Cloud Computing and its Future Scope

Cloud computing is one of the most talked about IT trends today. This is because of the fact that cloud computing has helped several enterprises to save money while adding to the convenience of the users.  The word 'Cloud' refers to the widespread internet, which means Cloud Computing is an internet based computing where services are delivered to the users via internet.

What exactly is Cloud Computing?

It’s a type of computing which involves sharing of computer resources rather than using local servers or dedicated devices for processing. In simple words, it is the process of storing frequently used data on multiple servers which could be accessed by using the Internet. Various services like servers, storage and applications are provided to the user’s computing devices via Internet. Some good examples of using Cloud are:

• Dropbox - An online storage providing 2 GB of free storage to the users.

• Google - Letting the users to create documents and calendars for free.

Need of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is now becoming a business standard. It simplifies the user’s accessibility. It provides a virtual storage space to the user which could be used without bothering about the details of the entire mechanism. Here are some other reasons why every enterprise might need cloud computing for their business:

• Cost savings - Cloud computing removes the requirement of a company to invest in storage hardware and servers.

• Focusing on the business -Since all the services will execute over the internet, a company does not have to bother about technical issues and other problems associated with physical storage and backup. A company can thus focus more on their core business.

• Performance - It delivers reliable performance irrespective to the geographical location of the user. Another key feature could be the automatic updating of services and applications.

• Security - Cloud Computing offers optimum security which protects you against any unauthorized access, modification and loss of data.

• Flexibility - Even if part of the cloud environment fails or stops working, the other resources continue to work until the problem is fixed.

Skills Required

There is no specific qualification eligibility to learn Cloud Computing. The candidate should preferably be from an IT or computer related background so that he/she has the general knowledge about computers and programming. Knowledge of cloud computing basics or any relevant experience could be a great add on to get a job. Cloud computing comprises of several roles. These could be related to management, IT systems, end user support, application development, business analysis, network, security and web development. Every role requires specific skills. Here’s a compilation of all the skills required to explore the world of Cloud Computing.

Technical Skills - Knowledge of HTML, PaaS (Platform as a Service), Cloud Computing Basics like Virtualization technologies (like VMWare), OOPS and programming languages like Java, C++, .Net etc. Business and Financial Skills - Knowledge of business case, online marketing strategies and financial terminologies like ROI (Return On Investment). Project Management - Negotiating with the clients and having knowledge of risk analytics, service agreements and policies. Data Integration and Analysis - Having knowledge of database, data mining and ERP system (Enterprise Resource Planning). Security - Having knowledge of internet security, encryption, authorization and security protocols.

Certifications

Here are some of the major cloud computing certifications:

• EMC Cloud Architect (EMCCA)
• EMC Cloud Infrastructure and Services Certification (Associate Level)
• EMC Virtualized Data Center and Cloud Infrastructure Certification (Specialist Level)
• VMware Cloud Certification
• Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge
• IBM Certified Solution Architect
• Hp ExpertONE Cloud certification

Career Prospects

Cloud computing jobs are on the rise. According to a recent analysis, the international cloud computing market is expected to rise to $72 billion by 2015, and around 3 lakh job opportunities in India are expected in the same period. The roles in Cloud Computing might range from cloud developers to operators. Every role comprises of the knowledge of the cloud computing basics and certain domain specific skills. Here are some of the popular Cloud related job profiles:

• Cloud Software Engineer
• Cloud Project Manager
• Cloud Business Analyst
• Cloud Network Architect/Planner
• Cloud Product Manager
• Cloud Sales Executive
• Cloud Developer/Programmer
• Cloud Consultant
• Cloud Systems Engineer
• Cloud Systems Administrator
• Cloud Network Engineer

The demand for professionals with knowledge of Cloud Computing is expect to rise exponentially because more and more companies are implementing this technology.  Due to this, there are a number of institutes which provide cloud computing courses for the aspiring candidates. If you are one of these candidates, enroll yourself for a class now.