Salary, Job Description, How To Become One, and Quiz
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Cloud Architects
Cloud Architects design and implement cloud computing solutions. They are often hired to transition from local data storage to a cloud computing infrastructure.
Table of contents
Cloud Architects are responsible for bringing IT projects to the cloud. Before the rise of cloud computing, companies relied more heavily on local area networks (LANs) to store data and run essential applications. Cloud computing helped reduce onsite IT requirements, resulting in cost savings and more efficient IT solutions. However, implementing existing IT components with the cloud also created the need for specialized IT professionals.
Cloud Architects bridge the gap between cloud networks, the internet, and LANs. They ensure that everything works together to meet the needs of the employer or client, which involves a lot of different responsibilities.
What they do
Cloud Architects design and implement cloud computing solutions. They are often hired to transition from local data storage to a cloud computing infrastructure.
Develop Cloud Architecture for Existing Systems
The main job of a Cloud Architect is to develop the interface and processes needed to move existing IT systems and components to the cloud. The most common use of cloud computing is data storage. A Cloud Architect may develop the architecture needed for local software or workstations to access data from the cloud instead of local servers.
The Cloud Architect needs to assess the current technologies and systems used by the organization to determine the best practices for moving data and resources to the cloud. If the company has not already adopted a cloud strategy, the Cloud Architect may work with a team of IT professionals to develop the new architecture and plan the logistics of deploying it.
Deploying new cloud architecture may require the IT department to shut down onsite workstations and equipment, preventing normal business operations from continuing. One of the responsibilities of this job is minimizing the disruption caused by the deployment process. This may involve scheduling the transfer of data at night or focusing on one area of the organization at a time.
Modify Existing Applications or Develop New Ones
Some applications may not automatically work with a cloud computing solution, requiring the Cloud Architect to work with an IT team to develop a workaround. They may develop a patch that facilitates communication with cloud servers. They may also develop an entirely new application.
The goal of the Cloud Architect is to ensure that existing systems and processes continue to operate after migrating data or resources to the cloud. For example, applications that rely on local resources may experience slower performance when receiving data through the Internet. Cloud Architects find ways to resolve these issues to maximize the benefits of adopting a cloud strategy.
Analyze Potential Security Risks with Cloud Computing
Before moving data from local servers to the cloud, companies need to consider the potential security risks. Cloud Architects may assess the security concerns and determine the best solutions for protecting against potential hacks or viruses.
Analyzing and dealing with security risks often requires collaboration with networking experts, such as Network Engineers and Network Security Officers. Some of the risks include hackers attempting to access data as it is being transferred to or from the cloud or the insertion of malware during the transmission.
Assess the Performance of Cloud Computing Systems
Cloud Architects look for bottlenecks in the performance of the network. Transferring data from the cloud may take more time compared to accessing local data. If the transfer rates become too high, workers may experience lag or technical issues with their workstations.
To assess the performance of cloud computing systems, Cloud Architects may run tests or analyze logs and error reports. If they detect issues that impact the performance of the network, Cloud Architects may need to revise the IT architecture or develop new solutions.
What is the job like
Pros
You May Find New Job Opportunities
Cloud Architects develop skills and knowledge that can be applied to a wide range of IT jobs, including Network Engineer and IT Project Manager.
You Get to Help Make Businesses More Efficient
Moving data to the cloud can increase the efficiency of certain business practices, which can help make your work more satisfying.
You Get to Focus on One Project at a Time
Cloud Architects rarely need to multitask, as they tend to focus on a single project at a time.
You May Look for Work in Any Industry
Almost every industry needs Cloud Architects, giving you the chance to work just about anywhere.
Cons
Cloud Architects Have a Lot of Responsibility
The responsibility of this job may be stressful at times, as an entire organization may depend on your cloud solutions.
You May Receive Criticism for Performance Issues
When a cloud solution impacts the performance of existing systems, employees are likely to send most of the blame to the Cloud Architect.
Where they work
Cloud Architects often work for IT services providers that design networking solutions for other companies. Cloud Architects are also employed by larger tech companies, as they are more likely to rely on the cloud for data management. Some Cloud Architects work in the healthcare industry, helping to migrate data from large healthcare systems to the cloud. The automotive, finance, legal, insurance, and telecommunications industries also hire Cloud Architects as part of their increased use of cloud computing.
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How to become one
Step 1: Study Computers in High School
Aspiring Cloud Architects should study computers in high school. Students may also start practicing programming skills, which may help increase their comprehension of IT topics in college.
Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Cloud Architects typically need a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related field of study.
Step 3: Think About Getting a Master’s Degree
A Master’s degree is not a requirement, but it may lead to greater job prospects. A graduate degree is more common for those who seek managerial positions.
Step 4: Earn Cloud Certifications
Most employers will want Cloud Architects to be certified in the cloud technology that they work with, which may include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud.
Step 5: Look for Entry-Level Work
Cloud Architects may need to start in smaller roles, such as Network Administrator or Database Administrator. The largest cloud providers, including AWS, Microsoft, and Google, also hire entry-level Cloud Architects.
Should you become one
Best personality type for this career
People with this personality likes to work with ideas that require an extensive amount of thinking. They prefer work that requires them to solve problems mentally.
You can read more about these career personality types here.
Cloud Architects often have logical problem-solving skills, as developing cloud architecture requires a logical approach. Cloud Architects are also often detail-oriented individuals, as they need to pay attention to a variety of information when designing or testing IT systems. Working in this field also requires good interpersonal skills, as you are likely to collaborate with a variety of individuals on most projects. Strong organizational skills are also recommended for staying on track when completing a project.
Take this quiz to see if this is the right career for you.
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