Top 35 Cloud Computing Interview Questions & Answers in 2025
Updated on Feb 07, 2025 | 23 min read | 96.1k views
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Updated on Feb 07, 2025 | 23 min read | 96.1k views
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Communicating with anyone, anywhere in the world, is now possible within seconds. Accessing information on nearly any topic is also easy, with the internet putting vast knowledge right at our fingertips. Thanks to cloud computing, this is the new reality. We can now access services, applications, and information stored on remote servers instead of just on local computers.
Did You Know? The global Public Cloud market revenue is expected to reach 934.30 billion USD in 2025! This also indicates the growing relevance of the cloud industry and indicates the demand for skilled professionals in this field.
So, if you too are interested in a cloud computing role and are looking to prepare for a cloud job interview, you are at the right place.
In this comprehensive guide, we have compiled a list of the top 35 cloud computing interview questions and answers for you. Whether you’re new to cloud computing or have some experience, these questions will get you ready for your next interview.
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We have categorized cloud computing interview questions into various categories so that you can be better prepared for the type of cloud computing interview questions that can be expected of you. Read along as well decode each question and provide you valuable pointers to answer the questions:
These questions cover the basics of cloud computing. They're perfect for freshers and entry-level candidates who must show a foundational understanding of cloud concepts. Each question is followed by the main points to include and an example answer in simple language.
1. What is cloud computing, and why is it important?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services like servers, storage, databases, and software over the internet. This means users can access resources without needing to own them physically. It’s important because it provides flexibility, scales to meet changing demands, and often reduces costs by paying only for what’s used.”
2. Name and explain the different types of cloud services.
Points to Include:
Answer:
“There are three main types of cloud services: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). IaaS provides essential computing resources like servers and storage. PaaS offers a platform allowing users to develop, test, and manage applications. SaaS delivers software applications over the internet, so users don’t need to install them locally.”
3. Describe the main deployment models in cloud computing.
Points to Include:
Answer:
“The main deployment models in cloud computing are public, private, hybrid, and community clouds. A public cloud is shared and managed by third-party providers like AWS or Google Cloud. A private cloud is dedicated to one organization and offers more control. A hybrid cloud combines both public and private clouds for greater flexibility. A community cloud is shared by organizations with similar needs, like government bodies.”
4. What are the benefits and limitations of cloud computing?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Cloud computing offers many benefits, like scalability, flexibility, cost savings, and disaster recovery. It allows organizations to access resources from anywhere and scale up or down based on needs. However, there are some limitations, such as concerns about data security, dependency on a stable internet connection, and possible downtime.”
5. How does on-demand self-service work in cloud computing?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“On-demand self-service in cloud computing lets users automatically access resources like storage or servers whenever they need, without human intervention. This is beneficial because it speeds up access, allows users to scale resources easily, and gives them more control over their usage.”
These questions focus on intermediate-level concepts, covering cloud infrastructure, deployment methods, and how cloud environments are managed. Each question includes key points to cover and a simple, clear answer.
6. Explain the difference between IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS with examples.
Points to Include:
Answer:
“IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS are three main cloud service models. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provides basic infrastructure like virtual machines and storage (e.g., Amazon EC2). Platform as a Service (PaaS) offers a platform for building and deploying applications (e.g., Google App Engine). Software as a Service (SaaS) delivers applications over the internet, ready to use (e.g., Gmail or Microsoft 365). Each model supports different needs, with IaaS being the most flexible, PaaS catering to developers, and SaaS offering complete software solutions.”
7. What is virtualization, and how is it used in cloud computing?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Virtualization is the process of creating virtual versions of physical resources like servers, storage, and networks. In cloud computing, virtualization allows a single physical machine to run multiple virtual environments, called virtual machines (VMs). This makes better use of hardware, allows resource sharing, and enables cloud providers to offer flexible and scalable services.”
8. How do cloud providers ensure data availability and fault tolerance?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Cloud providers ensure data availability and fault tolerance by using data replication, redundancy, and backup. They store data in multiple data centers or availability zones, so if one fails, the data is still accessible from another. They also have failover systems that automatically switch to a backup if an issue occurs, minimizing downtime and data loss.”
9. Describe auto-scaling and load balancing in cloud environments.
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Auto-scaling and load balancing are two key features in cloud environments. Auto-scaling automatically adjusts the number of resources based on demand, so more resources are added when usage is high, and reduced when usage is low. Load balancing distributes incoming traffic across multiple servers to prevent any single server from getting overwhelmed, improving performance and reliability.”
