Top Cloud Computing Certifications
Cloud computing can be a highly specialized and lucrative field of study. A cloud computing specialist can choose to work for a single company or offer his services to multiple companies on a per project basis.
While getting a bachelor's degree is a good first step towards joining the industry, many companies also require their employees to carry certifications from established cloud computing programs catering to specific niches. The more of these certifications you are able to qualify for, the better your ranking will be. Here are some of the top cloud computing certifications you could earn:
1. CompTIA Cloud+
With CompTIA, you can opt for either Cloud Essentials or Cloud+ program. Of the two, Cloud+ is generally seen as a more comprehensive certificate. You would need at least two years experience in IT to qualify for the program.
The coursework for Cloud+ deals with cloud computing terminology and methods, IT security and the best practices for virtualization and maintaining a cloud infrastructure. You will need to be experienced in areas of IT networking, data center administration and network storage. The certificate remains valid for three years and you will need to earn 50 continuing education units to reapply for certification after three years have elapsed.
2. MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure
In 2017, Microsoft will replace MCSE - Private Cloud Credential with MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure credential. The course mainly teaches candidates to manage data centers and improve their skills relating to networking virtualization, systems management, and related cloud technologies.
In order to apply for the certificate, you need to obtain a Microsoft Certified Solution Associate Certification for any of the following: Windows Server 2016, Cloud Platform, Linux on Azure or Windows Server 2012 certification.
You will need to give two to three separate exams to qualify for each of the above certifications. After that, you'll need to pass an MCSE specialty exam. The Microsoft Virtual Academy offers free courses and training on most of the topics you will study under cloud development. You can also purchase an exam with retake and practice papers in a bundle for a discounted price.
3. VMware VCP6 - Cloud
VMware is the leader in cloud virtualization, so it's only natural that their certificate carries a lot of weight in cloud computing circles. The VCP6 has been specially designed for IT professionals who are learning to extend data virtualization for the cloud.
To earn the VCP6-CMA, you need to follow one of these paths:
- If you have a VCP6 cloud certification, you are eligible to receive a VCP6-CMA certification without having to pass any fresh exam.
- If you have a valid VCP credential, you'll need to take the 2VO-631 exam for cloud management and automation.
- If your VCP certification has expired, you will need to enroll for a training course and pass exam 2V0-620 as well as exam 2V0-631.
- If you're just starting out with VCP6-CMA, you will need to have at least six months of experience with vSphere 6 and vRealize. After taking the training course, you must pass both the 2V0-620 and 2V0-631 exams.
4. AWS Certified Solution Architect - Professional
With the AWS, Amazon Web Services has also jumped into the cloud computing certification fray. It launched the program in 2013 with three associate level and two professional level certifications.
The Solutions Architect certification is aimed at professionals who have two or more years experience with cloud deployment on AWS. Having the certificate will qualify you to work with clients to plan and design solutions that meet their cloud requirements.
The coursework deals with topics such as business continuity, costing, deployment management, network design, security, scalability, cloud migrations as well as hybrid architecture. Other certifications in the program include:
- Associate Architect: Who identifies and gathers requirements for solution plans and advises on the best AWS project practices. This certification is essential for receiving the professional certificate.
- Certified Developer: Implements cloud-based solutions for AWS.
- SysOps Administrator: Automates deployment, monitors metrics and provides system services on AWS.
- DevOps Engineer: Manages the distributed applications on AWS by helping implement delivery systems, security controls, compliance validation and system metrics.
For the longest time, Amazon has been at the top when it comes to cloud computing. With the AWS certification, you can approach channel partners who have AWS as a major part of their business. The credential helps distinguish your expertise from other certificate courses issued by AWS's competitors.
Any of the above-mentioned certifications allow you to rise through the ranks at your company from the position of a bachelor holder to the position of a certified expert while greatly improving your job prospects.
Are you intrigued by the world of cloud computing? If you’re Interested in earning a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Cyber and Network Security - Cloud Computing Track consider ECPI University for the education you need to compete in this ever-changing field. For more information, contact a friendly admissions advisor today!
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