How Can I Start Learning Azure?

Companies have found cloud computing really beneficial so far. Traditionally they were storing everything on their personal servers. Whenever any software was required, a lengthy procedure was involved in procuring it, taking care of the licensing terms, high upfront costs, maintenance issues, and so on. But today, the cloud is the new way of storing data, using software, platform, and even infrastructure as a service. All companies need to do is find a reliable cloud services provider, decide what services they need, and complete the subscription. The best part? The services are offered on a pay-as-you-go model, and no high initial costs are involved. 

One of the leading cloud services providers is Microsoft Azure – it is used by a number of companies to build, deploy, and manage applications via their global network of data centers. It offers over 200 fully-featured cloud services in categories like compute, storage, networking, databases, along with advanced ones like artificial intelligence, big data analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain. Its flexible pricing is one of the top reasons companies rely on Azure, helping them scale up or scale down the architecture as per their needs. 

Microsoft is giving tough competition to Amazon Web Services (AWS) and becoming the fastest-growing cloud platform in the world. If you are looking for a challenging career option, then Azure might just be the right option for you. When you learn Azure basics and achieve some industry-recognized Azure certifications, then establishing your career in this domain would become easier for you. 

But, how do I start learning Azure? – Is this the question bothering you now? If yes, then read on to know your top resources for gaining expertise in Azure. 

Getting Started with Microsoft Azure

First things first – Microsoft is a vast cloud services provider, and you don’t need to be an expert in using all of its services. You just need to have a basic understanding of how it works and learn about only those services that your job involves. Here are some of the top resources that can help you get started. 

Microsoft Learn

What can be a better source to learn Azure than exploring the modules created by Microsoft itself? Microsoft Learn is a platform where learners can go through Azure training modules for free. There are different learning paths curated for beginners to intermediate learners, and you can pick any one of your choices. Beginners can start with the Azure Fundamentals learning path. They can then move on to Store data in Azure, Deploy a website to Azure with Azure App Services, Administer containers in Azure, and lastly Create serverless logic with Azure Functions. 

Microsoft Azure Certifications

Preparing for an Azure certification is also a good way of achieving cloud skills. Microsoft Azure certifications are role-based, and depending upon whether you want to become a cloud developer, consultant, administrator, or cloud solutions architect, you can select the desired certification. The syllabus for each certification is clearly defined, and you will understand what Azure services and concepts will be useful to you for a particular role. What’s more? Azure certifications are highly regarded by companies and improve your earning potential. 

Training Courses by Simplilearn

Azure certifications are fine, but if you are a working professional, will you be able to spend time on independent study? Online training courses are specifically designed for such professionals. Simplilearn is a leading certification training provider and offers a variety of courses on Microsoft Azure. Whether you are looking for a particular certification training course or seeking a position as a cloud architect, or just want to learn the basics of cloud computing, there is a dedicated course for all your learning needs. All the courses are divided into short video modules to keep you engaged and learn step-by-step. 

Work on industry projects

Learning theoretical concepts only won’t get you anywhere in your career; a lot of emphasis should be given to practical experience as well. How will the employers believe that you can apply the skills developed through training courses? It’s when you work on some industry projects. Training providers like Simplilearn offer industry-oriented and capstone projects to help you deal with real-world scenarios and offer the best cloud solutions for a given problem. It’s while working with them that you understand how the actual corporate environment would be and what you will be expected to do. 

Bottom Line

We have mentioned a general learning path that you can follow to learn about Azure. You can tweak them if you find better resources and progress accordingly. Opportunities in cloud computing are increasing every year, and now is the right time to take up Azure courses or the best AWS course, depending on your career interests. Make sure you take up reliable training programs whose course content is upgraded regularly to include any new features or functionalities introduced by Microsoft. Azure has the largest market share in the corporate world, and gaining skills in this domain would definitely pay off in the future.