Looking for the best Cloud Hosting for your business? Here we’ve enlisted top 7 advantages of Google Cloud Hosting so that you can make a right decision!
In today’s computing world, Virtualization means creating Virtual Storage Devices, Networks, and Computing Platforms. There are many solutions which completely follows the definition of Virtualization. Some of the solutions are Cloud Storage, Cloud Desktops, and Cloud Servers. A cloud server is based upon Virtualization.
So a Cloud Server is a virtual server that is remotely accessed from a Cloud Service Provider and to access this you require an infrastructure that is known as Cloud hosting. It is hosted on top and delivered on an on-demand basis.
An Introduction to Google Cloud Hosting
Cloud Hosting provided by Google is known as Google Cloud Hosting. Google provides Cloud Hosting free for the first 12 months with a free trial plan. After that, you can opt one of the available Google Cloud Hosting Pricing plans. You can also check Google Cloud Platform Pricing plans to avail the various services offered by Google.
If you are not looking to go with any of the Google Cloud Platform Pricing plan or Google Cloud Hosting Pricing plan, then you can also opt Google Cloud Free version i.e. Google Cloud Platform Free Tier. The Google Cloud Platform free tier provides the prospect to use and learn Google Cloud Free services.
Cloud Hosting Service Providers Comparison
There are many other platforms which provide Cloud Hosting service. Some that are at the top of the list are Google Cloud Hosting Platform, Amazon Web Services, and Microsoft Azure. So, now let’s discuss something about these platforms.
Amazon Web Services first came into the limelight in 2006. It offers various services with constant restructuring and amplifications where Microsoft introduced Azure in 2010. It also supports various services but has some complexities which should be removed. Google introduced Google Cloud Platform in 2011. It is a part of cloud computing services offered by Google. Anyone can access Google Cloud services through the public web or through a dedicated network connection. Like the Google trends shows, even after fluctuations, the interest of people in Google Cloud Hosting is now gradually increasing with the time due to its advantages over other hosting services.
On comparing AWS vs Azure vs Google Cloud, we found some of the interesting facts that you should also check.
1. In comparison to Google Cloud Platform vs AWS vs Microsoft Azure, Pricing is the key factor to look upon. Google Cloud Platform provides 12-month free trial service. After this period, a user can quit all the services if not required or can update if he/she wants to change the current plan. But in other platforms, Pricing is a bit high. They don’t allow the users to switch to other plans available in the platform.
In AWS, A user has to opt for hosting with an at least one-year plan and it can’t be changed or canceled if not required; while Google Cloud Platform gives this perk. A user can update the current plan easily and opt any of the other plans as per the requirement. Google Cloud Platform has a plan where they follow per second billing. It means if at any second, a user wants to stop the service, the services can be stopped. So for that moment, Google won’t raise any Pro Forma Invoice. If we talk about other platforms, this service is not available.
2. Another key factor which is more important while comparing Google Cloud Platform vs AWS vs Azure is Storage and Databases. In Google Cloud Platform, Google has provided a service which is Google Cloud Storage. It supports all kinds of databases whether it is SQL, MYSQL or any other. The advantage of using Google Cloud Storage is that it supports Big Data. It is used to store and access data which is localized along with the high availability. In Google Cloud Storage, you can also perform different operations with high performance. Google Cloud Storage allows users to store data in both Structured and Relational types.
Other platforms like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure, they don’t support both Structured and Relational Databases. They both provide temporary storage whereas in AWS once the instance is terminated, the storage will be deleted. They both don’t support SQL and MYSQL. Object Storage is available on all the three platforms. In AWS, Object Storage is present in terms of Block Storage. In Google Cloud Platform, Object Storage is available in terms of Google Cloud Storage. In Microsoft Azure, Object Storage is available in terms of Block Blobs and Files serve.
Are you aspired to make a career in Google Cloud Platform? Begin your Google Cloud career with this quick introduction to Google Cloud Platform.
