s Cybersecurity Bootcamp prepares students for a career in cybersecurity. Those enrolled in this hands-on class learn how to secure networks and applications, evaluate various security threats, and use Python and Linux to prevent cyberattacks. Noble also has Intro to Cybersecurity & Networks, a course that covers the basics of cybersecurity, like security protocols and how Python and Linux can be used to improve security.

For those who are new to cybersecurity, Flatiron School’s Cybersecurity Analytics provides the training needed to begin a career as a Tier 1+ SOC Analyst, a Consultant, or a Security Analyst. This 12-week program covers event management, security intelligence, and network administration. In addition, NGT Academy’s Cyber Security Program is an introductory-level course that allows participants to choose whether to complete their work part-time or full-time. Those who successfully complete this course are given CompTIA certificates and NCS awards to signify their achievement. For students interested in advanced cybersecurity training, the University of Utah Professional Education Boot Camps provides Cybersecurity Boot Camp. This 24-week course provides instruction on topics like how to work with web technologies and databases, as well as how to perform both offensive and defensive cybersecurity.

Live Online Cloud Computing Training

Studying cloud computing in the live online format is an excellent way to receive hands-on training from industry experts. Similar to in-person study, live online courses occur in real-time, which provides an opportunity for students to connect to an instructor, as well as other students, using a platform like Zoom or Teams. Instead of having to commute to and from campus to attend class, and waste time searching for parking, students can complete all coursework remotely from their home or office space. This flexible, engaging learning format provides a platform where you can ask questions as they arise and receive immediate feedback on your work. Although enrolling in live online courses may require taking off work to attend class meetings, this learning format provides hands-on training that can help you pursue a career in cloud computing or cybersecurity.

Many live online cloud computing and cybersecurity classes are available from top educational providers. Noble Desktop offers several cybersecurity classes. For those who are new to cybersecurity, Noble’s Intro to Cybersecurity & Networks is a great starting point. This hands-on class provides instruction on topics like security protocols, network models, and using Python and Linux for cybersecurity. Python for Network Security teaches participants how to use Python programming to monitor networks. Noble’s Digital Forensics provides instruction on the structure of a modern security operations center. In addition, 

In addition to Noble’s cybersecurity courses, other educators also have live online classes devoted to online security. Neoland’s Cybersecurity Part-Time is an introductory-level bootcamp that teaches participants offensive and defensive security. Another beginner-friendly course is available from NGT Academy. Its Cyber Security Program is available on a part-time or full-time live online basis. Students who graduate earn a CompTIA certificate. Craft Academy’s 12-week course, Cybersecurity, provides an overview of cybersecurity, including cyber-defense, hardware and networking, and forensics. In addition, Eleven Fifty Academy’s Cybersecurity Program Full-Time helps students acclimate to an enterprise SOC environment.

Free Online Courses & Tutorials

If you’re not quite ready to dive into a full course on cloud computing, other online learning options are available. For those interested in an overview of this field, you can start learning for free online. Many top educational providers offer free online content devoted to cloud computing and related topics.

Udacity’s Introduction to Cloud Computing is a two-month, beginner-level course in which participants prepare for a career in cloud computing. This class provides instruction on deployment models, AWS, and serverless architecture. For those who want to learn how to work with AWS, Cloud Computing with Amazon Web Services is offered for free from Amazon. Three hours of video content is available about AWS services, S3 cloud storage, and cloud infrastructure. Coursera also provides a free course, Introduction to Cloud Computing. Instruction is provided on the evolution of cloud computing, as well as the various cloud deployment models. If you want to become familiar with Microsoft Azure, Udemy’s Learning Microsoft Azure offers an hour of video content that prepares students to work with its infrastructure and services. For those who wish to gain an overview of cloud computing, Pluralsight’s Fundamentals of Cloud Computing provides two hours of introductory-level videos on the risks and benefits of working with cloud computing.

Read about more free cloud computing videos and online tutorials.

On-Demand Cloud Computing Classes

If you are interested in learning cloud computing but aren’t ready to commit to a class that meets regularly, self-paced study options are a great alternative. Self-paced cloud computing material, such as online tutorials, blogs, YouTube videos, and on-demand coursework, is pre-recorded. This means you can access it from any location, any time of the day, on any day of the week. This flexible learning format allows those who wish to learn more about cloud computing to begin studying this topic, while balancing their coursework with professional or family commitments. Students who elect to study in the asynchronous learning environment also get to dictate the speed at which they learn cloud computing; video content can be paused, rewound, and watched repeatedly to facilitate note-taking and help with retention. 

Since on-demand classwork doesn’t provide access to an instructor, these courses are best suited for those who are interested in beginner-level cloud computing study rather than those looking to master complex cloud skills for professional reasons. Since most asynchronous cloud computing material is offered for much less money than bootcamps or certificate study (some is even posted for free), it’s an effective, low-stakes way to begin learning about cloud computing without having to invest hundreds or thousands in bootcamps or certificate programs. When selecting on-demand cloud computing materials, choosing the most up-to-date material is important, as this is a rapidly evolving field.