10. What is the difference between public, private, and hybrid clouds?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Public, private, and hybrid clouds are different deployment models. A public cloud is managed by a third-party provider and shared across multiple clients, ideal for scalability and cost savings (e.g., AWS, Azure). A private cloud is dedicated to one organization, offering more control and security but usually at a higher cost. A hybrid cloud combines both public and private models, allowing businesses to balance security and flexibility by using a private cloud for sensitive tasks and a public cloud for less sensitive workloads.”
These questions test knowledge of cloud security, data protection, and compliance standards, essential areas for cloud roles, especially those with a focus on security and risk management. Each question includes key points and a straightforward answer.
11. What are some common security risks in cloud computing?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Some common security risks in cloud computing include data breaches, where unauthorized users access sensitive information, and data loss due to accidental deletion or attacks. Account hijacking is another risk, where attackers use compromised credentials to gain access. Insider threats involve employees or contractors misusing access, and insecure APIs can open vulnerabilities if not properly secured. Additionally, compliance risks can arise if data isn’t stored or handled according to regional or industry regulations.”
12. How do you ensure data privacy and compliance in cloud services?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Data privacy and compliance in cloud services can be ensured by encrypting data both at rest and in transit, so only authorized users can access it. Implementing access controls through Identity and Access Management (IAM) limits access to sensitive data. Following compliance standards, like GDPR for data protection and HIPAA for healthcare data, helps meet regulatory requirements. Regular audits and security monitoring help detect and fix vulnerabilities, and choosing cloud providers that are compliant with necessary standards is also essential.”
13. Explain the concept of identity and access management (IAM) in the cloud.
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Identity and Access Management (IAM) is a framework that helps control who has access to cloud resources. IAM uses user roles and permissions to ensure that only authorized users can access specific data or applications. It also includes security features like multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add extra protection. By setting specific roles and permissions, IAM ensures secure access and reduces the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive information.”
14. What are cloud security best practices?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Cloud security best practices include using strong access controls through IAM to restrict data access and requiring multi-factor authentication for added security. Regular data backups and a disaster recovery plan ensure data availability in case of incidents. Data should be encrypted both at rest and in transit. Keeping systems and software up to date with regular patches prevents vulnerabilities, while continuous monitoring and logging help detect and respond to any security threats quickly.”
15. How do encryption and tokenization protect cloud data?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Encryption protects cloud data by converting it into a coded format that can only be read with a decryption key, keeping data secure both in storage and transit. Tokenization replaces sensitive data with random tokens that have no meaning outside the system, so if tokens are intercepted, they’re useless to attackers. Both methods reduce the risk of data exposure, especially in case of a security breach.”
These questions test knowledge of cloud architecture and infrastructure design, ideal for candidates with experience in designing, deploying, and optimizing systems on the cloud. Each answer includes essential points and a clear, straightforward response.
16. Describe the components of a cloud architecture.
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Cloud architecture has several core components. The front-end platform is the user interface, usually a web or mobile app that allows users to interact with the cloud. The back-end platform includes servers, databases, and storage that process and manage data. Cloud-based delivery enables access over the internet, and the network connects front-end and back-end components. Middleware facilitates communication between various applications and services within the architecture.”
17. How would you design a highly available and scalable system on the cloud?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“To design a highly available and scalable cloud system, I’d use a multi-region or multi-zone setup to protect against single-point failures. Load balancers would distribute incoming traffic evenly, preventing any one server from being overloaded. Auto-scaling would adjust resources up or down based on user demand, ensuring the system can handle traffic spikes and stay cost-effective during low-traffic times. Data redundancy and regular backups ensure data security and quick recovery, and performance metrics would be monitored regularly to keep the system optimized.”
18. What is serverless architecture, and how does it benefit cloud applications?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Serverless architecture is a model where code runs in response to events without the need to manage or provision servers. Cloud providers handle all the infrastructure and automatically scale resources based on demand. This setup reduces costs, as billing is based on actual usage rather than pre-allocated resources. Serverless is particularly useful for event-driven applications and simplifies the deployment and management of applications by removing the responsibility of server maintenance.”
19. Explain the role of APIs in cloud services and their importance in integration.
Points to Include:
Answer:
“APIs, or Application Programming Interfaces, allow different applications or services to communicate and interact. In cloud services, they are crucial for integrating third-party services and accessing cloud resources. APIs enable automation of tasks, like scaling or deploying new instances, and facilitate data exchange and synchronization across applications, making them key to creating seamless and integrated cloud-based solutions.”
