Cloud Computing for Beginners: AWS, Azure and Google Cloud Explained

Learn cloud computing fundamentals, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, AI-ready cloud, security, automation, resilience, FinOps, sustainability and UK cloud career pathways.

  • 4.6 (3 reviews)
  • 33 students
  • Last Update: 16 April, 2026

What you'll learn

  • Explain fundamental cloud concepts and distinguish between AWS, Azure and Google Cloud, as well as key cloud service models.
  • Understand cloud data lifecycles, generative AI cloud services and fundamental concepts associated with AI workloads.
  • Recognise key cloud security, UK data protection, sovereignty and shared responsibility considerations.
  • Explore containers, Kubernetes, serverless technologies, infrastructure as code, automation, observability and resilience.
  • Understand cloud cost planning, sustainability, adoption strategy, business value and UK cloud skills pathways.
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Course Description


Cloud computing has become a core part of modern digital services, from everyday business applications to data platforms and artificial intelligence.

Cloud Computing for Beginners: AWS, Azure and Google Cloud Explained provides a structured introduction to cloud concepts, major cloud platforms, AI-ready infrastructure, security, compliance, automation and cloud strategy.

The course progresses from foundational cloud models and services into data, responsible AI, secure cloud adoption, cloud-native operations, automation, cost planning, sustainability and UK cloud career pathways.

What You'll Learn

  • Explain fundamental cloud concepts and distinguish between AWS, Azure and Google Cloud, as well as key cloud service models.
  • Understand cloud data lifecycles, generative AI cloud services and fundamental concepts associated with AI workloads.
  • Recognise key cloud security, UK data protection, sovereignty and shared responsibility considerations.
  • Explore containers, Kubernetes, serverless technologies, infrastructure as code, automation, observability and resilience.
  • Understand cloud cost planning, sustainability, adoption strategy, business value and UK cloud skills pathways.

Why Take this Course

Cloud computing can seem complex when learners encounter different platforms, service models and technical terminology.

This course provides a structured introduction, helping learners build confidence across the main areas of modern cloud computing.

This course helps you:

✓ Build a foundation in cloud computing and understand how AWS, Azure and Google Cloud fit into the wider cloud landscape.
✓ Develop awareness of AI-ready cloud infrastructure, data lifecycles and responsible AI considerations.
✓ Understand the fundamentals of cloud security, UK data protection, sovereignty and exit planning.
✓ Explore modern cloud operations including containers, Kubernetes, serverless, automation and disaster recovery.
✓ Develop awareness of cloud strategy, FinOps, sustainability and potential UK cloud career pathways.

Who this Course is for

  • Cloud Computing Beginners
  • IT and Technology Professionals
  • Business and Digital Transformation Teams
  • Learners Exploring AI and Cloud Technologies
  • Learners Exploring Cloud Careers

Prerequisites

  • No prior data protection experience required
  • A basic understanding of your organisation
  • Access to a computer and internet
  • Enthusiasm to learn and apply best practice

Course Features

  • Lifetime access Learn anytime and revisit every lesson.
  • Mobile friendly Study smoothly on phone, tablet or desktop.
  • Certificate of completion Showcase your achievement after completion.
  • Downloadable resources Keep practical materials for future reference.
  • Practical Scenarios Apply knowledge through realistic workplace scenarios.
  • Dedicated Support Get help whenever you need guidance.

Course Curriculum

5 sections

•

20 lectures

    • UK Cloud Adoption and Digital Transformation

    • IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, Serverless and AI Services

    • AWS, Azure and Google Cloud Mapping

    • Cloud as a Digital Utility

    • Cloud Data Lifecycle

    • Generative AI Cloud Services

    • GPUs, Tokens, Vectors and AI Workloads

    • Responsible AI and Data Minimisation

    • Data Sovereignty, Lock-In and Exit Planning

    • UK GDPR, DPA 2018 and Data Transfers

    • NCSC Principles, Encryption and Monitoring

    • Shared Responsibility, Zero Trust and IAM

    • Observability, Resilience and Disaster Recovery

    • IaC, CI/CD and Policy as Code

    • Platform Engineering and Landing Zones

    • Containers, Kubernetes and Serverless

    • UK Cloud Roles and Skills Pathways

    • Cloud Adoption Strategy and Business Value

    • Sustainable Cloud and Net Zero Goals

    • Cloud Cost Planning and FinOps

Assessment & Certificate

Validate Your Cloud Computing Knowledge

This CPD-accredited course includes assessments to reinforce your understanding of cloud computing, platforms, AI-ready cloud, security, operations, automation and cloud strategy.

After successful completion, you will receive a CPD certificate recognising your achievement and supporting your continuing professional development record.

The CPD certificate is separate from any official certification. Candidates must complete the relevant certification provider's examination and requirements independently.

Assessment & Certificate

Career Opportunities

This course can add value to existing IT or technology knowledge, support continuing professional development (CPD), and strengthen foundational understanding for those looking to explore or progress within cloud computing and digital technology.

Roles linked to this subject area in the UK may include:

  • Cloud Support Technician
  • Junior Cloud Engineer
  • Cloud Administrator
  • Cloud Operations Analyst
  • Cloud Consultant
  • Cloud Security Analyst
  • Cloud Solutions Architect

Student Reviews

4.6

Course Rating

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“I had heard a lot about AWS, Azure and Google Cloud but wasn't sure how the platforms related to each other. The introductory structure made the cloud landscape much easier to understand.”

Response from DPG Support Team
Thank you, Oliver. We're pleased that the course helped you build a clearer foundation and understand the relationship between the major cloud platforms.

“The sections covering AI workloads, cloud security and modern cloud-native technologies gave me a useful introduction to areas I had previously found quite technical.”

Response from DPG Support Team
Thank you, Sophie. We're glad the course helped make these developing areas more approachable while building your overall cloud knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

The course is designed for beginners, learners exploring cloud computing, IT and technology professionals, digital transformation teams and anyone seeking a structured introduction to modern cloud technologies.

Yes. The course begins with fundamental cloud concepts and gradually introduces platforms, service models, AI-ready cloud, security, cloud-native operations and strategy.

Yes. The curriculum introduces AWS, Azure and Google Cloud mapping alongside broader cloud service models and technologies.

Yes. The curriculum includes shared responsibility, Zero Trust, IAM, NCSC Principles, encryption, monitoring, UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, data transfers, sovereignty and exit planning.

No. This course provides general educational and CPD-accredited training. It does not itself award an AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud or other vendor-specific professional certification. Candidates must complete the relevant certification provider's examination and requirements independently.