Key Advantages of Using Google Cloud Hosting
After comparing Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, and Google Cloud Platform, We recommend using Google Cloud Platform Services. There are some key advantages of using Google Cloud Hosting which we would like to discuss here.
1. Better Pricing Plans Availability
Economically, Google Cloud Hosting Plans are cheaper than other Platforms Hosting Plans. It has better pricing plans as compared to its competitors. Google Cloud Hosting service has per sec billing plans. To avail this service, users just need to sign up with all the details required. He/she just requires a credit card or bank details. The main advantage of Google Cloud Hosting is that the user is not bounded by its subscription if he/she has subscribed to any of the pricing plans. The subscription can be stopped at any instance. If you are looking for better offers, you can switch your subscription to other plans.
Whereas in Azure, only 5% discount is available for 12 months to pre-pay. In Google Cloud Hosting plans, no upfront cost is required; it means you don’t have to pre-pay. You can also grab the trial version which is available for free. Earlier, AWS had much higher pricing plans but they revised their plans in November 2016. After comparing Google Cloud Hosting and other platforms pricing plans, Google is giving a decent discount on its all services which is also attracting the users to adopt Google Cloud Hosting services. Google Cloud Hosting monthly plans are much cheaper than AWS plans.
2. Enhanced Execution
At enterprises level, Google has enhanced the performance of Google Cloud Hosting service. An individual can access the data from any location via remote. It has a big infrastructure so it allows executing various complex operations easily at its network. Google Cloud Machines can handle n number of visitors at any time. If you are planning to move to the Google Cloud Hosting, then you will experience the decrease in your website load time.
3. Benefits of Live Migration
One of the top advantages of Google Cloud Hosting is “Live Migration”. It is also the biggest advantage because Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure both don’t provide this benefit. It merely consists of migration of Virtual Machines. By having such a large network, Google Cloud Hosting allows users to migrate their machines.
4. Private Network
Users get maximum time and efficiency due to the private network. A private network means Google is providing its own network to every customer so that they have more control and scalability over the network. Private Network is the backbone of Google Cloud Hosting service. When it comes to fiber-optic cables, these are more efficient than any other cables. Google has used fiber-optics to spread its network. The network via fiber-optics can bear any amount of traffic.
5. Commitment to Constant Development
As we already know, Google Cloud Hosting is also a part of Google Cloud Platform. It also contains a large infrastructure which is a public domain. Google is also developing its infrastructure rapidly according to the customer’s requirements. In near future, we will see the Google Infrastructure expansion to the new locations. This will help to build a strong Google’s network. Currently, Google is present at 17 locations. The new Google Cloud Platform regions will be Hong Kong in 2018 and Zurich, Switzerland in 2019.
6. Control and SecurityGoogle has its own security model which is currently securing Gmail, YouTube and other products. Google has recruited a large number of Security Professionals who help Google to protect the data on servers. All the data on Cloud Platform Services is encrypted. Google has a strong network of ISPs, It helps Google to secure their network. Google is also making the process-based investment to secure its network or data.
7. Redundant Backups
Redundancy means if something is no longer required, it can be reduced. Google has its own in-built redundant backups. If some part of a component is not functioning, then Google will create a backup. This means you are storing your data in different locations (minimum two locations). In case, something happens, users won’t lose their data. Redundancy helps to ensure data integrity, It also ensures reliability and durability.
Final Words
So, there are many advantages of using Google Cloud Hosting services which are eventually a part of the Google Cloud Platform. Above mentioned seven advantages (Better Pricing Plans Availability, Enhanced Execution, Benefits of Live Migration, Private Network, Commitment to Constant Development, Control and Security, and Redundant Backups) makes Google Cloud Hosting a good choice. There are different pricing plans which are cheaper than other Platforms available in the computing world.
