Introduction to Cloud Computing: Which Platform Should You Learn (AWS, Azure, GCP)?
In today’s digital-first world, cloud computing is no longer an option — it’s a necessity. From startups to Fortune 500 companies, businesses across the globe are relying on cloud platforms to store data, run applications, scale infrastructure, and innovate rapidly. As a result, cloud computing has become one of the most in-demand skills in the IT job market.
But if you’re starting your journey into the cloud, one question always comes up:
Which cloud platform should I learn — AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud (GCP)?
Before diving into that, let’s build a solid understanding of what cloud computing actually is.
What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services — like servers, storage, databases, networking, software, and more — over the internet (“the cloud”) instead of using local servers or personal devices.
This technology allows businesses and individuals to:
Access data and applications remotely
Scale operations up or down quickly
Pay only for what they use
Eliminate the cost of maintaining physical infrastructure
Imagine Netflix: when you watch a movie, you’re not downloading it to your hard drive. You’re streaming it in real-time — thanks to cloud servers behind the scenes. That’s the power of cloud computing.
Types of Cloud Services (The Cloud Stack)
Before choosing a platform, it helps to understand the three main service models in cloud computing:
1. IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service)
Provides virtualized computing resources over the internet.
Example: Amazon EC2, Azure Virtual Machines, Google Compute Engine.
2. PaaS (Platform as a Service)
- Offers a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications without worrying about infrastructure
- Example: AWS Elastic Beanstalk, Azure App Services, Google App Engine.
3. SaaS (Software as a Service)
- Delivers software applications over the internet on a subscription basis
- Example: Gmail, Microsoft Office 365, Google Docs.
Why Learn Cloud Computing?
Here’s why cloud computing is a game-changer for your career:
High demand: Cloud skills are among the top priorities for tech hiring managers.
Attractive salaries: Cloud engineers, architects, and admins earn competitive pay.
Diverse roles: You can work in development, networking, security, data, or DevOps.
Global opportunities: Cloud jobs are available in every country and across industries.
The Big 3 Cloud Platforms: AWS, Azure, GCP
Let’s explore the three giants of cloud computing and help you decide which one suits your goals.
1. Amazon Web Services (AWS)
🔹 Market Share: AWS is the leading cloud provider, holding around 30-33% of the global market.
🔹 Launched: 2006 — the pioneer in public cloud services.
🔹 Used By: Netflix, Airbnb, NASA, Samsung, and thousands more.
Key Strengths:
Massive service catalog (200+ services)
Excellent global infrastructure (availability zones and regions)
Rich documentation and strong community support
Most mature platform in the market
Best For:
Beginners
Enterprises
Those aiming for versatile roles like DevOps, Security, or Data Engineering
Top AWS Certifications:
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (Foundational)
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
2. Microsoft Azure
Market Share: Around 22% and growing fast
🔹 Launched: 2010
🔹 Used By: LinkedIn, Adobe, HP, eBay, and many government agencies
Key Strengths:
Seamless integration with Microsoft products (Windows, Office 365)
Enterprise-friendly features
Excellent for hybrid cloud setups
Deep support for .NET and Windows-based apps
Best For:
Professionals in Windows-based environments
Organizations already using Microsoft software
Those interested in enterprise IT careers
Top Azure Certifications:
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104)
3. Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
🔹 Market Share: Around 10% — smaller, but rapidly growing
🔹 Launched: 2011
🔹 Used By: Spotify, Twitter, PayPal, Snapchat, and many startups
Key Strengths:
Superior data and analytics tools (BigQuery, TensorFlow)
Strong in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML)
Excellent Kubernetes and container support
Competitive pricing
Best For:
Developers focused on AI, ML, or data science
Startups and tech innovators
Those who want to work in analytics or cloud-native applications
Top GCP Certifications:
Google Associate Cloud Engineer
Google Professional Data Engineer
How to Choose the Right Platform?
Still confused? Here’s a quick comparison to help:
| Platform | Strength | Best For | Job Market |
|---|---|---|---|
AWS |
Wide range of services |
Beginners, Versatile careers |
Highest demand |
Azure |
Microsoft ecosystem |
Enterprises, Hybrid cloud |
Strong in corporate settings |
GCP |
AI, ML, Data tools |
Innovators, Analysts |
Growing, niche-focused |
How to Get Started?
Here’s a simple roadmap to begin your cloud journey:
Choose a platform (based on your goal)
Start with fundamentals course (AWS Cloud Practitioner, Azure AZ-900, or GCP ACE)
Practice hands-on using free tiers from each provider
Build small projects (e.g., deploy a website, set up a VM, try cloud storage)
Earn certifications to validate your skills
Keep learning with real-time case studies and advanced tools
Summary: Learn Smart with Cloud
Here’s a quick summary of what we covered:
✅ Cloud computing = delivering IT services over the internet
✅ 3 key models: IaaS, PaaS, SaaS
✅ Major platforms: AWS, Azure, GCP
✅ Choose based on your goal:
AWS = Generalist, DevOps, most job openings
Azure = Enterprise IT, Windows background
GCP = AI/ML/Data careers
✅ Start with basics, practice hands-on, and go for certification
Final Thoughts
Cloud computing isn’t just a trend — it’s the foundation of modern IT. Whether you want to become a cloud architect, data engineer, or security analyst, mastering a cloud platform is your gateway to a powerful career.
Remember: it’s not about choosing the “best” platform — it’s about choosing the right one for your goals.
So take that first step. Dive into the cloud.
And soon, you’ll be flying high with opportunities.