Top 12 Prerequisites for Cloud Computing? Does Cloud Computing Require Coding?

Cloud computing has revolutionized how businesses operate, providing flexible access to resources like storage, servers, and applications over the internet. With nearly 94% of enterprises already using cloud services in some capacity, it's clear that cloud expertise is no longer optional — it's a necessity.

Before diving into cloud computing, you might wonder: what does it take to get started? Is coding mandatory, or are there other foundational skills to focus on? 

The reality is that while programming can be an asset, cloud computing draws on a broader mix of skills, from understanding databases to grasping basic networking concepts. This article unpacks these prerequisites for cloud computing to help you confidently step into this fast-growing field.

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What are the Prerequisites for Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing is one of the most sought-after fields in today’s tech-driven world, and stepping into it requires a mix of technical and foundational skills. The skills required for cloud computing aren't limited to just programming; they span areas like databases, networking, security, and more.

Why does understanding these skills matter? Think about businesses relying on platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS) to run e-commerce sites or Microsoft Azure to deploy machine learning models. 

Without the right expertise, making use of these services to their full potential becomes challenging.

So, here are the key skills required for cloud computing that will ensure you're equipped to handle diverse scenarios, whether it’s optimizing cloud storage or managing virtual servers.

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Now that you are aware of the skills required for cloud computing, let’s help you explore the ins and outs of all major prerequisites for cloud computing that you must know. Buckle up!

Programming Languages

Programming languages are one of the key prerequisites for cloud computing. They enable you to automate tasks, build applications, and manage cloud infrastructure effectively. 

Why Is Programming Essential?

Cloud platforms often require scripts to automate repetitive tasks, deploy applications, and manage resources efficiently. Programming is also critical for integrating cloud services into existing systems or creating innovative cloud-native solutions.

Here are the primary programming languages that you must know to future-proof your career.

How to Get Started?

If you're new to coding, start with Python for its ease of learning and extensive cloud-related libraries. You can enroll in upGrad’s 8-week Python Programming Bootcamp and get trained by industry experts. 

Gradually explore other languages based on the types of cloud projects you want to work on, such as Java for large-scale systems or PHP for web apps. Mastering these languages will help you grab various opportunities in cloud computing.

Security and Recovery

When it comes to the prerequisites for cloud computing, security and recovery are two of the most critical aspects. Organizations store sensitive data and run crucial operations in the cloud, making it essential to protect these assets from cyber threats and ensure rapid recovery in case of failures. 

Why Are Security and Recovery Essential?

A 2024 report by Statista is truly shocking – 73% of organizations faced phishing attacks on their cloud servers. Furthermore, the user account compromise attacks in the cloud reached 38%. 

Needless to say, cloud platforms are frequent targets for cyberattacks, with businesses losing millions annually to data breaches and ransomware. This makes security and recovery two of the most important prerequisites for cloud computing.

Additionally, unexpected failures, such as outages or data corruption, can disrupt operations and lead to significant losses. 

Understanding how to secure cloud assets and implement recovery plans ensures business continuity and safeguards sensitive information.

Here are the key components of recovery and data security in cloud computing that you must know.

Here’s how you too can build expertise in security and recovery. 

• Learn Cryptography: Start with the basics of encryption and hashing to understand how sensitive data is secured.
• Explore Recovery Tools: Get hands-on experience with backup and disaster recovery solutions like AWS Backup or Azure Site Recovery.
• Understand Compliance Standards: Familiarize yourself with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA to ensure secure and lawful data management.

Also Read: Introduction to Cybersecurity: Everything Beginners Need to Know

Networking

Networking is the foundation and one of the key prerequisites for cloud computing as it connects users to cloud services and enables seamless communication between resources. 

Why Is Networking Essential?

Cloud platforms heavily depend on networking to deliver their services. These are some critical tasks that hinge on networking knowledge:

• Setting up virtual private networks (VPNs)
• Managing traffic flow
• Ensuring secure data transfer 

Without a grasp of concepts like IP addressing, firewalls, and load balancing, managing cloud environments becomes challenging.

These are all the key networking concepts for cloud computing that you need to master for a bright future. 

Here’s a look at how you can build your networking skills.