Latency was also the issue for other platforms but Google has worked on it. When it comes to latency, Google Cloud Platform has less latency as compared to others. Live Migration of Virtual Machines is also a key feature which is not present on other platforms. When it comes to flexibility, control, security, development, and enhancements, Google Cloud Hosting is better than any other platform.
Google Cloud Platform if offering a number of services along with the hosting. With the growth of GCP in the cloud market, the demand for Google Cloud experts is increasing at a faster rate. The certification can add more value to your resume by adding a validating credential. Whizlabs, with the aim to help the candidates to have a bright career bring Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect practice tests. The practice tests will help you pass the certification exam and become a Certified Google Cloud Architect.
As this blog is about the Google Cloud Architect exam preparation, we will have our focus on how to prepare to become a Google Certiifed Professional Cloud Architect. Let’s start with the detailed description of the exam!
Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect Exam
Are you working on Google Cloud Platform? Do you want to validate your skills to work on Google Cloud technologies? Professional Google Cloud Certification exam is the answer! Yes, Google Cloud Architect certification exam is intended for the cloud professionals having significant knowledge and experience of working on Google Cloud technologies.
The professional Google Cloud certification is for those who want to validate and demonstrate their skills in developing, designing, and managing highly scalable, secure, available, dynamic and robust, applications on the Google Cloud Platform.
What are the benefits of Google Cloud Architect certification exam?
If you are preparing for the Google Cloud Architect certification exam then it is required to understand the importance of this exam first. Before proceeding to the Google Cloud Architect exam preparation, let’s get understand the benefits that the Google Cloud Architect certification exam adds to your career. Let’s have a look –
- Validates your skills of developing, designing, administrating, and managing solutions using Google Cloud technologies
- Adds a credential to your resume and makes you stand out of the crowd
- Globally provides you a recognition of Google Cloud Certified Professional Architect
- Demonstrates your working knowledge of Google Cloud Platform
- Helps you get better job opportunities and makes you eligible for the higher position
- Results in overall improved performance and capabilities as Cloud Architect
According to the Salary Report by Indeed.com, a certified Google Cloud Architect earns an average salary of $164,000.
Overview of Google Cloud Architect certification exam
Before moving to the Google Cloud Architect exam preparation, it is important to understand the exam structure and format very well. Here is an overview of the Google Cloud Architect certification –
Who can apply for the Google Cloud Architect certification exam?
Although Google Cloud Architect certification exam is not limited to any particular role yet it is considered that it is mainly intended for –
- Solutions/ Enterprise Architects
- Members of the Operations Team
- System Administrators
- Fresh Graduates Who Want to Build Career as Cloud Architect
Google Cloud Architect Certification Exam Objectives
To start the exam preparation, it is highly recommendable to understand the exam objectives. Google has divided the exam syllabus into various sections and then subject areas. Let’s understand the topics that are covered in the exam and you need to focus upon them to pass the Google Cloud Architect certification exam.
Section | Subject Areas |
| 1. Plan and Design a Cloud Solution Architecture |
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| 2. Provision and Manage Solution Infrastructure |
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| 3. Compliance and Security Design |
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| 4. Analyze and Optimize business and technical processes |
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| 5. Implementation Management |
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| 6. Ensure the reliability of solution and operations |
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How to Apply for Google Cloud Architect certification exam?
So, now you have received all the information about Google Cloud Architect certification exam. If you are determined enough to go for this exam and become a certified Google Cloud Architect, then it’s the time to register for the exam and go ahead for the preparation. Here are the steps to apply for the Google Cloud Architect certification exam:
- Go to the Google Cloud Webassessor website and create an account.
- Check the catalog and register for the exam you want to apply for.
- Choose the exam center i.e. Kryterion Testing Centre.
- Schedule exam data and exam time.
- One of the first things that anyone going for this certification needs to understand is that getting this certification does not automatically guarantee you a job. Sure, having Google’s reputation behind your credentials will help you to have a degree, but at the end, it will be your talent that gets you the position.