20. What are the key considerations when designing a cloud-based application?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Key considerations for designing a cloud-based application include scalability, making sure the app can handle an increase in users or workload without performance issues. Cost-efficiency is important to optimize resources and control expenses. Security and compliance should be top priorities to protect data and meet regulatory requirements. Reliability is essential for ensuring high availability, so users can access the app without interruption. Lastly, performance is important to keep the app responsive and efficient as demand changes.”
These questions focus on data storage solutions, redundancy, and best practices in cloud environments. They are targeted at experienced candidates with knowledge of large-scale data management and compliance in the cloud.
21. What are the different types of data storage available in the cloud?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Cloud storage offers several types of storage options. Object storage is commonly used for storing unstructured data like files and images. Block storage divides data into smaller blocks and provides fast access, making it ideal for databases and applications that need low latency. File storage organizes data in a hierarchical file structure, commonly used for shared access across applications. Archive storage is a low-cost solution for data accessed infrequently, like backups. Lastly, cloud providers offer managed database storage for both relational and NoSQL databases.”
22. How would you handle data redundancy and backups in a cloud environment?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“To ensure data redundancy and effective backups in the cloud, I would use multi-zone replication to store copies of data across different regions, minimizing the risk of data loss if one zone goes down. Regular automated backups and snapshots would be scheduled to keep recent data versions available. Implementing versioning allows retention of multiple versions, which is useful if data is accidentally deleted or modified. Testing recovery processes regularly is crucial to make sure that data can be restored quickly and correctly.”
23. Explain the difference between object storage and block storage in the cloud.
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Object storage and block storage differ in structure and use. Object storage keeps data in units called objects, each with a unique identifier, and is accessed through APIs. It’s suitable for storing unstructured data, such as media files or backups. Block storage divides data into small blocks, which are stored separately and provide faster access, making it ideal for databases and dynamic applications. Object storage works best when data doesn’t change often, while block storage is perfect for applications that need quick data access.”
24. How do cloud storage systems handle large-scale data management?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Cloud storage systems manage large-scale data through data partitioning, which breaks datasets into smaller parts for easier handling. They use automatic scaling to grow with data needs without performance drops. Data indexing is applied to make retrieval faster and more efficient. Replication and redundancy techniques ensure data is available across multiple locations to prevent data loss. Automated data lifecycle management further organizes data by moving it into hot, cold, or archive storage, depending on how frequently it’s accessed.”
25. What is data sovereignty, and how does it impact cloud storage?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Data sovereignty means that certain legal requirements mandate data to be stored within specific national or regional boundaries. This impacts cloud storage choices since organizations need to comply with data sovereignty laws in the countries they operate. Data residency requirements may dictate selecting cloud regions that match these laws. Consequently, businesses often choose providers with data centers in specific locations to ensure compliance. Data sovereignty laws are crucial for data privacy and security, as they enforce additional protections through regional control.”
In cloud computing, infrastructure, and operations are crucial in maintaining efficient, scalable, and reliable environments. Understanding the underlying structure and functions, including cloud types, data availability, auto-scaling, and disaster recovery, is key for cloud professionals. These questions cover essential concepts needed to manage and optimize cloud environments.
26. What are the key differences between public, private, and hybrid clouds?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Public, private, and hybrid clouds differ in structure and use. Public clouds are provided over the internet by third parties, making them scalable and cost-effective but shared among multiple users. Private clouds are dedicated to a single organization, providing higher security and custom settings. Hybrid clouds combine public and private elements, allowing data and applications to move between them, balancing flexibility and security. Public clouds suit scalable apps, private clouds handle sensitive data, and hybrid clouds meet flexible needs.”
27. Explain auto-scaling and load balancing in cloud environments.
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Auto-scaling automatically adjusts the number of resources based on demand, keeping applications running smoothly without manual intervention. Load balancing spreads incoming traffic across multiple servers, preventing any single server from being overloaded. Together, they ensure application reliability, manageability, and scalability. Auto-scaling helps handle traffic spikes, and load balancing maintains even distribution for seamless access.”
28. What is the role of containers and Kubernetes in cloud infrastructure?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Containers are portable units that package applications with all dependencies, making them easy to deploy consistently across different environments. Kubernetes is an orchestration tool that manages these containers, automating deployment, scaling, and operations across clusters. Containers allow rapid scaling and deployment, ideal for microservices, while Kubernetes simplifies large-scale container management, improving efficiency and scalability.”
