Cloud computing is a game-changing technology that has changed the way we work. IT services are now delivered over the cloud or the internet, making work processes more efficient.

With many companies migrating to the cloud, the demand for cloud computing professionals continues to grow. If you’re a beginner, choose from these free online courses to start your career in cloud computing.

1. Introduction to Cloud Computing (Coursera)

Introduction to Cloud Computing by IBM takes you through the core concepts you need to become a cloud practitioner. You’ll learn about the definition, beginnings, models (IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS), and components of cloud computing. You’ll also understand how businesses apply cloud computing technology and identify the major cloud providers used today.

The lessons are friendly for beginners and don’t require programming knowledge. They cater for diverse learners, from students to cloud engineers. By the end of the course, you’ll be able to create an IBM cloud account and gain experience of cloud services.

2. Intro to Cloud Computing (Udacity)

Are you thinking of becoming a cloud developer? This course is for you if you’re already familiar with networking concepts such as DNS, web servers, and Linux. You’ll learn fundamental concepts such as the advantages of cloud computing and its different models. You’ll also get to compare the well-known cloud services today.

If you’re interested in gaining hands-on experience with Amazon Web Services, explore this course on Udacity. You’ll complete AWS exercises under the guidance of a senior cloud architect. By the end of the five lessons, you should be able to navigate AWS services confidently. You’ll also be able to build a serverless architecture and set up data storage using AWS ElastiCache.

3. Introduction to Mobile and Cloud Computing (Alison)

Wireless services have deeply impacted mobile communication. Today, you can use mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This course discusses how cloud computing has changed the way we communicate through our devices.

You’ll learn about Android, WiMAX, and cloud services like Gmail and Facebook. If you’re interested to learn more about the intersections of cloud technology, software, and hardware, this is the course for you.

4. Cloud Computing Law Specialization (Coursera)

A beginner-friendly course even for those with zero law or IT backgrounds, Cloud Computing Law Specialization brings up legal issues that may arise while transacting over the internet. You’ll understand how European Union rules regulate personal data in the cloud. You’ll critically think about cloud contracts and intellectual property rights. You’ll also learn how the law and tax liabilities can potentially impact cloud customers and providers.

The course gives you a chance to work on real-world case studies. You’ll assess the legal risks of using cloud solutions and help cloud providers and customers comply with regulations. Since cloud computing professionals have to deal with complex issues in cybersecurity, data loss, privacy, and copyright infringement, you’ll find this course helpful for your career.

5. IoT (Internet of Things) Wireless and Cloud Computing Emerging Technologies (Coursera)

IoT is the network of physical objects with sensors that collect and exchange data with each other. These web-enabled smart devices run silently in the background, collecting and sending data to the cloud. For example, you have the best smart pet gadgets and smart home systems you can use to automate your life.

As more IoT devices are created, cloud computing professionals should understand the core IoT technologies and platforms used in product innovation. This course will serve as an introduction to these cloud technologies and platforms. You’ll also take on hands-on projects to help you use an EC2 Virtual Computer in AWS and analyze Bluetooth and wireless networks.

6. Cloud Security Basics (Coursera)

If you’re wondering what cybersecurity certifications you should train for, this is one of the best courses you can take. While the cloud has made life and work more convenient, it also births serious security issues that should worry any company. This course is an introduction to the basic techniques that solve problems in cloud security.

In Cloud Security Basics, you’ll learn about internet server security and analyze the most recent cloud security vulnerabilities. You’ll learn how to secure networks for a private cloud and use cryptography to protect data in remote setups. Practical exercises also complement the lessons to help you understand the concepts you've learned.

7. Cloud Computing With Amazon Web Services (Udemy)

Cloud computing is a broad and complex topic. If you already know the basics, you can zero in on one of the major cloud providers today. According to Duke Learning Innovation, AWS is the most sought-after cloud computing skill in the job market today. There’s also a vast skills gap, with only 14 percent of professionals offering cloud computing skills compared to 44 percent frequency in job postings.

This free tutorial from Udemy is your beginner’s lesson in AWS cloud computing. You’ll learn AWS basics, including creating virtual services in the cloud, bulk email solutions, database solutions, monitoring and notification services, and configuring AWS services in real-time. The lessons are also peppered with practice exercises to help you apply what you have learned.

8. Introduction to the Basics of Azure Services (Simplilearn)

Azure is another in-demand skill in cloud computing. It's one of the best skills to learn if you want to increase your employability. Operated by Microsoft, Azure is a public cloud platform that allows organizations to choose from an extensive collection of services. It’s popular for enterprises that prefer hybrid solutions that sync with legacy apps.

In this free course from SkillUP by Simplilearn, you’ll understand how Azure works. Divided into four topics (one hour total), this course takes you through Azure’s Active Directory, Data Factory, Virtual Machine, and Virtual Network. Start with this foundational course before you take on more advanced lessons.

9. Google Cloud Computing Foundations: Cloud Computing Fundamentals (edX)

Perhaps you’re more interested in exploring Google’s cloud ecosystem. This course gives you an overview of cloud computing before zeroing in on Google Cloud solutions. You’ll learn the theoretical and practical applications of cloud computing. You’ll see why the cloud is significant for the future of work. Lastly, you’ll learn the different ways you can use Google Cloud.

Get Job-Ready With Cloud Computing Skills

This selection of free online courses makes it easy to learn cloud computing from scratch. If you’re wondering where to start, choose any of the classes listed above. After getting an overview, you’ll better understand which courses are worth your money, so you can pay for a verified certificate.

With most computing tasks moving to the cloud, cloud computing is worth learning. You can also supplement your cloud computing skills with other IT skills. Learn an in-demand programming language such as Python and get a more in-depth understanding of operating systems such as Windows and Linux. You have all the resources you need in the cloud.