- Since the certification is renewed after every 2 years, it is important to ensure that you keep yourself up to date with the latest information in the field of Cloud architecture, as the next time you sit for the exam, the curriculum could have changed on the basis of market and technology trends.
- The reason this exam is in a multiple choice format is that it is designed to test the general knowledge of the candidate in the field of cloud computing and architecture. It is not, however, designed to access the depth of your knowledge, so even if you don’t have a lot of experience in this field, it is still something that you can pursue without hesitation.
- Owing to the general nature of the assessment, it is also important to note that you will only receive a pass or fail grade for the exam. Candidates should not expect feedback on their attempt itself, or any specific information regarding areas they were weak/strong in.
- Since the Google Cloud Platform supports a host of programming languages, such as Java, .Net, Node, PHP, Python, Ruby etc. it becomes easier for programmers to understand and prepare for the exam, even if they know only one or two of the above-mentioned languages.
- Experience of working on the Google Cloud Platform in itself is a great way to familiarize yourself with what is expected. So it never hurts to experiment on the platform, even if it is just to get yourself acquainted with where and how different functions can be accessed and executed.
- In addition to the Google Cloud Architect practice exam, there are also Beta Examinations that pop up for a short period before the final exams. These are also the paid exams but come at a discounted price. The whole purpose is to gather performance statistics on the questions and use these statistics to create the certification standards for the final exams. However, if you pass them, you are still considered certified, without even taking the final exam. The thing to consider though is that even though they are cheaper, they are still longer than the final exams which can be a hurdle for some and opportunity for others.
Step by Step Guide for Google Cloud Architect Exam Preparation
Knowing the dynamic nature of the Google Cloud Architect Certification Exam, as well as the field in question, it is important to have an equally dynamic strategy for Google Cloud Architect exam preparation. This means combining various online and offline learning techniques to get a proper grasp of the subject matters equally. Thankfully, Google understands this need and has prepared various avenues that you can use for your Google Cloud Architect exam preparation. Some of them are:
1. Start with the Exam Guide
Google is easily the biggest repository of knowledge in the world today. So it makes sense that they have all the data on Cloud Computing and Architecture that you can wish for. They have helpfully filtered all the relevant information and created a special Exam Guide for the Cloud. This guide is available for free to anyone interested and offers an outline of the topics that may appear on the exam.
It is an important resource for Google Cloud Architect exam preparation It also includes different case studies that offer a glimpse of how you can use this certification in real life, only using a fake business and solution concept. Some of the questions on the exam may even be pulled directly from one of these case studies, so it is wise to review them as a part of your preparation.
2. Study the Documentation
While the exam guide gives you an overview of the entire syllabus of the Google Cloud Architect certification exam, the documentation page focuses solely on the Google Cloud Platform itself. Unlike the guide, this goes in depth about the concepts and critical components of GCP; thus becomes more valuable for your Google Cloud Architect exam preparation. Once you go through it properly, you will have a far better idea of exactly what you can accomplish with this platform.
In addition to the platform, you also get a look at all the services for computing, storage, networking, big data, machine learning, operations and more that are already up and running with GCP as a base. Since you might end up working on one or more of these services during the course of your career as a Google Cloud Architect, it is in your best interest to know everything possible about these services.
3. Learn about Google Cloud Solutions
In addition to understanding the services, it is also important for any Google Cloud Professional to understand whom the services benefit. This is where the Solutions section comes in, which gives you an overview of these services from the perspective of a client/customer.
This will help you understand what are the client’s needs, how will they achieve them to the help of GCP and most importantly, what are the areas that can be improved further with solutions that clients haven’t even thought of yet? When you have an understanding of both sides of the equation, you will be able to envision and create truly integrated systems; a skill that will help you on a daily basis, not just for passing the certification.
