If you’re interested in upskilling in cloud computing, you’d be making a very wise decision. Cloud computing professionals around the globe are in extremely high demand and getting compensated handsomely for their unique set of skills. 

“Essentially every meaningful consumer application or service that you can think of today is based on cloud technology. As a result, the demand for cloud talent has shot up.”

• Scott Bonneau

Vice president of global talent attraction at Indeed

But what cloud computing certifications are the most desirable by employers in 2023? In this blog, we’ll explore the best cloud certifications to get this year, so that you can stay one step ahead of the competition.

Why get certified in cloud computing?

It’s not just the competitive compensation you can look forward to with a cloud career. Cloud computing is widely regarded as “recession-proof” as virtually every business runs on cloud infrastructure.

Getting certified in cloud computing can offer a range of benefits, from making you stand out in a crowded candidate market to giving you the skills you need to ask for higher pay in your current role. 

Cloud careers are often multi-faceted and give you ample opportunities to step up in your career and land a more senior position (and a six-figure salary to boot!) The success of your cloud career all depends on your education and experience. 

So if you’re looking to succeed in the cloud, whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned IT professional, here are the cloud certifications you should explore in 2023. 

Want more cloud career advice? Read our previous blog, “Career opportunities in cloud computing and how to get started.”

The 5 most popular cloud certifications for 2023.

Below you’ll find a list of the best cloud computing certifications you can acquire in 2023 to succeed in your cloud career and attract future employers. 

AWS Solutions Architect Associate Certification

Amazon Web Services never fails to be one of the most popular cloud certifications, and 2023 is no exception. The AWS Solutions Architect Associate certification may be of particular interest if you’re new to AWS solutions but have a few months of experience. 

This certification will test your knowledge of AWS and the practical skills needed to build and implement distributed systems on AWS. It will culminate in one 130-minute multi-choice examination assessing how well you can build and manage AWS cloud services. 

Course options

Amazon Web Services

Udemy

Pluralsight

Where you can get certified

Amazon Web Services

How much the certification costs

$150

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Certification

The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification is excellent for beginners, as this examination will test your overall understanding of AWS Cloud solutions. So this is a great starting point if you're looking to dip your toes into the AWS cloud services. 

In a 90-minute multiple-response and multi-choice exam, you'll be tested on how well you comprehend AWS cloud infrastructure and architectural principles in general and your understanding of AWS services.

Course options

Amazon Web Services

Udemy

Coursera

Where you can get certified

Amazon Web Services

How much the certification costs

$100

Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification

Microsoft Azure is one of the best cloud platforms to get certified with, as they're the second-biggest player in the cloud market. Their Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification is perfect if you already have basic knowledge of cloud services. 

In an 85-minute multiple-choice examination, you'll be tested on your understanding of cloud principles and Microsoft Azure's particular cloud services, security, customer support, price points, and more.

Course options

Coursera

Udemy

Microsoft

Where you can get certified

Microsoft

How much the certification costs

$99

Google Cloud Associate Engineer Certification

Google’s Cloud Associate Engineer certification is geared more towards people with intermediate cloud skills. This certification is essential for most developers and software engineers as it will thoroughly test your Google Cloud skills - something every business needs.

In a 120-minute examination with multiple-response and multiple choice questions, Google examiners will test you on how competent you are in managing storage, security, access, and setting up cloud solutions. 

Course options

Coursera

Udemy

Cloud Academy

Where you can get certified

Google Cloud

How much the certification costs

$125

Google Professional Cloud Architect Certification

Getting certified as a Google Professional Cloud Architect is one of the best ways you can stay one step ahead of other candidates. With this certification, you’ll be able to apply for high-paying Google Cloud Architect jobs and reap the rewards of this lucrative career path. 

Google’s cloud architect certification will test your ability to design cloud architecture and manage cloud infrastructure. This 120-minute examination will also assess how well you can design and plan security and compliance infrastructure.

Course options

Simplilearn

Udemy

A Cloud Guru

Where you can get certified

Google Cloud

How much the certification costs

$200

How to choose the right cloud certification for you.

With so many cloud certifications, knowing what is suitable for your unique career goals, experience, and abilities can be challenging. 

Our advice? Take a look at the cloud platform that companies you’d like to work with use the most in your country or specific location. This can help you to narrow down your cloud certification options. 

You should also choose a cloud certification that fits in with your general interests, passions, and strengths. The more a cloud certification calls to you, the more likely it is that you will learn quickly and pass the exam. 

Let our cloud recruiters help you navigate your cloud career

With senior cloud architects demanding 6 figure salaries, cloud computing is definitely a career worth pursuing.  

Whether you’re just starting out your cloud career, or you’re already well established, working with an experienced cloud recruiter is the way to go. 

Our cloud recruitment consultants have the in-depth experience and knowledge to help you boost your career today. 

Register with RED to get started.