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

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

Updated on 02 December, 2024

28.5K+ views

• 21 min read

Table of Contents

What are the Prerequisites for Cloud Computing?
Does Cloud Computing Require Coding?
What Are the Tools and Technologies Required in Cloud Computing?
How to Learn Cloud Computing?
How Can upGrad Help You Build a Career?

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.

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.

Skills Required For Cloud Computing	Description	Real-Life Use Cases
Networking Skills	Understanding how networks connect devices and systems, including IP addresses, firewalls, and DNS.	Setting up virtual private networks (VPNs) for remote teams. Optimizing cloud traffic flow in retail apps.
Database Skills	Managing data stored in cloud databases, including relational (SQL) and non-relational databases.	Using Amazon RDS for real-time inventory management in e-commerce. Running analytics on customer data with Google BigQuery.
Programming Skills	Writing scripts and software to automate tasks or create cloud-native applications.	Developing serverless applications on AWS Lambda. Building APIs for fintech apps using Python.
Linux Skills	Mastering this open-source operating system commonly used for cloud deployments and automation.	Hosting secure websites with Apache servers on Linux. Running scalable apps in a Kubernetes environment.
Cloud Security Skills	Protecting data and applications on cloud platforms from cyber threats and breaches.	Encrypting sensitive health records in compliance with HIPAA. Implementing multi-factor authentication for financial services.
DevOps Skills	Combining development and operations for faster, more reliable software delivery.	Automating deployment pipelines for apps using Jenkins. Monitoring cloud app performance with Prometheus.
Security Skills	Understanding cybersecurity basics to secure infrastructure and prevent unauthorized access.	Conducting penetration tests to identify vulnerabilities. Configuring firewalls to secure SaaS applications.
Virtualization Skills	Creating virtual environments to run multiple systems on a single hardware unit.	Setting up virtual servers for app testing. Consolidating workloads to reduce hardware costs in startups.

Also Read: What Are the Skills to Become a Cloud Engineer?

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.

Language	Purpose	Real-Life Example
Python	Known for simplicity and versatility. Widely used for automation and scripting.	Automating AWS infrastructure using Boto3.
Java	Ideal for building scalable, high-performance enterprise applications.	Developing microservices with Spring Boot for cloud environments.
PHP	Popular for web application development and backend scripting.	Building cloud-based CMS platforms like WordPress.
C++	Used for applications requiring high performance, like gaming or simulations.	Developing tools for real-time analytics.
Ruby	Preferred for rapid development of web applications.	Creating e-commerce platforms using Ruby on Rails.

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.

Aspect	Description	Real-Life Example
Data Encryption	Protecting sensitive data by encoding it so only authorized users can access it.	Using SSL/TLS for secure e-commerce transactions.
Access Control	Managing who can access cloud resources using tools like Identity and Access Management (IAM).	Implementing multi-factor authentication for cloud apps.
Disaster Recovery	Strategies to restore operations quickly after disruptions like server outages or cyberattacks.	Using automated backups on Google Cloud to restore operations after accidental data deletion.
Threat Detection	Identifying and mitigating risks using advanced monitoring and alerting systems.	Monitoring network traffic for anomalies in a financial services app.
Compliance	Adhering to data protection regulations, like GDPR or HIPAA, to ensure legal compliance.	Implementing HIPAA-compliant security for patient data in cloud environments.

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.

Aspect	Description	Real-Life Example
IP Addressing	Assigning unique addresses to devices for communication within a network.	Configuring IP addresses for virtual machines on AWS EC2.
Firewalls	Establishing security rules to control traffic entering and leaving a network.	Setting up virtual firewalls on Google Cloud to block unauthorized access.
Load Balancing	Distributing network traffic evenly across servers to ensure reliability and performance.	Implementing AWS Elastic Load Balancing to handle peak traffic for an e-commerce site.
Virtual Private Network (VPN)	Creating secure connections between private networks over the internet.	Setting up a VPN gateway for remote teams to access corporate data securely.
DNS (Domain Name System)	Translating domain names into IP addresses to route user requests efficiently.	Configuring custom domain names for cloud applications on AWS Route 53.

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.

Aspect	Description	Real-Life Example
Virtual Machines (VMs)	Software-based simulations of physical computers that run an operating system and applications.	Running multiple virtual servers on a single AWS EC2 instance.
Hypervisors	Software that manages virtual machines, allocating resources like CPU, memory, and storage.	Using VMware ESXi to deploy virtualized infrastructure in enterprises.
Storage Virtualization	Pooling physical storage from multiple devices into a single virtual storage unit.	Creating virtual storage systems with Azure Storage.
Network Virtualization	Combining multiple physical networks into a single virtual network for better resource allocation.	Setting up virtual networks with Azure Virtual Network for hybrid cloud solutions.
Containerization	Packaging applications and their dependencies into isolated units for portability and efficiency.	Running microservices in isolated containers for better scalability.

