7 Free Cloud Computing Courses in 2025

Cloud computing refers to using hosted, internet-based services like servers, databases, and software systems. Having cloud computing skills can make you a desirable job candidate for a variety of career paths. If you're interested in learning more about this field, you may be wondering if there are any free cloud computing courses available online.

Keep reading as we take a closer look at some top free cloud computing certificate programs and courses available to the general public. We'll explore each of these programs and the platforms that offer them along with answering some commonly asked questions you may have.

Best Free Cloud Computing Courses

You can learn a lot about cloud technologies through free online courses and certificates. Let's talk about some of the top free online opportunities for those interested in improving their cloud skills.

1. Introduction to Mobile and Cloud Computing

Students can sign up for this free course through Alison. It takes about one and a half to three hours to complete and leads to an optional certificate you can purchase upon successfully passing the course assessment.

The course covers the history of mobile communication through cell phones, tablets, and related devices. It then delves deeper into the world of cloud computing and services like Yahoo and Facebook, which rely heavily on this technology. This is a great introductory course for anyone interested in learning more about these technologies and how hardware and software interact.

2. IBM: Introduction to Cloud Computing

This free, self-paced course is available through edX and offered by IBM. It takes about six to 12 hours of study time to complete; students can pay $49 for an optional certificate at the end of the course if desired.

The course covers a variety of introductory topics like cloud security, software as a service (SaaS), infrastructure as a service (IaaS), and platform as a service (PaaS). Students also gain insight into various deployment models, including hybrid cloud options, and will learn hands-on skills they can add to their resumes.

3. AWS Cloud Solutions Architect Professional Certificate

This certificate specialization is available on Coursera and allows students to enroll for free. It comprises a series of courses through Amazon Web Services that teach students the foundations of cloud architecture.

The program requires about 62 hours of total study time and allows students to study at their own pace. Upon completion of the program, students earn a certificate enabling them to pursue entry-level cloud architect positions.

4. Google Cloud Fundamentals: Core Infrastructure

This course gives students specific training on working with the Google Cloud Platform (GCP). The course contains a series of video tutorials, labs, and quizzes to help students learn about Google Cloud's storage and computing services and gain hands-on skills along the way.

The course takes about five hours to complete and is divided into nine segments. It is free to enroll in the course, and upon completion, you will receive a course badge.

5. Cloud Computing Basics (Cloud 101)

LearnQuest provides this flexible, beginner-level course through Coursera. It is broken into six modules and takes about eight hours of self-paced study to complete.

Students learn the basics of cloud computing, including APIs and services through Microsoft Azure. The course helps students develop a practical understanding of cloud infrastructure and services, ultimately helping them learn to identify which services best meet their needs.

6. Advanced Diploma in Cloud Computing for Amazon Web Services

This is an in-depth Alison course designed to teach learners practical skills for using AWS systems and services. Students gain actionable and marketable skills in automations and platforms such as Amazon Simple Storage Service, Amazon Machine Images, and the AWS Command Line Interface.

The course is free and provides an optional paid certificate upon successful completion. Though the course is self-paced, it takes about 20 to 30 hours of study time to work through its four modules.

7. Internet of Things and the Cloud

This Alison course provides an introduction to essential concepts relative to the internet of things (IoT). Students learn basic software development skills when they create and debug Universal Windows Platforms. They gain essential skills for entry-level IT professionals, allowing them to pursue career advancement.

The course is free to enroll in and offers an optional paid certificate once students successfully pass the assessment. Students study at their own pace but typically complete the course in under three hours.

What To Expect From Cloud Computing Courses

The training courses outlined above provide quality introductions to the world of cloud services and skills. Learners can gain in-demand knowledge in a variety of microservices that may help them pursue various career paths.

Most of the courses are self-paced and highly flexible, letting students study whenever they want to. They may cover a variety of topics ranging from cloud security and architecture to artificial intelligence and machine learning.

That said, free online courses in cloud computing do not provide the same advanced levels of training you would receive in a bachelor's degree program. If you are interested in pursuing a job as a cloud engineer, cloud architect, or a similar career path, you will need a more advanced level of education.

The information contained in free online courses is meant to give learners a solid foundation in real-world applications of cloud computing topics. While these courses can be beneficial for careers in data science, data analytics, and cybersecurity, they will not likely be sufficient education for these paths.

Benefits of Learning Cloud Computing Fundamentals for Beginners

Online cloud computing courses offer various benefits, starting with the fact that they are typically available free of charge. Students may need to pay for optional certificates at the end of the courses, but the courses themselves typically don't cost anything.

Students typically have the freedom to set their own study schedules, learning new skills and cloud computing concepts on their own time. They may gain basic skills in cloud deployment, using AWS services, and trends like DevOps, Serverless computing, and more.

Finally, students in these courses gain a fundamental understanding of how to use cloud computing platforms and skills in the workplace. This working knowledge of technical basics enables them to upskill in their current professions, potentially enabling them to pursue promotions or pay increases.

FAQs About Free Cloud Computing Courses

If you still have questions about taking free cloud computing courses online, keep reading. Below, we'll provide answers to some frequently asked questions you may be wondering about.

Where Can I Find Free Cloud Computing Courses With Certificates?

Many online platforms provide free courses and certificates in cloud computing, though there is sometimes a nominal fee to purchase a certificate after completing its associated course. Some of the most reliable platforms for finding these courses and certificates include Coursera, edX, and Google.

Who Is Eligible To Take Free Cloud Computing Courses?

Generally speaking, beginner-level courses are available to anyone who has an internet connection. Some more advanced courses may require prerequisites; in these cases, only learners who have completed the prerequisites will be eligible to take the courses.

Which Certification Is Best for Cloud Computing?

There are many good online certifications and courses for cloud computing; no one program is considered ''the best'' of what's available. You can find top-quality courses and certifications like the ones outlined above through online platforms like Alison and Coursera.

Discover Free Certificate Programs

If you're ready to learn more about cloud computing through an academic degree or certificate program, explore the schools featured on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the schools to learn more about the programs they offer and to find the right one for you.