Cloud computing is a superior alternative to traditional technology in many areas relevant to various aspects of Information Technology (IT). Its functions differ based on how it provides associated solutions through the web to data storage. This article explores cloud computing, how it works, and the various roles you can begin building a career within the field.
What Is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is an application-based software infrastructure that stores data on remote servers. It is a computing system that allows you to rent IT services instead of owning, buying, or monopolizing them. Today, many companies find it more efficient to access their data via the Internet or the cloud.
For most organizations, investing considerable funds in databases, software, and hardware is not cost-effective, hence the increased reliance on cloud computing services. While some cloud services are free or cheap, others may be pricier, depending on the usage and features. These services include databases, business intelligence, storage, servers, and software.
Building and maintaining cloud computing tools and services are complex, and there are many roles that IT professionals play in the sector. Here are some of the most well-known ones:
1. Cloud Architect
Cloud architecture deals with the technical components you need to build a cloud. Working as a cloud architect allows you to create cloud infrastructure from scratch, one of the most exciting things most cloud professionals can do.
The basic components of cloud architecture include a frontend platform involving a client or device used to access the cloud and a backend platform encompassing servers and storage devices. Additionally, you'll need to build a cloud-based delivery model involving IaaS and PaaS and a network privately or publicly hosting an organization's resources. Glassdoor estimates the average annual salary of a Cloud Architect to be $194,635.
2. Development Operations Engineer
A development operations engineer (DevOps engineer) is an IT professional who employs various tools, environments, and best practices to support software development and operations. Venturing into the field of DevOps engineering is a great way to break into the cloud computing sector, as your skills are valuable in building and managing cloud infrastructure. You will often work with cloud engineers and cloud architects to achieve these. Glassdoor estimates $99,574 to be the average annual salary of a Development Operations Engineer.
3. Cloud Security Analyst
A cloud security analyst is one of the most important professionals in the cloud computing industry. The role involves securing servers and networks and protecting other digital assets and information from cyberattacks.
You should note that the "Zero-Trust Philosophy" is the foundation that guides the cloud security of any business enterprise. Anything can go wrong. So, a cloud security analyst takes no chances and constantly monitors the cloud environment, conducts security risk assessments, and evaluates security services and technologies. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary of a cloud security analyst is $91,719.
4. System Engineer
A system engineer typically manages server backup, recovery, monitoring, and capacity planning. Also, this role involves developing system security standards and performing system upgrades. These processes are essential in cloud computing processes, and systems engineers are integral to maintaining the smooth operations of cloud services. Glassdoor's salary statistics show that the average annual salary of a system engineer is $88,702.
5. Cloud Engineer
A cloud engineer builds, develops, and manages cloud services, including Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS).
Other responsibilities professionals in this role handle include migrating computer systems to the cloud and creating applications and databases that perform on the cloud. Glassdoor estimates the average annual salary of a Cloud Engineer to be $151,595. Check out our guide if you want to learn how to become a cloud engineer.
6. Backend Developer
Backend developers are software engineers who build the algorithms used in running websites. These professionals often work on a system's "cloud" section and utilize Back-end as a Service (BaaS) for efficiency.
Using BaaS allows a backend developer to save organizations from investing large amounts of capital and time in onsite servers. These developers can easily build scalable websites and applications without worrying about the backend. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary of a backend developer is $79,627.
Explore a Career in Cloud Computing
Many companies today rely on cloud-based computing services for their business and data storage needs, increasing the demand for cloud computing professionals.
Consequently, learning more about any of the roles described above is an intelligent decision if you are interested in building a career in cloud computing. You may also want to explore edge computing, another computing field that is growing in popularity.