Cloud Computing Concept Explained

Cloud computing in Malaysia.

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What is Cloud Computing?

Are you familiar with iCloud or Google Drive? Those are services where you are able to store your information on the internet. Those are examples of services provided in the cloud computing sectors.

Cloud computing is a branch of the cyber world that focuses on computing services such as providing servers, storage (like Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox, etc.), database, analytics, networking, software, and intelligence with one major difference:

It’s in the clouds!

What is a cloud, then?

In this context, these clouds refer to the internet, where instead of doing all the processes mentioned in the examples above using one’s own physical computer, you let them ‘float’ around on the internet!

Is Cloud Computing a ‘big thing’ now?

It’s not big - it’s HUGE!

Technology, as we know it today, is growing so fast that sometimes companies can’t afford to keep upgrading their computers and facilities just to handle the sheer amount of data and processes.

To handle that issue, they pay these companies that provide cloud computing services to handle these tasks.

Fun fact: the United States government paid Amazon USD 10 billion to manage their data through cloud computing!

Major fields in Cloud Computing

1. Advanced Database Systems

In this field, the focus would mainly be on developing technical skills and familiarising yourselves with database management techniques.

You will frequently encounter database management software such as Structured Query Language (SQL), which will assist you to organise your databases which may contain millions of data in a way that won't lead you to burnout.

2. Computer Systems Management

This field teaches you how to properly manage a system within a network or database, which normally would then be delivered to your client.

In this field, you will learn how to look into IT system requirements of a certain service, acquire system or software, maintain the equipment, monitor system performance, and many more.

3. Information Storage & Management

This field mainly focuses on developing your skills in managing and storing information.

It may sound easy, but in practice, there are millions of data that you must deal with.

In addition to that, you will have to juggle between the physical aspect of it - such as knowing when to upgrade your hardware & what hardware to purchase; as well as knowing the digital aspect of it, such as knowing how and where to store the data for easy accessibility.

4. Cloud Security

This field may overlap with the other fields mentioned before. However, in itself, this field mainly focuses on securing the whole 'cloud' infrastructure.

As mentioned before, the United States government paid Amazon billions of dollars to house their data,and just like any other clients, they can't afford to have their data leaked or hacked!

This is why this field is very important. Imagine building a house with top-notch decorations, high-quality materials, and excellent furnishing - but the gates and doors can easily be pried open.

Just like you want to keep your personal home safe, you must also ensure the system you are providing your client with is safe and secure, or else your company may face hefty court claims!

What subjects are taught in Cloud Computing?

Students studying cloud computing.

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Subjects may vary according to institutions, however, here is an example to provide you with insights into what you may expect later:

Computer Architecture
Fundamentals of Operating System
Graphic Animation
Information Security and Ethics
Introduction to Data Analytics
Introduction to Database Systems
IT Infrastructure Landscape
Mathematics for Computing
Object-Oriented Programming
Programming Techniques
Systems Analysis and Design
Computer Communication & Networks
Data Structures & Algorithms
IT Project Management
Quantitative Methods
Software Engineering
System Development Tools and Techniques
Cloud Computing Architecture & Deployment Model
Introduction to Cloud Computing & Virtualization
Advance Programming Paradigm
Artificial Intelligence
Project I
Project II
UX Design
Web Programming with PHP
Backup and Disaster Recovery
Cloud Security
Mobile Application Development using Android

A few terms that you will need to know

While cruising through the course, there are a few terms that you will encounter and be familiarised with, among them are:

Hybrid cloud: a combination of public cloud services with a private cloud platform. They are usually connected through an encrypted network.

Infrastructure as a service: a cloud platform that links hardware systems through the Internet; another name for this is “hardware as a service.” This is where users usually outsource tasks that would be burdensome to their own hardware to these cloud platforms.

Multitenancy: software that allows multiple users to access and use the software from different locations.

Platform as a service: providing a 'virtual platform' for users to run, manage, and develop web applications.

Software as a service: this is where software is stored at the provider's data centre instead of the user's computer and users can access this software from afar. Example: Canva, Microsoft 365 & Trello.

Third-party data centrer: a data centre service where users can free their minds off maintaining its infrastructure. One of the usual names in this service is Amazon which houses United States government data.

What are the skills and characteristics needed in Cloud Computing?

1. Critical Thinking

In this course, you will have to learn how to apply the knowledge you have learned critically.

Sometimes the issues you face in real life might require you to do a few brain gymnastics, make sure to stretch those ‘brain muscles’ first!