29. How does cloud computing support disaster recovery?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Cloud computing supports disaster recovery by replicating data across multiple regions, so copies are available if there’s an outage. Automated recovery tools help retrieve data quickly, reducing downtime and minimizing disruption. It’s also cost-effective, as it eliminates the need for physical backup sites. Cloud environments allow flexible recovery strategies, and many providers offer simulated drills to test and prepare for disaster recovery scenarios.”
30. What is the Difference Between Rolling Deployment and Blue-Green Deployment?
Here is a table highlighting major differences between Rolling Deployment and Blue-Green Deployment based on various parameters:
Parameter | Rolling Deployment | Blue-Green Deployment |
Deployment Approach | Gradually updates instances in a single environment. | Maintains two separate environments (blue and green) and switches traffic between them. |
Downtime in Cloud | Minimal downtime as updates are done batch-wise. | Zero downtime as traffic is only switched after full deployment. |
Rollback Strategy | Requires sequential rollback of updated instances. | Instant rollback by switching traffic to the previous environment. |
Infrastructure Usage | Requires fewer resources, as only one environment is used. | Requires duplicate resources for maintaining two environments. |
Scenarios in Cloud | Ideal for frequent minor updates where gradual changes are acceptable. | Best for large-scale or critical updates requiring seamless user experience. |
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31. What are the key benefits of using automation in cloud environments?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Automation in cloud environments provides several benefits, including increased efficiency by reducing manual intervention, consistent deployments through repeatable processes, fewer human errors, and improved scalability. It also helps manage cloud costs by automating resource provisioning based on demand, ensuring optimal use of cloud services.”
32. How do you ensure continuous security compliance in an automated DevOps pipeline?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Continuous security compliance is achieved by integrating security practices into the DevOps pipeline (DevSecOps). Automated security checks, such as code scanning with tools like Snyk or AWS Security Hub, are incorporated into CI/CD pipelines. Automated vulnerability scanning, policy enforcement, and compliance validation are continuously performed to ensure security and compliance throughout development.”
33.What is the role of Chaos Engineering in cloud automation, and how do you implement it?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Chaos Engineering involves intentionally injecting failures into cloud systems to test resilience and improve system reliability. In cloud automation, tools like Gremlin or Chaos Monkey automate chaos experiments, allowing teams to simulate faults and ensure that systems can recover gracefully. It helps proactively identify weak points in the infrastructure and improve fault tolerance.”
34. How do you ensure continuous security compliance in an automated DevOps pipeline?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Continuous security compliance is achieved by integrating security practices into the DevOps pipeline (DevSecOps). Automated security checks, such as code scanning with tools like Snyk or AWS Security Hub, are incorporated into CI/CD pipelines. Automated vulnerability scanning, policy enforcement, and compliance validation are continuously performed to ensure security and compliance throughout development.”
35. How do you integrate monitoring and logging into cloud automation for proactive issue resolution?
Points to Include:
Answer:
“Monitoring and logging are critical for proactive issue resolution in DevOps. Tools like Prometheus for monitoring and ELK Stack for logging provide real-time insights into system performance. Automated alerting via CloudWatch or Prometheus triggers notifications when issues arise, enabling teams to resolve them promptly. This continuous feedback loop enhances system reliability.”
Today, cloud computing is a must-have skill as more businesses rely on it to store, process, and share data. Whether you’re new to the field or have some experience, here are essential skills to focus on for a cloud computing interview.
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Getting ready for a cloud computing interview? Here are some practical tips to help you prepare, stay confident, and present your skills effectively.
Cloud computing has changed how we work and store information. It lets businesses use powerful computing services online, like servers, storage, and databases, without needing physical space or heavy machines. This technology has created many new career paths. People with cloud skills are in high demand, and the field offers many good job options.
Through this interview guide, we aimed to provide you with an in-depth understanding of the kind of cloud computing interview questions that you can face in a job interview. With prior understanding, you will be able to answer better and make a good impression on the interviewer.
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References:
https://www.statista.com/topics/1695/cloud-computing/
https://www.statista.com/outlook/tmo/public-cloud/worldwide
https://www.interviewbit.com/cloud-computing-interview-questions/
https://www.datacamp.com/blog/cloud-computing-interview-questions
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