Learn by Source
IBM · on edX

IBM: Introduction to Cloud Computing

Beginner 9 hours English Course CertificateFREE
Our recommendation
A broad, vendor-neutral IBM edX introduction to cloud computing — service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), deployment models (public, private, hybrid), core infrastructure, and emerging trends like microservices and serverless. A clear foundation for anyone who wants to understand cloud without committing to one provider first.

Good for: A vendor-neutral grounding in cloud-computing concepts.

Less suitable if: You want a specific provider (AWS/Azure/GCP) or hands-on skills.

Skills you'll gain

Cloud computingIaaS/PaaS/SaaSDeployment modelsServerlessMicroservicesInfrastructure

Is this course right for you?

A good fit if you…

You are new to cloud
You want the vendor-neutral concepts
You want a foundation before a provider

Consider something else if you…

You want a specific provider
You want hands-on skills
You already know cloud basics

Requirements: None.

Realistic time: A few weeks part-time.

About this course

A broad, vendor-neutral introduction to cloud computing: service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), deployment models (public, private, hybrid), core infrastructure (VMs, storage, networking, CDNs), emerging trends (microservices, serverless, DevOps, application modernization), and cloud security/monitoring basics. Includes a hands-on project deploying an application on IBM Cloud.

What you'll learn

Define cloud computing and explain its essential characteristics and business case
Describe cloud service models: IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS
Distinguish public, private, and hybrid cloud deployment models
Explain core cloud infrastructure components: VMs, storage, networking, CDNs
Identify cloud security, monitoring basics, and career paths in cloud computing

This course includes

9h
On-demand video
Yes
Certificate
Yes
Mobile access
English
Language

What it costs

You can audit the course free on edX. A verified certificate is a paid option, with financial assistance available.

Comparison · LBS

Compare alternatives for IBM: Introduction to Cloud Computing

Same topic, different options. We surface the trade-offs others hide so you can pick the course that actually fits your time, budget, and goals.
edX
IBM: Introduction to Cloud Computing
Price
Free
Audit free · earns an IBM digital skill badge (not a verified certificate)
Duration
9 hrs
Level
Beginner
Certificate
Course Certificate
Coursera4.8(34,000)
AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials
Price
Free
Audit free · Cert $49/mo
Duration
12 hrs
Level
Beginner
Certificate
Course Certificate
Compare →
Udemy4.7(290,374)
[NEW] Ultimate AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner CLF-C02 2026
Price
Paid
$79.99 one-time · 30-day money-back guarantee
Duration
14.5 hrs
Level
Beginner
Certificate
Course Certificate
Compare →
Udemy4.6(22,000)
Complete Linux Training Course to Get Your Dream IT Job
Price
Paid
One-time purchase, sales ~$15
Duration
29 hrs
Level
Beginner
Certificate
Course Certificate
Compare →
Prices & availability can change — confirm on the provider's site. We're not affiliated with any single provider.
Browse all Cloud courses Browse all edX courses

Is the certificate recognised?

A verified IBM certificate on edX is a credible learning record, though it is a course certificate rather than a formal qualification or degree.

Instructor

RA
Rav Ahuja
edX instructor

Rav Ahuja is IBM's Global Program Director for the IBM Skills Network, leading curriculum strategy for AI, data science, and cloud courses on edX.

About this provider

ED
edX
Non-profit online learning platform founded by Harvard and MIT. 45M+ learners worldwide.
Visit edX →

Frequently asked questions

No — it is deliberately vendor-neutral, covering the concepts before you pick AWS, Azure or GCP.
Yes — you can audit it free on edX; the verified certificate is a paid option.
Service models (IaaS/PaaS/SaaS), deployment models, core infrastructure, and trends like serverless.
No — it is a conceptual foundation rather than hands-on skills.
A few weeks part-time.
Free
to audit
Enroll now