Best Introduction to Cloud Computing Course for Beginners: A Real Review
If you’ve been hearing terms like “AWS,” “cloud storage,” or “IaaS” tossed around and have no idea what they mean — you’re not alone. Cloud computing can sound overwhelming at first, but thanks to beginner-friendly online courses, anyone can learn the fundamentals from scratch.
Today, we’re digging into one of the most popular learning options available — an online Introduction to Cloud Computing course taught by top-rated instructors on Coursera, Udemy, and Pluralsight. If you’re thinking about transforming your career or simply want to understand the tech driving modern business, keep reading.
We’ll break down the course content, value, who it’s for, and whether it’s truly worth your time and money.
Why Cloud Computing Matters More Than Ever
Today, nearly every company uses some form of cloud technology — whether it’s storing files in Google Drive, hosting applications on AWS, or running AI models on Azure. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that jobs in cloud-based systems and IT support will grow significantly through 2030.
The demand is there. The salaries are there. The only thing missing? You — with the right knowledge.
If you’re completely new to tech or IT, this beginner course is designed to help you build a solid foundation without needing to code or understand advanced math.
Course at a Glance
The most popular “Introduction to Cloud Computing” courses — including those on Coursera and Udemy — are taught by leading experts like Stephane Maarek (AWS Hero) and Zainab El-Zubair. These instructors break down complex ideas into simple and practical lessons.
What You’ll Learn
- What cloud computing is (and why it matters)
- Major providers: AWS, Azure, GCP, IBM
- IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS models explained
- Deployment types: Public, Private, Hybrid, Community
- Cloud storage tools like S3, EBS, and EFS
- Real-world cloud use cases that drive innovation
All taught using short videos, diagrams, real-life business situations, and bitesize quizzes to test your learning. And the best part? It’s platform-agnostic — so you’re not tied to just AWS or any one cloud provider.
Is This Course Right for You?
If you’re:
- ✔️ A complete beginner
- ✔️ A business analyst wanting to talk tech with engineers
- ✔️ An aspiring IT or cloud support specialist
- ✔️ A project manager needing cloud knowledge for client work
This course was built for you.
It’s not just about studying. It’s about understanding. You’ll learn how the cloud powers everything from Netflix streaming to Amazon warehouses and banking apps.
However, if you’re already deep into DevOps or seeking advanced training, this might be too basic. But for a solid introduction — this is a great starting point.
Who Teaches These Courses?
The top courses are taught by industry leaders. Here are three worth noting:
- Stephane Maarek (on Udemy): Known for his clarity and AWS knowledge. Over 1 million students have enrolled in his tech courses.
- Zainab El-Zubair (Udemy): Offers whiteboard-style explanations, ideal for visual learners.
- David Chappell (on Pluralsight): Creator of “Cloud Computing: The Big Picture,” praised for business context and vendor-neutral insights.
These instructors are regularly cited on Reddit and Quora as go-to resources for cloud fundamentals and are featured in trusted roundups including TechRadar and Cloud Academy comparisons.
Pros: Why People Love This Course
- 🟢 Beginner-Friendly: No technical skills required
- 🟢 Simple and clear explanations with relatable analogies
- 🟢 Useful real-world examples make concepts click
- 🟢 Affordable — under $20 during Udemy sales or free trials on Coursera and Pluralsight
- 🟢 Certificate of completion available
Examples from Reddit and Quora call this course “the perfect starting point” and “ideal for anyone transitioning from non-tech roles.”
Cons: Where It May Fall Short
- 🔴 Limited hands-on practice — no real labs
- 🔴 Some lessons may feel surface-level (this is expected at beginner level)
- 🔴 Materials can become outdated as cloud services rapidly evolve
- 🔴 May not help very technical learners looking for in-depth architecture
To get truly hands-on? Pair this course with a free-tier AWS or GCP account and start building. You can also move to certification-focused courses like the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner after this.
Is It Worth the Price?
Absolutely — especially considering the value.
- Udemy: Often $12.99 – $19.99 with lifetime access
- Pluralsight: $29/month with broader IT content library
- Coursera: Free 7-day trial, then $49–$59/month for professional certificates
When you compare this against bootcamps or even tech degrees, the ROI is incredible. You’re learning industry-standard cloud knowledge in a few weeks without spending thousands.
What Students Are Saying
On Reddit, one user said:
“I started with Stephane Maarek’s course on Udemy. It was super helpful for someone completely new to cloud. Now, I’m studying for the AWS Cloud Practitioner exam.”
On YouTube, tech educators rave about how these intro courses make cloud “non-scary” for people from sales, marketing, HR, and operations.
Final Thoughts: Is This the Best Intro to Cloud Course?
For the price, accessibility, and teaching quality, yes — this is one of the best courses for anyone curious about cloud computing.
But remember: Learning is just the beginning. To become proficient or earn money working in tech, you’ll need real-world practice. Use this introduction as a launchpad.
You can always move on to specialized paths — AWS certification tracks, Azure Fundamentals, or even Google Cloud tutoring once you’ve nailed the basics.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward a cloud career or simply want to become technically fluent in today’s digital world, this Introduction to Cloud Computing course is a no-brainer.
Whether you’re exploring a new career or just want to learn something vital in the 21st-century workforce, cloud computing literacy is a must. Don’t miss the chance to learn from some of the best instructors in the field — on your own schedule, at your own pace.
Let your cloud journey begin.