Cloud technology powers today’s enterprises and businesses. Cloud computing is, without a doubt, one of the most innovative and transformational technological advances of the twenty-first century. In layman’s terms, cloud computing refers to the distribution of computer services such as data storage, processing power, servers, databases, networking, software, analytics, and so on via the internet or ‘the cloud.’ The word “cloud” was coined because these services are accessed via a virtual area or the internet. Simply put, when anything is considered to be in the cloud, it means that it is being saved online rather than on your computer.
The ease of scaling, diversity of services offered, reduced costs, safety, and convenience that cloud technology provides for storing massive volumes of data were key reasons for the global adoption of cloud technology by organizations and corporations. Furthermore, the worldwide expansion of data, increasing internet access, digitization of technology, and pandemic-driven remote working have expanded the popularity and accelerated use of cloud technology. According to Gartner, cloud computing will be mainstream by 2025, driving not just technological but also corporate innovation. According to projections, the worldwide value of cloud computing will rise from US$ 678.8 billion in 2023 to US$ 4.4 trillion in 2033, rising at a 20.5% CAGR.
Therefore, it can be unequivocally said that cloud computing skills are one of the most coveted skills in the tech world, and professionals with cloud skills are an asset to any organization. So, if you are thinking about earning a cloud computing certification, don’t think about it; just go ahead and do it. Getting a cloud computing certification is unquestionably the best way to help you scale new heights in the cloud domain as well as serve as a launchpad for catapulting your journey into success and landing lucrative opportunities.
Let us now look at what cloud computing certifications entail and why obtaining one might be a game changer in your professional quest to become a cloud expert.
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What are cloud certifications?
Cloud certifications provide a testament to an individual’s ability to use cloud technology to execute specified tasks dictated by their designated employment role. The certificates evaluate a candidate’s knowledge, abilities, and competence using a grueling set of procedures that adhere to industry standards. Companies can build a team of highly skilled professionals who are on par with one another on the cloud glossary, well-versed in the latest cloud technology trends, and are knowledgeable about various aspects of cloud technology and the required skillsets by hiring cloud-certified professionals.
The top cloud computing credentials you can consider
The holy trinity of cloud computing service providers, primarily Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure offer certifications that confirm an individual’s degree of proficiency and expertise in cloud abilities, ranging from fundamental to advanced level certifications.
You can select the certification based on your specific professional needs as well as the cloud technology of the cloud service provider with which you will be working. The following are the most prominent cloud computing certifications that you can pursue:
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
- AWS Certified Developer Associate
- CompTIA Cloud+ Certification
- Microsoft Certified: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- Cisco CCNA Cloud
- Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect Expert
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
- Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
- Google Cloud Certified – Professional Cloud Architect
- Google Associate Cloud Engineer
What are the benefits of a cloud certification?
Let’s now talk about the primary benefits of pursuing a cloud certification:
1. Authenticity and reliability
A cloud certification is the most effective approach to confirm your cloud skills and potential while standing out from the crowd. These credentials act as a gauge of globally accepted industry standards, assessing your skills and knowledge. As a result, acquiring a cloud certification boosts the legitimacy of your CV and raises the appeal of your profile to employers. According to prominent employment sites, in addition to your skills and experience, a well-accredited certification is one of the variables that boosts your chances of finding a good job. It also clears more space on the field, allowing you to capitalize on additional possibilities.
2. Higher earning potential
One of the most in-demand talents today is cloud knowledge, yet the tech industry is severely lacking in talented and seasoned cloud specialists. Not just Fortune 500 corporations but also several startups and small businesses are interested in employing people who have experience with any one of the three cloud service providers, namely Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud, depending on whose cloud services they are using. Because there is a big supply-demand imbalance for qualified cloud computing experts, gaining a cloud certification not only boosts your chances of being discovered by recruiters but also helps you earn greater pay potential.
3. Job security
Cloud computing is a highly advancing field. While the earlier focus was on providing data storage facility, the focus currently is on providing software as a service platform more so than others especially post-pandemic with remote working, online food services, e-commerce, and the proliferation of various OTT platforms like Netflix. Therefore, as cloud technology is constantly evolving, it is always best to stay updated on the new reforms and latest practices by getting certified in the cloud. Azure certifications, especially, are based on job-role specifications. A cloud certification increases job security and also provides much-needed stability in your cloud career. With the latest cloud computing skills in your resume, you can easily land a job that is not influenced by the volatility of the market.
4. Get noticed by recruiters
Due to the fact that it acts as confirmation of your real cloud expertise, a cloud certification on your CV boosts your chances of being recognized by recruiters. Furthermore, there are certificates available based on your technical aptitude, ranging from fundamental to advanced level to specialized jobs, which account for your competence as well as your dedication to continual learning and remaining up to speed on the latest skills and technology. Cloud certification is a key factor for many international corporations.
5. Cloud is the future
The discipline of cloud computing has made significant developments during the past ten years. It has become a crucial component of many firms’ IT infrastructures around the world. Cloud technology has completely transformed the way businesses operate, with big multinational corporations to small businesses shifting their operations to cloud platforms, and there has been a significant shift in reliance on cloud platforms for hosting and implementing essential software applications. Many firms are now utilizing Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure services, emphasizing the significance of professional cloud experts in this industry. As the cloud expands, there will be an increasing number of career possibilities for cloud computing specialists all around the world. So, whether you are a newcomer looking to break into the cloud domain or an experienced professional looking to advance your career by upskilling, having a cloud certification in your name can open doors to a plethora of opportunities and assist you in reaching your full potential in your respective area of service.