On-demand cloud computing classes are available from many reputable online providers. If you’re new to cloud computing and want to learn the basics, Udemy’s Getting Started with Cloud Computing - Level 1 is for you. Students learn the basics of cloud computing and receive instruction on the three main service models and four cloud deployment models. Coursera’s Microsoft Azure Fundamentals AZ-900 Exam Prep Specialization is a beginner-level course that provides instruction to help students prepare for the Azure Fundamentals AZ-900 exam. This Microsoft certification course is broken into four sub-courses that teach core exam skills and concepts like management tools, solutions, network security, governance, and compliance features. edX also has a range of cloud computing courses available to beginners as well as more advanced learners. Students can choose from classes like Introduction to Cloud Computing, Essential Technologies for Business, Cloud Computing Security, and IBM Cloud Essentials.

Which Learning Method is Right for Me?

Because there are so many resources available to help beginners learn cloud computing, you might be unsure which one is best for you. Everyone has different learning styles and preferences, and you can experiment with multiple learning options to decide which one feels right for you. One of the great things about directing your own learning path is that you get to pick which combination of tools you prefer rather than only working with those selected by a teacher.

It’s also essential to consider your current schedule before choosing a learning method. If you are balancing responsibilities like a full-time job or family commitments, you may not be able to devote time to a structured course that requires you to attend at the same time every day. In this case, a self-paced class or video tutorials may be a better way to learn since you can access them when your schedule allows. On the other hand, those with a more flexible schedule may prefer a structured course offered in-person or live online. 

Why Learn Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing provides users with many benefits. It offers flexible resources, quicker innovation capacities, and economies of scale. Cloud computing is typically a cost-effective solution for businesses because you only need to pay for the cloud services you use, which can significantly reduce operating costs. In addition, it can help organizations run their infrastructures more efficiently. When working with cloud computing, tasks such as disaster recovery and data backups are easier to perform and less expensive since the data can be mirrored at various redundant sites on the provider’s network.

Before the advent of cloud computing, the costs associated with buying hardware and software, as well as time and energy setting it up on onsite data centers, quickly added up. These data centers require constant electricity for powering and cooling, and organizations needed to hire employees with IT training to manage it all. Cloud computing eliminates those costs so IT professionals can devote their time and effort to more pressing business endeavors. In addition, because the majority of cloud computing services are available as self-service, on-demand services, they provide fast access to huge stores of computing resources. Another benefit of working with cloud computing is that the largest services operate on a global network of secure data centers. These centers receive regular updates and often operate with the most efficient hardware, which leads to better performance.

Read more about why you should learn cloud computing.

Level of Difficulty, Prerequisites, & Cost 

Over the past several years, cloud computing has become increasingly popular. Many businesses are seeing the value in the efficiency and cost reductions cloud computing provides and are adopting the technologies needed to make the switch. Because of the increasing interest in this field, individuals from both technical and non-technical backgrounds are considering learning more about working in the cloud environment. If you’re interested in a cloud computing career, you may wonder how hard it is to learn.

Most people who pursue cloud computing consider it to be a relatively difficult field to learn, especially when leatheir own. Because this skill requires studying a range of business requirements, such as implementing back-office enterprise systems, it takes time and expert training to acquire cloud computing skills. Because networks serve as the foundation of cloud computing, it’s also important for learners to have a detailed understanding of core networking concepts. In addition to business knowledge, those who wish to become Cloud Developers typically must also have a background in API design and programming. This requires technical training in a field like computer science, as well as knowledge of at least one programming language, such as Python. The good news is that most programming languages are open-source, which means they are available for free. 

Another reason why learning cloud computing is considered a challenging task is because it requires that students handle a lot of complexity. Cloud Developers and Cloud Computing Architects must deal with large-scale complexity, such as when working with large platforms such as the Google cloud computing platform, Microsoft Azure, or AWS. This generally requires designing blueprints that help an application function. Additionally, these professionals must manage both minor and major details, such as various services on the cloud computing platform, as well as the services a software app calls upon. This can require extensive note-taking and record-keeping. Those who work with cloud computing also should be familiar with Linux, a family of open-source operating systems that is available for free. This often requires hands-on training.

Read about how difficult it is to learn cloud computing.

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.

Key Insights

• The field of cloud computing involves providing IT resources to users on an on-demand basis via the internet. It uses a pay-as-you-go structure in which computing power, databases, and storage can be bought from a cloud provider on an as-need basis.
• A variety of class options are available in cloud computing and cybersecurity in the in-person and online environments. In-person and live online courses provide access to a live instructor, whereas on-demand online content is pre-recorded and can be completed on your own time and at your own pace. 
• Deciding which learning method is best for you will likely depend on your current work schedule, family and personal commitments, and your ability to attend regularly meeting classes. 
• You can receive comprehensive cloud computing training through an in-person or live online course with Noble Desktop.