Step 1: Choose one cloud
Pick AWS or Azure based on the jobs you want. Our AWS or Azure guide explains how to choose.
Step 2: Pass a fundamentals certification
AWS Cloud Practitioner (CLF-C02) or Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) gives you the vocabulary and big picture, and an early win for your CV. Most beginners prepare in two to six weeks.
Step 3: Learn the foundations employers assume
- Linux: most cloud servers run Linux.
- Networking: IP addresses, DNS, subnets and firewalls.
- Scripting: basic Bash or PowerShell, and a little Python.
Step 4: Build projects you can show
Certifications get you noticed, but projects get you hired. Good first projects:
- Host a static website with a custom domain and HTTPS.
- Build a virtual network with a web server and a database, and document the security choices.
- Automate the same setup with Terraform.
Put the code on GitHub and write a short explanation for each project.
Step 5: Take an associate certification
AWS Solutions Architect Associate or Azure Administrator (AZ-104) is where most employers start to take candidates seriously for cloud roles.
Step 6: Apply for stepping-stone roles
IT support, service desk, junior cloud engineer, cloud support associate and technical operations roles all build real experience. Many cloud engineers started in exactly these jobs.
Step 7: Keep a learning routine
Cloud changes constantly. A few hours a week of labs and reading keeps your skills current and gives you fresh things to talk about in interviews.