Cloud computing is transforming how businesses operate, creating vast opportunities for those who are skilled in cloud technologies. If you’re new to the world of cloud computing and looking to break into the field, earning a certification is a fantastic way to get started. In this article, we’ll explore the Top Cloud Certifications for Beginners 2024 that are specifically designed to help you build a strong foundation in cloud computing. These certifications are accessible to those with little to no prior experience and will set you on the path to becoming a cloud professional.
Why Cloud Certification is Important for Beginners?
Starting your cloud journey with a certification is a strategic move that offers several benefits, especially for beginners. Here’s why earning one of the Top Cloud Certifications for Beginners 2024 can help you kickstart your career:
- Foundational Knowledge: Certifications designed for beginners focus on the basics, giving you a solid understanding of cloud concepts and services.
- Career Entry Point: Cloud certifications can serve as a gateway to entry-level positions in the IT industry, where demand for cloud skills is growing rapidly.
- Confidence Building: Earning a certification boosts your confidence, providing proof that you have the knowledge and skills to work with cloud technologies.
- Structured Learning Path: Certifications offer a structured learning path, making it easier to navigate the vast landscape of cloud computing.
- Employer Recognition: Employers value certifications as they demonstrate your commitment to learning and mastering cloud technologies.
Let’s dive into the Top Cloud Certifications for Beginners 2024 that can help you get started with cloud computing.
Top 5 Beginners Cloud Certifications to Kick Start your Career
1. Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals Cloud Certification for Beginners
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals certification is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to understand the basics of cloud computing, specifically within the Microsoft Azure environment. This certification is designed for beginners, including those in non-technical roles, who want to gain foundational knowledge of Azure and cloud services.
As one of the Top Cloud Certifications for Beginners 2024, Azure Fundamentals covers essential cloud concepts such as scalability, security, and pricing models. It’s a great entry-level certification that can open doors to more advanced certifications and roles in cloud computing.
What You Will Learn:
- Core Azure services and solutions.
- Basic cloud concepts like elasticity, scalability, and security.
- Azure pricing, billing, and support models.
- Governance and compliance in Azure.
How the Exam is Like?
The Azure Fundamentals exam (AZ-900) consists of 40 to 60 multiple-choice questions, with a time limit of 85 minutes. The questions cover basic cloud concepts, Azure services, security, compliance, and pricing. The exam is known for its straightforward nature, making it accessible for beginners. It can be taken online or at a testing center.
- Price: $99 USD
- Validity Duration: No expiration
- Prerequisites: None
- Link for More Information: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
2. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification is a foundational-level certification offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS) and is perfect for those who are new to the cloud. This certification is tailored for beginners and provides a broad understanding of AWS cloud concepts, services, and pricing.
Recognized as one of the Top Cloud Certifications for Beginners 2024, the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner is ideal for individuals in non-technical roles or those looking to gain a general understanding of AWS before moving on to more specialized certifications.
What You Will Learn:
- Core AWS services and their applications.
- Basic cloud architecture principles.
- Security and compliance fundamentals on AWS.
- AWS pricing models and billing practices.
How the Exam is Like?
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam consists of 65 multiple-choice and multiple-response questions, with a time limit of 90 minutes. The exam is designed to assess your understanding of basic AWS concepts, including cloud infrastructure, security, and billing. It is an entry-level exam, making it suitable for beginners, and can be taken online or at a testing center.
- Price: $100 USD
- Validity Duration: 3 years
- Prerequisites: None
- Link for More Information: AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
3. Google Associate Cloud Engineer
The Google Associate Cloud Engineer certification is another excellent option for beginners who want to gain practical skills in managing Google Cloud Platform (GCP) solutions. This certification is designed to help you learn how to deploy applications, monitor operations, and manage enterprise solutions on GCP.
As part of the Top Cloud Certifications for Beginners 2024, the Google Associate Cloud Engineer certification offers hands-on experience, making it ideal for those who are ready to dive into cloud computing with Google Cloud.
What You Will Learn:
- Setting up a cloud solution environment.
- Planning and configuring Google Cloud resources.
- Deploying and implementing cloud solutions.
- Monitoring and managing cloud operations.
How the Exam is Like?
The Google Associate Cloud Engineer exam consists of 50 multiple-choice and multiple-select questions, with a time limit of 2 hours. The exam tests your hands-on experience with Google Cloud, including setting up and managing cloud resources, and ensuring the smooth operation of cloud solutions. It is designed to be approachable for beginners but does require some familiarity with cloud concepts. The exam can be taken online or at a testing center.
- Price: $125 USD
- Validity Duration: 2 years
- Prerequisites: None
- Link for More Information: Google Associate Cloud Engineer
4. CompTIA Cloud Essentials+
The CompTIA Cloud Essentials+ certification is a great starting point for those who are completely new to cloud computing. This certification focuses on the fundamentals of cloud services, providing a broad understanding of cloud concepts, business impacts, and management considerations.
As one of the Top Cloud Certifications for Beginners 2024, CompTIA Cloud Essentials+ is particularly useful for those in business or non-technical roles who need to understand the benefits and challenges of cloud adoption without diving into deep technical details.
What You Will Learn:
- Basic cloud concepts and terminology.
- Cloud computing models and service types.
- Business impact of cloud adoption.
- Cloud governance, risk management, and compliance.
How the Exam is Like?
The CompTIA Cloud Essentials+ exam consists of 75 multiple-choice questions, with a time limit of 60 minutes. The exam covers a wide range of topics, including cloud concepts, governance, and business impact. It is designed to be accessible to beginners, especially those in non-technical roles. The exam can be taken online or at a testing center.
- Price: $126 USD
- Validity Duration: No expiration
- Prerequisites: None
- Link for More Information: CompTIA Cloud Essentials+
5. IBM Certified Technical Advocate – Cloud v3
The IBM Certified Technical Advocate – Cloud v3 certification is an entry-level certification that focuses on the core concepts of cloud computing within IBM’s cloud environment. This certification is designed for those who are new to cloud computing and want to gain a foundational understanding of cloud services, architecture, and IBM Cloud offerings.
As part of the Top Cloud Certifications for Beginners 2024, this certification is ideal for individuals looking to explore cloud technologies through the lens of IBM Cloud.
What You Will Learn:
- Core cloud computing concepts and architecture.
- IBM Cloud services and solutions.
- Cloud deployment models and service models.
- Basic security and compliance in the cloud.
How the Exam is Like?
The IBM Certified Technical Advocate – Cloud v3 exam consists of multiple-choice questions, with a time limit of 90 minutes. The exam tests your understanding of cloud computing fundamentals, with a focus on IBM Cloud solutions. It is designed for beginners and can be taken online or at an IBM testing center.
- Price: $200 USD
- Validity Duration: 3 years
- Prerequisites: None
- Link for More Information: IBM Certified Technical Advocate – Cloud v3
Conclusion
Starting your journey into cloud computing with one of the Top Cloud Certifications for Beginners 2024 is a smart move. These certifications provide a strong foundation in cloud concepts, services, and practices, making them perfect for those who are just getting started with cloud technologies. Whether you’re looking to understand the basics of AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, or other cloud platforms, these certifications will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to advance in your cloud career.
Choosing the right certification depends on your career goals and the cloud platform you’re interested in. Begin with the basics, and as you gain experience, consider pursuing more advanced certifications to further enhance your skills. Getting started with cloud certifications is the first step towards a rewarding career in cloud computing. Good luck on your journey in 2024!
