What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is a technology that revolutionizes the way users access and utilize computing resources, including servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence. It operates over the internet, commonly referred to as “the cloud,” eliminating the need for physical hardware or local server infrastructure. For students aspiring to delve into this dynamic field, obtaining cloud computing certifications for students becomes a valuable pursuit. These certifications provide a structured pathway for students to enhance their understanding of on-demand self-service, extensive network access, resource pooling, quick adaptability, and measurable service – the fundamental features that define cloud computing. By engaging in cloud computing certifications tailored for students, individuals not only gain theoretical knowledge but also acquire practical skills, setting a solid foundation for future endeavors in this rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Why is there a demand for Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is vital for cost-effectiveness, scalability, accessibility, and resource optimization. It increases speed and agility, encouraging innovation and experimentation with developing technologies. Cloud services provide dependability, automated upgrades, and strong security features. Data backup, recovery, and environmental sustainability all add to its attractiveness. With a worldwide reach, cloud computing is critical for enterprises, giving a strategic edge by enabling remote work, lowering infrastructure costs, and assuring efficient and secure IT operations in a changing business landscape.
Why pursue cloud computing certifications for students?
Earning a cloud computing certificate as a high school or undergraduate student can bring several benefits and provide the groundwork for a successful future career in information technology. Here is how a cloud computing certification might benefit students.
Obtaining cloud computing certifications for students enables you to build important technological abilities early in your academic career. This hands-on experience can help you stand out as you proceed through your school and career. Cloud computing is a large industry with several employment opportunities. Earning a certificate exposes you to numerous facets of cloud technology, allowing you to pursue specific areas of interest within the larger IT environment. Cloud computing certifications for students are often accepted by industry professionals and companies. Completing a respected program enhances the legitimacy of your abilities and expertise, especially at an early level in your schooling.
Cloud computing certifications for students are crucial in a fast-expanding sector, keeping you updated with industry developments. This information may be useful if you seek further education or enter the workforce. Including cloud computing certifications for students on your CV demonstrates your willingness to study and adapt to new technology. It can have a good impact on instructors, internship coordinators, and potential employers.
Popular courses that provide Cloud Computing certifications
First, decide which cloud platform you would like to specialize in. There are currently 4 major cloud platforms available.
- Microsoft Azure
- Amazon Web Services (AWS)
- Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
- IBM Cloud
With this decision, you can then decide which online platforms is suitable to earn a cloud computing certificate.
Microsoft Azure certification
Microsoft Azure certification is a series of professional certifications issued by Microsoft to students who want to demonstrate their abilities and competence in Microsoft Azure cloud services. Azure is Microsoft’s cloud computing platform, which offers a variety of services including virtual machines, databases, AI and machine learning tools, networking solutions, and more. Microsoft provides many Azure certifications that are organized into several role-based pathways. These certificates are intended to appeal to a variety of specializations in the field of cloud computing.
These cloud computing certifications for students comprise of fundamental, associate, expert, and specialist qualifications. Examples include Azure Administrator Associate, Azure Developer Associate, Azure Solutions Architect Expert, and more. These certificates evaluate abilities in areas including as administration, development, security, artificial intelligence, and Internet of Things. Azure certifications can help students enhance their portfolios, whether they are intending to apply for college or jobs upon graduation. Common exam styles include multiple-choice questions, case studies, and hands-on exercises. Microsoft Azure cloud computing certifications for students start from USD99.
Amazon Web Services (AWS)
AWS offers a wide range of training courses that cover fundamental concepts as well as advanced subjects, catering to the needs of developers, architects, and administrators. The program is designed to accommodate people at all phases of their cloud journey, whether they are novices looking for more information or seasoned professionals looking to verify their skills.
AWS Certification is a key component of the program, validating an individual’s knowledge of the AWS cloud. Certifications such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect, AWS Certified Developer, and AWS Certified SysOps Administrator are obtained through rigorous tests that examine practical knowledge and abilities. AWS also provides specialist certifications in areas like as machine learning, security, advanced networking, and big data, catering to individuals with specific skills.
To sign up for AWS training and certification course, you will need an AWS account. For beginners, AWS provides 600+ free digital courses. As of January 2024, the AWS certification training package costs USD$29/month or USD$299/year.
Google Cloud Platform Certification
Google Cloud Platform (GCP) offers a variety of professional certifications to demonstrate expertise in cloud computing and GCP services. Cloud computing certifications include Associate Cloud Engineer for deployment and monitoring, Professional Cloud Architect for cloud solution design, and Professional Data Engineer for data processing system management. Other certificates include network engineering, collaboration, and machine learning. These certificates evaluate practical abilities using examinations that include multiple-choice questions and hands-on assignments. The cost for the Associate Cloud Engineer exam is around USD$125, and the cost for professional-level exams is around USD$200.
IBM Cloud certifications
IBM Cloud certifications offer a wide range of roles and skills, serving as a recognized standard for IBM Cloud ecosystem professionals. IBM cloud computing certifications for students include the certificates for IBM Certified Solution Advisor, IBM Certified Solution Architect, IBM Certified Developer and IBM Certified Administrator. The training resources come at no cost, however an exam to obtain the certifications typically cost around USD$200.
Which cloud computing certifications should students take?
As a student considering cloud computing certifications, your choice between Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and IBM Cloud should be based on your career interests, preferred technologies, and available learning resources.
Microsoft Azure certifications are appropriate if you are interested in working with Microsoft technologies and enterprise solutions, with positions including administrator, developer, and solutions architect. You should also be familiar with Windows-based environments.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) certifications are the market leader with a broad customer base. It is widely used in various sectors and organizations of all sizes. It is appropriate for people seeking a wide range of cloud-related careers and opportunities.
Google Cloud Computing is suitable for anybody interested in Google’s cloud services and technology. It is recognized for its expertise in data analytics, machine learning, and open-source technology and suitable for students interested in data engineering, machine learning, and cloud-native applications.
IBM Cloud certification is suitable for students who are interested in IBM technology and solutions. The prospective positions involve IBM Cloud services, architecture, development, and administration.
When you are exploring which cloud computing certifications for students, you should start with basic classes or free resources for each platform. This technique enables people to assess congruence with their interests and determine which platform appeals to them. Conducting study on possible occupations and sectors is critical for achieving future professional objectives. Understanding which cloud platforms are often utilized in various sectors gives insight and ensures that the certification chosen is appropriate for the student’s planned career path.
Flexibility and variety are critical considerations, particularly for students who are unsure about their chosen career prospects. Starting with a certification from a commonly used platform, such as AWS or Azure, can provide flexibility, opening up chances in a variety of professions within the cloud computing ecosystem. Many cloud providers give free materials and beginning courses, so there are plenty of options for novices to learn.
Next, you may be interested in a case study from one of our computer science students.