2. Fast-learner

The digital world is changing every second - as you are reading this article, there is probably something new in the field found somewhere.

You will have to keep up with all the changes to stay on top of your game and to keep yourself informed on the new and coming changes in the industry.

3. Team Player

Computing is not a one-man show. Even the internet we know today is a product of thousands or millions of hands working over the same goal - to improve the internet.

Do explore social media platforms like Reddit, Twitter, or online forums to gain insights into the industry. Interestingly, these platforms are full of helpful people who are willing to teach you from scratch.

4. Prudent With Digital Technology and Software

If you are thinking of venturing into the cloud computing field, this set of skills is not something that you can compromise with.

To ace this field, you will need to be able to know how to use various software, especially those that deal with programming tasks and database management.

5. Programming Skills

Programming is something that is so crucial to the world of computing as a whole - it is almost as important as writing is to studying English literature.

Here, you will have to familiarise yourself with software like Python and programming languages like PHP.

However, career-wise, if you are keen on joining the cloud computing industry, it is not always necessary for you to be a good programmer, but being one will definitely put you ahead of the competition.

Cloud Computing programmes in Malaysia

Lecture hall.

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Thinking of studying cloud computing but don’t know where to look? Don’t worry we got you!

INTI College

Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) major in Cloud Computing

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)

BSc (Hons) in Information Technology - Cloud Computing Specialisation
Doctor of Philosophy in Computing - Research in Cloud Computing

Sunway University

BSc (Hons) in Computer Science

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Master of Philosophy (Computer Science)
Doctor of Philosophy (Computer Science)

University Malaysia of Computer Science and Engineering

Master In Computing - Research in Cloud Computing
Doctor Of Philosophy (Computing) - Research in Cloud Computing

Universiti Teknologi Mara (UITM)

Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons.) Netcentric Computing

Salary outlook for fresh graduates

There are a few paths for fresh graduates in cloud computing to explore, among them are:

Cloud Solution Architects: RM 9,000 - RM 14,400
Cloud System Administration: RM 3,400 - RM 5,100
Cloud Security Analyst: RM 2,400 - RM 8,900
Cloud Application Development/Maintenance/Testing: RM 5,160 - RM 10,000
Data Migration & Modernization: RM 8,300 - RM 9,500
Cloud Project Management: RM 5,000 - RM 8,000

How long is the duration of studies for Cloud Computing in Malaysia?

Hourglass.

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Bachelor’s Degree: 3-3.5 Years
Master’s Degree: 2-4 Years
Doctor of Philosophy: 3-6 Years

How much are the tuition fees to study Cloud Computing in Malaysia?

Jar with coins.

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Bachelor’s Degree: RM 1,400 - RM 88,200
Master’s Degree: RM 9,500 - RM 25,600
Doctor of Philosophy: RM 18,350 - RM 48,600

What are the entry requirements?

Curious to know if you are a perfect fit for cloud computing? Here are the (usual) requirements - but do note that they may differ according to institutions.

Bachelor’s Degree

Foundation

Completion of Foundation Programme in relevant fields.
Credit in SPM for Add Maths or Maths.
Credit in SPM for either Science, Technology, or Engineering Subjects.

Diploma

Diploma in Computer Science, Information Systems, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Science/Technology or equivalent.
Credit in SPM for Add Maths or equivalent.

A-Level

Credit in SPM for Add Maths or Maths.
Credit in either Science, Technology or Engineering subjects.

STPM

Pass STPM’s science stream or equivalent in Maths and Science, or ICT subject.
Credit in SPM for Add Maths or Maths.
Credit in either Science, Technology or Engineering subjects.

UEC

5Bs (including Additional Mathematics).

CPU

5 passes.
Credit in Mathematics at SPM level and Add Maths in SPM or equivalent.

TEE

5 passes.
Credit in Add Maths in SPM or O-Level.

SAM

5 passes with TER of 55.
Credit in Add Maths in SPM or equivalent.

NSW (HSC)

10 units with ATAR of 55 (not less than 50 points for each subject).
Credit in Add Maths in SPM or O-Level.

Language

SPM English B3 or B+
O-Level English Credit
IELTS or equivalent 6.0
MUET Band 4

Master’s Degree

Bachelor’s Degree

A Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field with good honours recognised by the institution; or
Qualification equivalent to a Bachelor’s Degree and experience in the relevant field recognised by the institution.
Some require a CGPA of 2.5 or higher.

Language