Cloud computing is more than just a trend of this era. Cloud technology has changed the way organizations perform business processes. But to manage cloud operations, an individual must have the necessary cloud skills. Becoming a cloud architect will upskill you in cloud computing and put you on an excellent career path.

In this article, we will learn about cloud architecture and the career opportunities ahead of a cloud architect.

What is Cloud Architecture?

Cloud architecture is the system formed using cloud components and technological resources. Cloud architecture is formed when all these components and subcomponents are pooled together and shared across a network. 

Every cloud architecture is primarily built with these components:

• A front-end platform
• A back-end platform
• A cloud-based delivery
• A network

These components work together to provide end-users with cloud resources that they can use to find innovative solutions to customer problems.

The best way to master cloud architecture is by applying for a cloud architect course. There are plenty of online courses, and you can find one that fulfills your requirements.

Skills taught in a Cloud Architect course

While plenty of cloud platforms provide certifications for mastering cloud computing with them, it is important to understand that the overall skillset you need remains the same for all of them.

Becoming a cloud architect means acquiring basic knowledge and skills in cloud computing. The course you choose must upskill you in the following areas:

1. Enterprise computing

Familiarizing yourself with various operating systems is essential. A cloud architect course should teach you how to work with Linux, Windows, Unix, Solaris, and Ubuntu. Professionals with prior experience in at least one Linux operating system always have an advantage over others.

Just having experience with working on these operating systems isn’t enough; you must have a deep understanding of how these operating systems work. This is one of the many ways you can prove yourself as a versatile professional. Understanding various computing systems becomes essential when working with system administrators. Identifying problems and finding suitable solutions is one of the ways cloud architects collaborate.

1. Programming languages

As a cloud architect, you do not need to be a master in coding, but having some basic knowledge will help you a lot. Your daily tasks in cloud computing will become easier when you are skilled in programming and scripting languages. Primary programming languages like C#, Perl, .NET, and Python are essential for a cloud architect.

A general understanding of programming languages will make the collaboration process easier, as when your organization faces some problems, you can all work on a solution together. In addition, a cloud architect can also use programming languages to try out different solutions and their practicality.

1. Networking and data centers

A cloud architect works with moving systems from networks and data systems to the cloud. So as much knowledge as they have on the cloud, they must also have the same knowledge of various networks and data centers. Networking and data centers are, in fact, the essential areas in which a cloud architect must have expertise.

Among networking, they need to specialize in software-defined networking, private line-based networking, load balancers, routing protocols, internet protocols, and vast area network connections. They must also know about server virtualization, containers, and various types of storage.

1. Cloud security

Cloud networks are known for their security but must be checked and maintained regularly by a cloud architect. The cloud service providers are usually the ones responsible for the security of the cloud network, but the role of the architect demands them to be aware of security measures.

So they must be skilled in firewalls and encryption and understand the functionality of VPN concentrators, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and firewalls. Cloud architects must have plans to protect the system in areas more inclined to security threats.

1. Business skills

Other than all the technical skills a cloud architect should have, there are also a wide variety of business skills or soft skills they must possess. Communication skills and leadership qualities are at the top of this list. These skills go hand in hand as a good leader is also a great communicator. So having a real connection with your teammates and maintaining a good relationship with other departments, management, and stakeholders is extremely important.

Knowing how to lead a team of cloud professionals and effectively collaborate with other departments will prove you an excellent cloud architect.

Why become a Cloud Architect?

Cloud architecture has become a very demanding career in the past few years. Professionals with cloud computing and infrastructure skills are hired more quickly than technicians and engineers. So anyone in the IT industry is encouraged to upskill themself in the cloud if they want to improve their job prospects.

Cloud architects with knowledge of the top three cloud technologies, i.e., AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud, have an edge in the job market. Most cloud architect courses cover all three of these platforms, and then the individual can go ahead and get the certification from the platform they want.

There is also the cloud architect's salary to take into consideration. According to Salary.com, a cloud architect in the United States makes an average of $138,596 annually. 

Cloud Architect job responsibilities

A cloud architect is responsible for many tasks in the cloud environment. Some of the primary responsibilities of a cloud architect are:

• Maintaining a cloud environment and handling all operations from planning to designing.
• Help the organization adapt to the cloud environment by creating a cloud strategy and taking responsibility for the adaption process.
• Keep track of security operations in the cloud and maintain the cloud’s privacy.
• Provide expertise and guidance to the company over technical issues relating to the cloud.
• Recognize the relevant systems and work with them.

Conclusion

A cloud architect course helps you become competent by training you with the right tools and skills. It also polishes your programming knowledge and makes you a strong leader and an excellent communicator.