4. Take the Training Courses
Google understands that not all people prefer to do self-learning. Often it takes a hands-on approach from a real trainer to help them grasp the topic in a satisfactory manner. Which is why, they arrange a variety of offline training classes, where you can freshen up on the topics and clear any/all the doubts. It is a great way to deal with the stress of Google Cloud Architect exam preparation.
These classes can be as small as a single day to an entire week-long engagement. As with any class, you will have to keep track of when and where they are available so you can get yourself up to speed and learn all the best practices. You still have the option of revising what you learned in the class online, which is a great way of ensuring that what has been learned is not forgotten that easily.
5. Practice with Labs
Practical experience often sticks for far longer in our memory as compared to just theoretical study. This is even truer for virtual applications as there isn’t any tangible set of steps that you can commit to physical memory. This is why, Google offers a series of carefully crafted laboratory environments, where you can work with real-life Google Cloud technologies and experience how they work firsthand.
These virtual labs offer you a chance to pick your own pace when it comes to learning and at the same time provide a safe place to experiment where your mistakes don’t have real-life consequences. In addition to full-fledged cloud labs, there are also smaller, more specific Codelabs that guide you through the coding process itself, so you can learn how to implement smaller elements and commands on your own. They are a great way of practicing what you have learned and helps you in Google Cloud Architect exam preparation to receive the certification.
6. Personal Experience
Unless you are just starting out in the field of cloud computing, it is given that any individual attempting this certification will have some level of experience in this field. Even if the experience is in other aspects of computing, it is a surety that whatever amount of knowledge you possess can be quite valuable in navigating this challenge. After all, underneath the unconventional hardware setup, it is still a computing system, and those who know how to handle them will surely be able to work their way around Cloud Architecture.
Besides, there are a lot of things that you can just pick up during the day to day work that you often might not find in books and guides. This is why we put a premium on your own work experience as well as the resources that you might have gathered along the way. So, before you start anything new, always revise where you have been and what you have done.
7. Test Yourself
Practice tests are an integral part of any exam preparation. No matter what is the subject, you will always find the need to go through a few mock tests before you have complete confidence in what you have learned. It helps you familiarize yourself with the type of questions that will be on the exam. At the same time, it will also be a check of how ready you are to take the exam, not only in terms of accuracy but also speed. This is a very valuable skill to hone, especially when it comes to the Google Cloud Architect exam that comes with a strict time limit.
Online Resources for the Preparation of Google Cloud Architect Certification Exam
As we have mentioned above, Google itself offers a host of resources to help people learn more about their Google Cloud Platform. They do so for free, as it is in their best interest to train more and more people that will eventually help their cloud architecture community grow strong.
In addition to general study materials, Google also provides various blogs, podcasts, and videos pertaining to Cloud Computing, so that people who are interested in this field are able to keep up with the latest developments. There are other third-party resources as well, but you will notice that a majority of their information has been taken from Google itself. Here are all the resources, both Google and third party, for your perusal.
1. Google Exam Guide
I’m mentioning this twice since it is one of the first things that you need to go through before moving to anything else for Google Cloud Architect exam preparation. The guide not only lists the syllabus but also features different Case Studies that can come in handy for the Google Cloud Architect exam Preparation.
2. Google Cloud Platform Documentation
This is the second thing that you must study, right after the exam guide which plays an important role in Google Cloud Architect exam preparation. It will help you understand all the aspects of the Google Cloud Platform from a developer’s perspective. It will also be instrumental in helping you decide which real-world application would you want to work with based on GCP, once your certification is done.
3. Google Cloud Solutions Reference Guide
This is a straightforward reference guide for everything that can be accomplished using Google Cloud Platform. It not only details the services but also states the way to get said services up and running in simple steps. A unique feature of this guide is that it also lists various companies that partner with Google Cloud to create and run them. This way, by the time you finish your study of the material, you will have a working knowledge of all the big and small players involved in the industry.
4. Offline Classes
If you have trouble understanding the concepts mentioned in the notes, you can always go for physical classes where you will be taught these concepts the old-fashioned way. It is a great tool for Google Cloud Architect exam preparation for those who either don’t like studying online or simply require hands-on guidance.