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.

Operating System	Description	Real-Life Example
Linux	Open-source, highly customizable OS. Widely used for cloud deployments due to its flexibility and cost-effectiveness.	Running Kubernetes clusters for microservices in Google Cloud.
Windows Server	Microsoft’s OS designed for enterprise applications and cloud environments.	Deploying .NET applications in Azure Virtual Machines.
macOS	Apple’s proprietary OS, used in niche scenarios like application development for Apple platforms.	Developing iOS apps on macOS environments hosted in the cloud.

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.

Aspect	Description	Real-Life Example
Iterative Development	Building applications in small, incremental cycles rather than one large phase.	Adding features to a cloud-based CRM in sprints.
Collaboration	Encouraging teamwork between cross-functional teams, including developers, testers, and clients.	Developers and clients working together to refine features in SaaS platforms.
Continuous Integration and Deployment (CI/CD)	Automating code testing and deployment for faster releases.	Deploying new features in real-time on Azure DevOps.

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.

Platform	Description	Real-Life Example
Amazon Web Services (AWS)	Offers a wide range of tools for computing, storage, and databases, along with scalability and flexibility.	Running AI models on AWS SageMaker for predictive analytics.
Microsoft Azure	Provides enterprise-focused solutions, seamlessly integrating with Microsoft products.	Deploying machine learning models using Azure ML Studio.
Google Cloud Platform (GCP)	Known for its data and AI capabilities, GCP specializes in analytics and scalable storage.	Running data analytics pipelines using BigQuery.

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.

Cloud Type	Description
Public Cloud	Resources are shared among multiple users and managed by third-party providers, offering cost-effective scalability.
Private Cloud	Dedicated to a single organization, offering enhanced security and control over data and infrastructure.
Hybrid Cloud	Combines public and private cloud features, allowing data and applications to move between environments.

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

Cloud Type	Advantages	Disadvantages
Public Cloud	Cost-effective with pay-as-you-go pricing. Scalable to handle varying workloads. Minimal maintenance for users.	Less control over data and infrastructure. Shared resources may pose security concerns. Potential latency issues.
Private Cloud	High level of data security and control. Customizable to meet specific business needs. Suitable for compliance-heavy industries.	High upfront and maintenance costs. Limited scalability compared to public cloud. Requires dedicated IT expertise.
Hybrid Cloud	Balances scalability with security. Flexibility to move workloads between private and public environments. Optimized for disaster recovery.	Complex setup and management. Potential compatibility issues between cloud environments. Higher costs compared to a single cloud type.

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.

Component	Description	Real-world Example
Continuous Integration (CI)	Automatically merging code changes from multiple developers into a shared repository for testing.	Automating build pipelines with Azure DevOps.
Continuous Deployment (CD)	Delivering updates to production environments automatically after passing tests.	Rolling out updates to a mobile app hosted on Google Cloud.
Infrastructure as Code (IaC)	Managing cloud infrastructure using code to automate provisioning and configuration.	Using Terraform to define and deploy AWS resources.
Monitoring and Logging	Tracking performance and identifying issues using monitoring tools.	Monitoring app health with AWS CloudWatch.

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.

Aspect	Description	Real-world Example
Machine Learning (ML)	Enabling systems to learn from data and improve predictions without explicit programming.	Using Amazon SageMaker to train ML models for predictive analytics.
Natural Language Processing (NLP)	Helping machines understand and process human language for tasks like chatbots and sentiment analysis.	Building conversational AI chatbots with Azure Cognitive Services.
Computer Vision	Enabling systems to interpret visual data for tasks like object detection and image analysis.	Using AWS Rekognition to identify objects in images for retail inventory management.
AI-Powered Automation	Using AI to automate workflows and improve operational efficiency.	Automating customer support with AI chatbots on Microsoft Azure.

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.

Aspect

Description

Real-world Example

REST APIs

Representational State Transfer APIs enable communication over HTTP, widely used in cloud services.

Fetching data from cloud storage using AWS API Gateway.

GraphQL

An alternative to REST APIs, offering more flexibility by allowing clients to request specific data.

Building interactive dashboards with tailored data from Google Cloud.

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.

