The Top Cloud Computing And Serverless Computing Certifications You Should Pursue
The technology industry is constantly evolving, and cloud computing and serverless computing are two areas that have gained significant attention in recent years. These technologies offer businesses flexible solutions for managing their IT infrastructure without the need for expensive hardware or manual maintenance. As a result, there has been an increasing demand for professionals with expertise in these fields.
If you’re looking to advance your career in cloud computing or serverless computing, pursuing relevant certifications can be an excellent way to demonstrate your skills and knowledge. However, with so many certification options available, it can be challenging to determine which ones are worth pursuing.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the top cloud computing and serverless computing certifications currently available in the market. By understanding what each certification entails and how it can benefit your career, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision about which one(s) to pursue.
Aws Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification is one of the most sought-after cloud computing certifications in the industry. This certification validates an individual’s expertise in designing and deploying cloud-based architecture solutions using Amazon Web Services (AWS).
The course covers various topics such as cloud infrastructure management strategies, security protocols, and best practices. Cloud-based architecture design is a critical skill that every IT professional should possess. An architect who has this knowledge can design secure, scalable, and cost-effective systems that meet business objectives.
With the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification, professionals acquire these skills and are recognized for their proficiency in building architectures that leverage AWS services. Obtaining this certification provides numerous benefits to IT professionals. It increases job opportunities since many organizations prefer certified architects over non-certified ones.
In addition, it shows employers that the holder has invested time and resources into acquiring valuable skills required in today’s competitive market. Such recognition leads to higher salaries than those without formal credentials or qualifications.
Next up on our list is Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect; let’s dive into what makes this certification important!
Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect
Eligibility requirements for the Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect certification include a minimum of five years of experience in IT, with two or more years of experience designing and managing solutions using Google Cloud Platform.
The exam for this certification is designed to test a candidate’s ability to design and plan a cloud solution architecture, manage and provision the cloud solution infrastructure and ensure successful operations for solutions designed using Google Cloud Platform.
The exam format consists of multiple-choice and multiple-select questions, and some questions may contain images or diagrams.
The exam is intended to test the candidate’s ability to analyze and evaluate complex cloud architecture scenarios.
Eligibility Requirements
To become a Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect, one must meet certain eligibility requirements.
First and foremost, candidates should possess an in-depth understanding of cloud computing technologies and architectures. They should also have hands-on experience with public clouds like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure or the Google Cloud Platform.
Experience needed for the certification is crucial as it validates that you can design, develop, and manage robust, secure, scalable and dynamic solutions based on business objectives using GCP technologies. The recommended minimum level of experience to qualify for this exam is three years leading enterprise-class architecture designs and implementations across multiple projects/products/systems/families-of-businesses.
In terms of cost comparison, the fee for taking the exam is $200 USD. However, there are many online courses available which may help reduce your overall costs associated with preparing for this certification.
While these courses vary in price range from free to several thousand dollars depending on their length and intensity level but they will provide you with comprehensive knowledge about all aspects of cloud computing technologies.
Exam Format
Moving on to the exam format for the Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect, it is essential to understand that this certification exam is computer-based and available through testing centers worldwide. This means that candidates can take the exam online from anywhere in the world with a reliable internet connection.
The benefits of taking an online exam are numerous; they include convenience, flexibility, and accessibility. Online exams offer test-takers more control over their schedule, as they have the option to choose their preferred date and time.
In comparison to paper-based exams, computer-based exams provide several advantages such as immediate feedback on results, quicker grading times, higher accuracy levels due to automated scoring systems, enhanced security measures during examination sessions, and less environmental impact due to reduced paper usage.
Furthermore, computer-based tests allow candidates to navigate back-and-forth between questions quickly and efficiently while also providing a timer function that helps them manage their time better.
Having knowledge of these aspects concerning the exam format will equip you better for success in achieving your Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect certification. Thus, ensure you prepare adequately by studying relevant materials in conjunction with taking practice exams before sitting for the actual test.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
With the Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect exam covered, it’s time to move on and explore another essential certification in cloud computing: The Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect Expert. This credential is designed for professionals who want to demonstrate expertise in designing and implementing solutions that run on Microsoft Azure.