5. Online Classes
For people who have no such qualms about using online resources, all of these courses are also available on demand at online portals. These certification training providers feature different programs created by the team behind Google Cloud. They offer different courses with complete video lectures and notes, all for free.
With these online resources, you can learn from any part of the globe, as long as you have a stable internet connection. It is an important resource for Google cloud Architect exam preparation for the working professionals who don’t have much time for the preparation.
6. Google Cloud Platform Blog
The cloud is constantly changing, so are the rules that govern it. With new technologies and ever-changing political policies, it is hard to keep up with the latest developments in the field, unless you have a dedicated source of information that can be trusted. The Cloud Platform blog by Google is one such place.
Their writers cover various aspects of the industry, including but not limited to product/service launches, cloud updates, industry updates, opinions on long and short trends and much more. By going through this blog on a regular basis, you will keep on getting the latest information whenever you decide to attempt the exam.
7. Google Cloud Platform Podcast
Podcasts, in generic terms, can be called blogs for drivers. It might be a weird concept to imagine, but for the millions of commuters that end up spending hours on a daily basis in traffic, this is a great way to learn on the go.
Google’s Cloud Platform podcast features various topics related to the industry, discussed between industry professionals, who can give honest and on the spot opinions on a platform that is designed to reach their peers. If you want to learn from them, then you better start listening.
8. Google Cloud Next
Google Cloud Next is the ultimate location for interactions between cloud computing professionals. It features multiple day long boot camps with experienced industry leaders where you get a chance to learn about the latest developments and techniques.
Even if you are not able to physically attend these events, you can still listen and learn from the speakers, thanks to Google’s comprehensive archive. It is definitely a must watch resource for your Google Cloud Architect exam preparation.
9. Google QwikLabs
Google QwikLabs is a dream come true for any student of cloud computing who wants to move on to practical work. These labs are designed to cover different topics and applications, which are taught using real Google Cloud software and tools. It is a great way to revise everything you know while learning everything that isn’t covered in the Google Cloud Architect exam syllabus.
10. Google CodeLabs
Google Developers Codelabs are just like QwikLabs, with the only difference that where QwikLabs use cloud tools, the Codelabs use coding. The concept is to provide a guided, hands-on coding experience that guides you through the process of building a small application, or adding a new feature to an existing application.
These applications can be designed to integrate cloud computing from the start, or it can be an add-on feature for existing code. This practice will come in handy even after the certification is done, as you will be able to integrate various services on to different platforms with ease.
11. Mock Tests
Mock tests are easily the oldest staple of exam preparation in the world. They offer you a chance to test your skills before you actually give the real exam. Google understands their importance, which is why they have their own Google Cloud Architect Certification Sample Papers. However, they aren’t the only game in town, as services like Whizlabs offers both free and paid practice tests for the Google Cloud Architect exam preparation.
So, these are the resources that will prove important milestones in your journey of the Google Cloud Architect certification exam preparation.
Books for the Google Cloud Architect Exam Preparation
So far, we have focused on everything that Google has to say about Google Cloud Architect certification. However, there are certain books that offer their own take on Google’s way of approaching cloud computing. Let’s have a look at the best books that may help you in your Google Cloud Architect exam preparation.
1. Google Cloud Platform for Architects by Vitthal Srinivasan, Judy Raj, Janani Ravi
Google Cloud Platform for Architects book is aimed to help the cloud professionals to learn and use Google Cloud Platform with high competency and confidence as well. This book enables you to understand the form of cloud architecture and thus helps you to become a professional cloud architect. By reading this book, you will also learn the procedure of configuration and usage of the cloud services.
You will also get to know and understand the situations where you could use Google Cloud services which is very important in the Google Cloud Architect exam preparation. And by the end of this book, you will have enough knowledge to work on the Google Cloud Platform.
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