• Start with the Basics: Learn about IP addressing, subnets, and routing to build a strong foundation.
• Hands-On Practice: Experiment with tools like AWS VPC, Azure Networking, and Google Cloud Virtual Private Cloud.
• Understand Security: Explore advanced topics like firewalls and intrusion detection systems to secure cloud networks.

Also Read: AWS vs Azure: Which Cloud Computing Platform is Right For You?

Virtualization

Virtualization is one of the most obvious prerequisites for cloud computing as it enables the creation of virtual resources like servers, storage, and networks. It allows businesses to optimize hardware usage, reduce costs, and improve scalability by running multiple virtual environments on a single physical machine.

Why Is Learning Virtualization Essential?

In cloud computing, virtualization is what makes resource sharing and dynamic allocation possible. By understanding virtualization in cloud computing, you can manage virtual machines, networks, and storage systems efficiently, making it a critical skill for anyone working in the field. 

Whether you're creating a test environment or scaling applications, virtualization plays a pivotal role.

Explore all the key aspects of virtualization in cloud computing that you need to master, too. 

Here’s a quick cheat guide on how you can build these skills required for cloud computing. 

• Learn About Hypervisors: Start with tools like VMware, Hyper-V, or KVM to understand how virtual machines are managed.
• Experiment with Virtual Machines: Create and manage VMs using platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud to get hands-on experience.
• Explore Containers: Dive into containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes to understand how they enhance virtualization.

Operating Systems

Operating systems (OS) form the foundation of cloud computing environments, managing hardware and software resources efficiently. A solid understanding of operating systems is essential for deploying and maintaining cloud-based solutions.

Why Are Operating Systems Essential?

Cloud platforms rely on operating systems to manage virtual machines, containers, and applications. Knowing how different operating systems function helps you configure and optimize cloud deployments, troubleshoot issues, and ensure compatibility with diverse tools and platforms.

Here are some operating systems you’ll most likely come across in your career. 

You can also check out upGrad’s free tutorial to understand the many types of operating systems. Explore the types, how to choose the right one, and core functions. 

Agile Development

Agile development is one of the most critical prerequisites for cloud computing. It is a modern approach to software development that emphasizes iterative progress, collaboration, and continuous feedback. 

It plays a crucial role in cloud computing, where rapid deployment and updates are often needed to meet dynamic user requirements.

Why Is Agile Development Essential?

In cloud environments, applications are frequently updated to improve functionality or address issues. Agile practices ensure that development teams can quickly adapt to changing demands, incorporate feedback, and deliver value faster. 

Understanding Agile principles helps you streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and maintain high-quality cloud-based solutions.

Here are the key aspects of Agile Development in cloud computing. 

Here’s how you can master this cloud computing prerequisite. 

• Learn Agile Principles: Study methodologies like Scrum and Kanban to understand iterative workflows and project management.
• Practice CI/CD Tools: Use tools like Jenkins, GitLab, or Azure DevOps to automate integration and deployment pipelines.
• Gain Hands-On Experience: Work on cloud-based projects where you can apply Agile practices to manage tasks and deliverables effectively.

Also Read: What is Agile Software Development?

Cloud Service Platforms

Cloud service platforms are one of the incredibly important prerequisites for cloud computing. They offer the tools and services needed to build, deploy, and manage applications in the cloud. 

Familiarity with major platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP) is crucial for utilizing their unique features and maximizing efficiency.

Why Are Cloud Service Platforms Essential?

Every cloud service platform offers distinct tools and capabilities that cater to different business needs. Whether you're deploying machine learning models, managing databases, or setting up virtual machines, understanding how to navigate these platforms is fundamental to success in cloud computing.

Here are some key cloud service platforms and their use cases.

Looking forward to building your expertise in cloud service platforms? These tips will help. 

• Explore Certifications: Start with foundational certifications like AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, Azure Fundamentals, or Google Associate Cloud Engineer.
• Practice Hands-On Labs: Use free-tier offerings to experiment with setting up virtual machines, deploying applications, or managing databases.
• Understand Platform-Specific Tools: Familiarize yourself with platform-specific services, like AWS Lambda for serverless computing or Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE) for containerized applications.