There are several benefits of earning an Azure Certification. Firstly, it validates your skills as a solutions architect working with Microsoft technologies. Additionally, this certification opens up opportunities for high-paying jobs globally. According to Payscale, the average salary for a certified Azure solutions architect expert ranges from $110k – $200k per year based on experience and location.
Azure vs AWS debate has been going on for years now when it comes to choosing the best cloud provider for organizations’ needs. Both platforms have their strengths and weaknesses, but one significant advantage of using Azure over AWS is its integration capabilities with other Microsoft products such as Office 365 and Power BI.
Moreover, Forrester Research named Azure the leader among public cloud providers because of its focus on hybrid cloud deployments.
The next section will look at yet another vital certification that any aspiring IT professional should consider pursuing; the Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA). This certification focuses specifically on container orchestration technologies like Docker and Kubernetes, which are becoming increasingly popular in modern software development practices.
Certified Kubernetes Administrator (Cka)
Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) is a certification that validates your knowledge and skills in deploying, managing, and troubleshooting applications on the Kubernetes platform. This certification has gained significant popularity among IT professionals as it offers lucrative job prospects in the cloud computing industry. According to recent surveys, CKA certified individuals can earn an average of $144k per year.
To achieve success in the CKA exam, one must have practical experience working with Kubernetes. It is essential to understand various concepts such as pod deployment strategies, service discovery mechanisms, container security practices, and network policies. Additionally, candidates should familiarize themselves with kubectl commands and YAML syntax for creating manifests.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for the CKA exam:
- Practice hands-on exercises offered by online courses or tutorials.
- Set up a Kubernetes cluster locally using tools like Minikube or Kind.
- Use practice tests or mock exams to simulate real-world scenarios and identify areas where improvement is needed.
Moving onto AWS Certified Developer – Associate, this certification focuses on validating proficiency in developing applications on Amazon Web Services (AWS).
Aws Certified Developer – Associate
The AWS Certified Developer – Associate certification is designed to validate a candidate’s proficiency in developing and maintaining applications on the AWS platform.
This certification focuses on various aspects of AWS, including building serverless applications using AWS Lambda Functions, deploying them through different serverless deployment models, and leveraging other AWS services for application development.
One of the essential components covered by this certification is AWS Lambda Functions. These functions are used to run code without provisioning or managing servers explicitly. They can be triggered automatically based on certain events such as changes made to data stored in an S3 bucket or user requests made through API Gateway. By obtaining this certification, candidates will have a thorough understanding of how to create and deploy Lambda functions effectively.
Another critical aspect that this certification covers is serverless deployment models. Serverless computing allows developers to focus solely on writing code rather than worrying about infrastructure management. The exam tests candidates’ knowledge of popular serverless deployment models like Elastic Beanstalk, SAM (Serverless Application Model), and CloudFormation Templates.
By mastering these concepts, developers can build scalable and cost-effective applications while improving performance and reliability.
In summary, earning the AWS Certified Developer – Associate certification provides professionals with a comprehensive understanding of developing serverless applications on the AWS platform. Candidates who obtain this certificate gain expertise in programming languages supported by AWS services and learn how to design secure, scalable, fault-tolerant systems that optimize cloud resources usage efficiently.
With increasing demand for cloud computing skills in today’s job market, holding this industry-recognized credential could open up numerous career opportunities for aspiring individuals looking to advance their careers in cloud technology fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Difference Between Cloud Computing And Serverless Computing?
Cloud computing and serverless computing are two distinct paradigms in the world of IT. Cloud computing is a model for delivering on-demand access to shared resources, such as servers, storage, applications, and services over the internet.
On the other hand, serverless architecture benefits users by allowing them to focus on writing code without having to manage or provision infrastructure. In this way, it’s an even more streamlined version of cloud-based technology that eliminates the need for developers to worry about maintaining servers.