Aspect	Description	Real-world Example
Relational Databases	Use structured tables to store and manage data, typically queried with SQL.	Analyzing sales data with Azure SQL Database.
NoSQL Databases	Offer flexible schemas for storing unstructured or semi-structured data.	Storing real-time user activity logs with MongoDB on AWS.
Data Warehousing	Centralized storage optimized for analytics and reporting.	Running big data analytics with Google BigQuery.

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.

Job Role	Average Annual Salary In India	*Average Annual Global Salary
Cloud Architect	INR 20L	USA: INR 84.4L UK: INR 86.6L Australia: INR 1.34Cr Canada: INR 1Cr Germany: INR 66.8L
Cloud Engineer	INR 7L	USA: INR 84.4L UK: INR 55.6L Australia: INR 54.8L Canada: INR 53L Germany: INR 57L
Cloud Developer	INR 12L	USA: INR 1.1Cr UK: INR 49L Australia: INR 1.12Cr Canada: INR 1.2Cr Germany: INR 53L
DevOps Engineer	INR 8L	USA: INR 84.4L UK: INR 57.8L Australia: INR 54.8L Canada: INR 55.4L Germany: INR 55.2L

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.

Tool	Purpose	Examples
Programming IDEs	Provide environments for writing and debugging code.	Visual Studio Code, IntelliJ IDEA, PyCharm
Version Control	Tracks changes in code and manages collaboration among developers.	Git, GitHub, Bitbucket
Automation Scripts	Used for automating repetitive tasks like deployments and infrastructure management.	Python, Shell Scripting, PowerShell
CI/CD Tools	Automate code testing, building, and deployment pipelines.	Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD, Azure DevOps
Containerization	Packages applications and dependencies into containers for portability.	Docker, Kubernetes

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.

Tool	Purpose	Examples
Cloud Management Platforms	Help manage and monitor cloud resources and performance.	AWS Management Console, Azure Portal, Google Cloud Console
Security Tools	Ensure the security of cloud infrastructure and applications.	AWS IAM, Azure Security Center, Google Cloud Identity
Automation Scripts	Used for automating repetitive tasks like deployments and infrastructure management.	Python, Shell Scripting, PowerShell
Monitoring Tools	Track performance and uptime of applications and infrastructure.	AWS CloudWatch, New Relic, Datadog
Backup & Recovery Tools	Provide data protection and disaster recovery capabilities.	Veeam Backup for AWS, Azure Backup, Google Cloud Storage

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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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the basic requirements for cloud computing?

The basic requirements include a foundational understanding of programming (e.g., Python, Java), networking, virtualization, database management, and operating systems like Linux. These skills provide the technical base for advanced cloud concepts.

2. Is SQL required for cloud computing?

SQL is crucial for managing relational databases in the cloud, enabling tasks like data storage, retrieval, and analysis in platforms like AWS RDS or Google Cloud BigQuery.

3. Can beginners learn cloud computing?

Yes, beginners can start with foundational skills such as programming, networking, and operating systems, and progress through beginner-friendly certifications like AWS Cloud Practitioner or Azure Fundamentals.

4. Do I need Python for cloud computing?

Python is highly recommended for its simplicity and utility in automating cloud tasks, managing infrastructure, and developing cloud-native applications.

5. Which cloud is in demand?

AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are the most in-demand platforms, with AWS leading the market due to its wide range of services and global adoption.

6. Does cloud computing pay well?

Yes, cloud computing offers lucrative salaries. Here’s what you can earn in India on average in some key roles.

Cloud Architect: INR 20L/ year
Cloud Developer: INR 12L/ pear
DevOps Engineer: INR 8L/ year
Cloud Engineer: INR 7L/ year

7. Can I learn AWS without coding?

Yes, many AWS roles focus on managing cloud services and infrastructure, but coding is advantageous for automating tasks and developing applications.

8. Which language is best for cloud?

Python is widely regarded as the best language for cloud computing due to its simplicity, versatility, and robust cloud-related libraries.

Here are some other important programming languages for cloud computing:

Java
PHP
C++
Ruby

9. Which stream is required for cloud computing?

No specific stream is mandatory, but a background in computer science, IT, or engineering can be helpful. Key skills like programming and networking are what matter most.

10. Is cloud computing a good career?

Yes, cloud computing is an excellent career choice with high demand across industries. Roles like Cloud Architect or DevOps Engineers offer lucrative salaries, and platforms like AWS and Azure dominate the tech sector, ensuring long-term growth and opportunities.

11. Can I learn cloud in 3 months?

Yes, you can learn the basics of cloud computing in 3 months by focusing on foundational skills like Python, networking, and cloud basics. Completing beginner certifications like AWS Cloud Practitioner or Azure Fundamentals can help. Mastery will require ongoing practice and learning.

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