Also Read: Top 11 AWS Certifications That Will Catapult Your Career to New Heights

Different Types of Cloud

Cloud computing offers multiple deployment models tailored to various organizational needs. Understanding these different types of cloud is essential to determine which model best fits specific use cases, whether it’s public, private, or hybrid cloud setups.

Why Understanding Cloud Types Is Essential?

Each cloud type has its own set of advantages and limitations designed to meet the unique demands of businesses. Whether an organization prioritizes scalability, security, or flexibility, selecting the right cloud type ensures optimal performance and cost-efficiency.

Explore the different cloud types below.

Wondering what are their advantages and disadvantages? Here’s a tabulated snapshot that takes you through exactly that. 

DevOps

DevOps is one of the most critical prerequisites for cloud computing that you should master. It is a set of practices that combines software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops) to shorten development cycles, improve collaboration, and deliver high-quality applications faster.

Why DevOps Is Essential?

In cloud environments, the need for agility and efficiency is paramount. DevOps enables teams to perform the following functions. 

• Automate processes
• Monitor applications in real-time
• Adapt to changes seamlessly

It ensures that development and operations work in sync, minimizing downtime and improving the reliability of cloud-based systems.

Here are the key components of DevOps in cloud computing that you should know. 

Here are a few tips on how you can sharpen your DevOps skills.

• Learn DevOps Tools: Explore tools like Jenkins, Kubernetes, Docker, and Terraform to manage CI/CD pipelines and cloud infrastructure.
• Master Automation: Understand scripting and automation to streamline repetitive tasks.
• Gain Real-World Experience: Work on cloud-computing projects where you can practice deploying applications and monitoring performance.

You can also enroll in upGrad’s Professional Certificate Program in Cloud Computing and DevOps. Learn through 50+ real-world case studies and explore 100+ cloud services.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most innovative and recent prerequisites for cloud computing. It is transforming cloud computing by enabling smarter, more efficient solutions. 

From automating repetitive tasks to deriving insights from vast amounts of data, AI enhances the capabilities of cloud platforms, making it an indispensable skill for cloud professionals.

Why Is Artificial Intelligence Essential?

AI in cloud computing empowers organizations to analyze data at scale, automate processes, and deliver personalized user experiences. Cloud providers like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud offer AI and machine learning tools to help businesses build intelligent applications without extensive infrastructure.

Here’s a look at the key components of AI in cloud computing that you must aim to master, too. 

Build your AI skills in cloud computing by taking up upGrad’s advanced courses on Artificial Intelligence. Learn all there is to know about ML, NLP, and Computer Vision and full-proof your career.

Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)

Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) are one of the most critical prerequisites of cloud computing. APIs facilitate seamless integration between cloud services, making them a fundamental skill for anyone working in the cloud.

Why Are APIs Essential?

APIs allow cloud applications to interact with services and data efficiently, whether for retrieving information, integrating third-party tools, or managing workflows. They are crucial for enabling automation and scalability in cloud environments.

Explore the key API concepts in cloud computing below. 

Want to get better at creating APIs? Here are a few tips that’ll help. 

• Learn API Standards: Study REST and GraphQL to understand their principles and applications.
• Experiment with API Tools: Practice using tools like Postman for testing APIs or Swagger for designing them.

Database Management

Database management is a core skill in cloud computing, enabling the organization, storage, and retrieval of data in a cloud environment. 

Why Is Database Management Essential?

Cloud databases support critical business operations, from managing customer records to running analytics. Understanding database structures and querying languages ensures that you can design efficient data systems and troubleshoot issues effectively.

Have a look at the key aspects of database management in cloud computing. 

Want to get better at database management? Here are some tips that will definitely help you. 

• Learn Query Languages: Start with SQL to manage relational databases, then explore NoSQL for unstructured data.
• Experiment with Cloud Databases: Use tools like Amazon DynamoDB, Google Cloud Spanner, or Azure Cosmos DB.
• Understand Performance Optimization: Learn indexing, caching, and sharding techniques to enhance database efficiency.

You can also check out upGrad’s tutorial to explore the differences between SQL and NoSQL databases to make your basics even stronger. 

Does Cloud Computing Require Coding?

The answer depends on the role you choose in cloud computing. 

