Cloud Computing (AWS, Azure)

By the end, you can explain core cloud services, deploy a simple website and a database in the cloud, keep costs under control, and sit an entry certification exam.

Job-ready skillAbout 120 hours3 stagesFree

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Cloud computing means running servers, storage and software on platforms like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure instead of in a server room. Both have data centres in South Africa and many local companies are moving to them.

Turn on JavaScript to track your progress. The lessons are:FoundationsUnderstand what the cloud is: compute, storage, networking, security and pricing.Task: Draw (on paper or in a free tool) how a small online shop would run in the cloud: where the website, database and backups live, and what it would roughly cost per month using the official pricing calculator.Core skillsLearn the main services on AWS or Azure and how identity and access work.Task: Using a free tier account, host a static website in cloud storage, set up a user with limited permissions, and turn on a billing alert. Write down every step.Applied practiceDeploy, monitor and secure a small real project.Task: Deploy a simple app with a database, add monitoring, then delete everything cleanly so nothing keeps billing. Write a short runbook another person could follow.

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What competent looks like

Explains compute, storage, networking and identity in the cloud
Uses the free tier without surprise costs
Applies least-privilege access
Deploys and removes resources cleanly
Passes an entry exam (AWS Cloud Practitioner or AZ-900)

The South African route

Entry certificates are AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner and Microsoft AZ-900. Both providers run free training, and exam vouchers are sometimes offered through local programmes and events.

Free resources

AWS Skill Builder free training
Amazon Web Services
Azure Fundamentals learning path
Microsoft Learn

These links go to free courses and sites run by other organisations. We chose them in October 2026 but do not run them, so check costs, dates and entry requirements on their site. Broken link? Tell us.

Jobs it can lead to

Cloud support associate
Junior cloud engineer
IT support with cloud duties
Cloud intern