Some cloud providers offering serverless computing include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and Microsoft Azure. By opting for serverless computing with these providers, businesses can benefit from reduced costs associated with scaling up or down their infrastructure according to traffic demands while still enjoying superior performance and flexibility compared to traditional approaches.
What Are Some Common Job Roles That Require Cloud Computing Or Serverless Computing Certifications?
Cloud computing and serverless computing have become integral to modern businesses, with the former offering a flexible infrastructure that can be accessed remotely and scaled up or down as required.
The latter, on the other hand, takes this one step further by allowing developers to focus solely on writing code without worrying about managing servers.
As such, serverless computing offers numerous benefits for businesses including reduced costs, increased agility, and improved scalability.
Given these advantages, it’s no surprise that there is strong demand for professionals who possess cloud computing and serverless computing certifications in job roles such as Cloud Architect, Solutions Architect, DevOps Engineer, and Cloud Developer.
How Long Does It Typically Take To Prepare For And Pass These Certification Exams?
When preparing for cloud computing or serverless computing certification exams, it is recommended that candidates devote several weeks or months to study and practice.
Exam preparation strategies may include reviewing official documentation, taking online courses, attending workshops or bootcamps, and practicing with sample questions and hands-on labs.
Recommended study materials can vary depending on the specific certification exam, but may include textbooks, video lectures, practice exams, and interactive learning platforms.
To stay motivated and engaged during the preparation process, candidates may benefit from joining study groups or communities where they can share resources and discuss topics with other learners.
By dedicating sufficient time and effort to preparation activities and using effective study materials and strategies, candidates can increase their chances of passing cloud computing or serverless computing certification exams.
Are There Any Prerequisites Or Recommended Experience Levels For These Certifications?
Certification eligibility and necessary skills are important factors to consider when pursuing cloud computing and serverless computing certifications.
Before enrolling in any certification program, it is recommended that individuals possess a certain level of experience with the relevant technologies. For example, some certifications may require candidates to have practical knowledge of AWS or Microsoft Azure platforms.
In addition, proficiency in programming languages such as Java or Python can also be beneficial for certain certifications.
Overall, understanding the prerequisites and recommended skill levels for each certification can help aspiring professionals determine which path is best suited for their career goals.
How Often Do These Certifications Need To Be Renewed Or Updated To Remain Valid?
Renewal frequency and industry recognition are crucial factors to consider when pursuing cloud computing and serverless computing certifications. These certifications typically need to be renewed every two or three years, depending on the specific certification program requirements.
Renewal ensures that professionals stay up-to-date with the latest developments in their field, and maintain their proficiency. Industry recognition is also essential since it can help professionals stand out from their peers and demonstrate mastery of critical skills.
Therefore, choosing a well-respected certification program with a high degree of industry recognition is vital for career advancement opportunities.
Conclusion
Cloud computing and serverless computing have become increasingly popular in recent years, leading to a growing demand for professionals with certifications in these areas.
While cloud computing involves the use of remote servers to store, manage, and process data, serverless computing takes it one step further by shifting more of the infrastructure management responsibilities to the cloud service provider.
Some common job roles that require these certifications include cloud architects, developers, engineers, administrators, and security specialists.
Preparing for and passing certification exams typically requires anywhere from a few months to over a year of study and practice. Prerequisites and recommended experience levels vary depending on the specific certification, but generally involve some level of familiarity with cloud technologies and programming languages.
It is also important to note that many certifications must be renewed or updated every few years to remain valid in an ever-evolving industry.
In conclusion, pursuing certifications in cloud computing and serverless computing can greatly enhance one’s career prospects in today’s technology-driven job market.
The skills gained through earning these certifications not only demonstrate expertise in cloud technologies but also provide value in terms of increased efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness for organizations utilizing such services.
As the need for cloud-based solutions continues to grow across industries worldwide, obtaining relevant certifications remains a wise investment for those looking to stay ahead of the curve.