• Some positions, like Cloud Developer or DevOps Engineer, require extensive coding skills.
• Others, like Cloud Administrators or Cloud Security Analysts, may rely more on understanding tools, configurations, and security protocols.

If you’re new to coding, don’t worry — many cloud roles focus on mastering the cloud environment and its tools rather than deep programming knowledge. 

However, learning basic programming can give you an edge, as coding is crucial for automation, application development, and optimizing cloud workflows.

Here’s a tabulated snapshot of top career roles and how much they pay when you ace your coding skills to the next level. 

Source(s): Glassdoor, Talent.com

*Please Note: The average annual global salaries can vary based on the real time currency conversion charges. 

What Are the Tools and Technologies Required in Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing relies on a diverse range of tools and technologies that cater to both technical and non-technical aspects of the field. 

Here’s a breakdown of coding and non-coding tools, along with examples of popular platforms used in cloud environments.

Coding Tools

Coding tools are essential for tasks like application development, automation, and managing infrastructure. 

These tools – tabulated below – allow cloud professionals to write, debug, and optimize code for cloud environments.

Non-Coding Tools

Non-coding tools – tabulated below – focus on managing, monitoring, and securing cloud environments. They are ideal for roles like cloud administration, security, and operations.

Popular Cloud Platforms

Here are some platforms that provide a comprehensive suite of tools for developing, deploying, and managing cloud applications.

• Amazon Web Services (AWS): Known for its wide range of services, including computing, storage, and AI tools.
• Microsoft Azure: Offers seamless integration with Microsoft products and enterprise-grade solutions.
• Google Cloud Platform (GCP): Excels in data analytics, machine learning, and scalable storage.

Whether you’re coding scripts or managing configurations, these tools and platforms form the foundation of a successful career in cloud computing.

How to Learn Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing is a rapidly evolving field with immense career opportunities, making it essential to approach learning in a structured way. Whether you're aiming to become a cloud developer, architect, or administrator, understanding the foundations and building your expertise step by step can set you on the right path.

Here’s a breakdown of steps that will help you learn cloud computing easily. 

1. Understand the Prerequisites: Start with the basics like programming languages (Python, Java), networking fundamentals, and virtualization. These are the building blocks that simplify advanced concepts.

2. Enroll in Cloud Computing Courses: Opt for beginner-friendly courses to get hands-on experience with cloud platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. 

Here are some popular choices.

• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
• Azure Fundamentals Certification
• Google Associate Cloud Engineer

3. Consider PG Certifications in Cloud Computing: For in-depth knowledge and career advancement, pursue Postgraduate (PG) certifications. 

Here's what such programs often cover.

• Advanced cloud concepts like DevOps, AI integration, and multi-cloud strategies.
• Practical projects to apply your skills.
• Career mentorship and job placement support.

4. Practice with Free-Tier Cloud Services: Utilize free-tier access from AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud to experiment with real-world scenarios.

5. Engage in Projects: Work on personal or guided projects, like setting up virtual machines, deploying web apps, or creating cloud-based databases.

6. Join Communities and Forums: Stay updated on industry trends by participating in cloud computing communities like Reddit, GitHub, or LinkedIn groups.

How Can upGrad Help You Build a Career?

upGrad offers a range of courses and certifications to help you build expertise in coding, programming, and cloud computing. These programs are designed for individuals at all levels, from beginners to professionals, and focus on real-world applications and career advancement.

Here are some Coding and Programming Courses you can enroll in today.

• Master of Design in User Experience Degree Course (12 months) – Starts from December 31, 2024.
• Professional Certificate Program in UI/UX Design & Design Thinking (3 months) – Admissions on the roll.

Here are some Executive Certificates and Bootcamps by upGrad.

• Professional Certificate Program in Cloud Computing and DevOps (8 months) – Starting from January 1, 2025.
• Full Stack Development Bootcamp (36 weeks): Admissions on the roll.
• Cloud Engineer Bootcamp (6.5 months) – Admissions on the roll.
• Python Programming Bootcamp (8 weeks): Starts on December 25, 2024.

Unsure which course justifies your skills the best? Confused about which career direction you should choose? Fret not – book a free career counseling call with upGrad and get all your doubts resolved by experts. 

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