Cloud Certification Roadmap 2026
From cloud beginner to job-ready skills
Cloud is not just “learn AWS”. You need core concepts (networking, security, cost), then a solid entry certification, and only after that you go deeper into architecture and operations. This roadmap gives you a practical order.
🟢 Level 0 — No IT basics
If you’re new to IT, don’t jump into cloud services menus. First, understand what a network is, what DNS does, and why security matters.
- IT basics (devices/OS)
- Basic networking (IP, DNS, routing)
- Basic security concepts
Goal: Be able to understand cloud services without guessing.
🟡 Level 1 — Cloud fundamentals (entry)
Start with one entry-level certification that explains cloud models, shared responsibility, basic services, and pricing.
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
Goal: Understand cloud concepts, pricing, identity basics, and core services.
🟠 Level 2 — Pick a vendor track (go deeper)
Choose ONE vendor to go deeper (AWS OR Azure OR Google Cloud). Depth beats scattered badges.
- AWS Solutions Architect (next step after Practitioner)
- Azure track after AZ-900
- Google Cloud fundamentals path
Goal: Build real skills: architecture patterns, storage, networking, IAM, and cost control.
🔴 Level 3 — Operations & multi-cloud (advanced)
After fundamentals, learn ops: deployment, monitoring, troubleshooting, governance, and multi-cloud basics.
- CompTIA Cloud+ (operations)
- Cloud security basics
- CI/CD & automation fundamentals
Goal: Become job-ready for cloud operations and real-world troubleshooting.
💰 Cloud salary outlook (2026)
Typical global ranges (highly dependent on country, experience, and company). Use this as orientation, not a promise.
Entry-level
$55k–$80k
Mid-level
$85k–$120k
Senior / Architect
$130k+
Disclaimer: ranges vary widely. Certifications help most when combined with labs, projects, and consistent practice.
🔍 AWS vs Azure vs Google Cloud — which one should you pick?
All are valuable. The best choice depends on your market and goals. The key: pick one and go deep first.
| One vendor (deep) | Many vendors (shallow) | |
|---|---|---|
| Learning speed | Faster progress | Slower progress |
| Job readiness | Stronger skills | More confusion |
| Best approach | Pick 1 → then expand | Don’t start here |
Recommendation
Start with Cloud Practitioner or AZ-900, then choose one vendor track to go deeper. Add multi-cloud later.
FAQ
Do I need networking before cloud?
You don’t need to be a network engineer, but you must understand IP/DNS/routing basics. Otherwise cloud stays confusing.
Is Cloud Practitioner useful in 2026?
Yes, as an entry point. It helps you learn the language of cloud and the pricing/security basics.
Should I do AWS and Azure together?
Not at the beginning. Start with one vendor track, build depth, then expand later.
What matters most for getting hired?
Certifications + hands-on labs + small projects (deployments, IAM setup, monitoring, cost review).
🚀 Start now (the practical way)
Read the roadmap once, then act. Start with an entry cloud quiz and practice consistently—skills beat planning.