What do you understand by the term ‘Cloud’? Google Drive and iCloud? Yes. Cloud is basically an intangible storage where you can upload, store, and manage data. Since COVID-19, the world has adopted to cloud storage and services massively. Now that you’re asking ‘how to start a career in cloud computing’, let me present some numbers.
In 2021, the cloud computing industry market cap was USD 370 billion. Moreover, it is believed to grow at a steady CAGR of 15.7% till 2030. As a result, the world is constantly seeking cloud computing experts at a high price.
Now that you know this market is growing and has endless job opportunities, all you need to know is how to enter in cloud computing. But first, let’s understand Cloud computing in a more detailed manner.
What is Cloud Computing
Cloud computing, in plain terms, is like having a virtual storage of computer resources at your fingertips, and you don’t need to worry about any sort of hardware storage. Think of it as renting a super-smart computer over the internet.
In the traditional way, companies used to run their own servers and data centers. Cloud computing changed the game. We, the consumers, know cloud mostly as GDrive or iCloud, but it has much more to it. Especially for businesses and companies.
Now, you can store data, run applications, and do a whole bunch of techy things without owning any physical hardware. Everything happens online.
The big deal here? It’s super flexible. You can scale up or down your computing needs as easily as turning a knob. Plus, you can access your work or play from anywhere, anytime, as long as you’ve got an internet connection. So, cloud computing isn’t just about tech efficiency; it’s about freedom and innovation.
Before you plan your career in Cloud Computing, I suggest you read this article: Why Career Planning Is Important
Why Pursue a Career in Cloud Computing?
Alright, before talking about how to start a career in cloud computing, let’s talk about why you’d want to get into a cloud computing career.
First off, there’s a big, bright “Help Wanted” sign hanging over the cloud industry. As more and more businesses switch to the cloud, they need smart talents who can make it happen. That means endless job openings.
But it’s not just about landing a job. Cloud tech keeps changing, and that’s where you come in. You can keep learning and growing, and that means you can keep moving up the career ladder. As a techie, you’ll have to keep learning and upskilling. I hope you know that!
Oh, and the paycheck? Well, cloud pros tend to earn a pretty penny. The better your skills, the fatter the paycheck. According to Indeed, the average base salary of Cloud Engineers in the US is $123,000.
In a nutshell, a cloud computing career isn’t just about a job; it’s about a chance to be on the tech frontier, do cool stuff, and get paid well for it. If you’re tech-inclined and like the sound of that, cloud computing could be your ticket to a fulfilling career.
Skills Required to Start a Career in Cloud Computing
Starting a career in cloud computing may seem scary. At least it was for me! But it’s entirely achievable with the right skill set. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the essential skills and knowledge areas you’ll need:
Step 1: Understanding Cloud Fundamentals
Begin your journey by understanding the fundamental concepts of cloud computing. The building blocks:
- Cloud Service Models: Understand the differences between Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). These models define how cloud services are delivered and used.
- Deployment Models: Learn about public, private, hybrid, and multi-cloud deployments. Each has its advantages and use cases.
Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with Cloud Platforms
Major cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are your tools in the cloud computing world. Start with one platform, and expand from there. Key skills include:
- Navigating Cloud Consoles: Get comfortable using the web-based consoles provided by cloud platforms. This is where you’ll manage and deploy resources.
- Cloud Services: Dive into the vast array of services each platform offers. Explore computing, storage, databases, networking, and machine learning services, among others.
Step 3: Mastering Networking Basics
Networking is the backbone of cloud computing. Understanding how data flows in the cloud is crucial:
- IP Addresses: Learn about IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, subnetting, and CIDR notation. These concepts help you manage IP resources effectively.
- Virtual Networks: Understand virtual networks in the cloud, including VPC (Virtual Private Cloud) in AWS, VNet in Azure, and VPC in Google Cloud.
- Security Groups and Firewall Rules: Know how to configure security groups (AWS), network security groups (Azure), and firewall rules (Google Cloud) to control network traffic.
Step 4: Exploring Operating Systems
A strong grasp of operating systems is essential, as cloud environments often rely on them:
- Linux and Windows: Familiarize yourself with both Linux and Windows operating systems, as they are commonly used in cloud instances.
- Command Line: Learn basic command-line operations for both Linux and Windows, as you’ll frequently use the command line to manage cloud resources.
Step 5: Scripting and Automation
To harness the full power of the cloud, scripting, and automation are key:
- Python: Start with Python, a versatile language commonly used for scripting and automation in cloud environments. NOTE: Don’t start debating Python vs. JavaScript over Twitter
- Automation Tools: Explore tools like AWS CLI, Azure PowerShell, and Google Cloud SDK to automate cloud resource provisioning and management.
Step 6: Cloud Security
Security is of the utmost importance in cloud computing. Equip yourself with the knowledge to security in cloud environments and you’ll have one of the highest-paid careers in the tech industry:
- Encryption: Understand encryption concepts and practices, including data at rest and in transit encryption.
- Identity and Access Management (IAM): Learn how to manage user identities and permissions within cloud platforms.
- Best Practices: Stay updated on cloud security best practices to protect data and prevent breaches.
Although this is not all and obviously you don’t need to master all these. Your journey in cloud computing mostly depends on the role you’re targeting. Yes, there are many job roles within the cloud world. Let’s talk about a few:
Top Career Options in Cloud Computing
Now, let’s talk about some of the most popular cloud computing career paths:
1. Cloud Architect
Role: Cloud architects are the strategic planners. They design and oversee cloud solutions, ensuring they align with an organization’s needs. They focus on security, scalability, and selecting the right cloud services.
Skills: Deep knowledge of cloud platforms, technical proficiency, security awareness, architecture design, and strong communication skills.
2. Cloud Developer
Role: Cloud developers are builders. They create applications and software that run in the cloud. Their work involves coding, debugging, and integrating cloud services into applications.
Skills: Proficiency in programming languages, cloud service knowledge, containerization, CI/CD expertise, and strong problem-solving abilities.
3. Cloud Security Specialist
Role: Cloud security specialists protect cloud infrastructure and data from cyber threats. They ensure compliance with regulations and enforce security policies.
Skills: Expertise in cloud security, compliance knowledge, familiarity with security tools, incident response capabilities, and effective communication skills.
4. Cloud DevOps Engineer
Role: Cloud DevOps engineers streamline development and deployment. They focus on automation, collaboration, and maintaining an efficient deployment pipeline.
Skills: Scripting and coding skills, CI/CD tool expertise, containerization and orchestration knowledge, Infrastructure as Code (IaC) familiarity, and strong collaboration skills.
5. Cloud Support Engineer
Role: Cloud support engineers troubleshoot and resolve technical issues in the cloud environment. They provide technical support and ensure cloud services run smoothly.
Skills: Technical troubleshooting abilities, cloud platform knowledge, excellent communication and customer service skills, and adaptability to new technologies.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! A guide on why and how to start a career in cloud computing. So far, we’ve established that cloud computing is a field bursting with opportunities and excitement. It offers handsome salaries to skilled developers and will keep growing at 15% CAGR till 2030.
As you consider your path, keep in mind that cloud computing isn’t just a buzzword. It is going to stay as cloud storage and infrastructure is the future. Whether you’re drawn to architecting, coding, securing, automating, or troubleshooting, there’s a role that suits your interests and skills in cloud computing.
So, don’t hesitate. Take chances, learn about cloud computing, and if it suits you: go for it! Remember, more than the scope and money, it is your own interest and skill. Never forget that.
Stay FuelEd.
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