10 Must-Read Books on Cloud Computing

Cloud Computing can be called one of the main technologies of transition, revolutionizing our perception of IT resources and services. So whether you are a starter or a specialized professional, there are so many books for you to gain knowledge in cloud computing through different specters. Here we list ten must-read books that cover the foundation, and advanced topics, and apply the science of cloud computing.

1. Explain the Cloud Like I'm 10 by Todd Koff 

Explain the Cloud Like I'm 10 by Todd Koff is an excellent book for anyone looking for the first time at cloud computing or needs a rehash. Published in 2017, this book uses simple words and graphics to explain complex ideas around cloud concepts, starting with basic definitions and progressing through many aspects of cloud service models, like IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS. 

Koff also talks about cloud providers, AWS, Azure, and GCP. Further, this book explores advanced things like cloud economics and education. Any individual who is seeking an extremely concise and streamlined overview of the cloud will love this book.

2. The Basics of Cloud Computing: Understanding the Fundamentals of Cloud Computing in Theory and Practice by Derrick Rountree and Ileana Castrillo

To attain better knowledge regarding cloud computing, Derrick Rountree and Ileana Castrillo's The Basics of Cloud Computing remain at the top. It is published in the year 2013. The book clearly explains developing an all-around knowledge about cloud computing from the beginners level. The authors have explained the deployment models in clouds, service models, and challenges involved in implementing the cloud solutions in the organization. This book will be of great value to beginners and intermediate users, with practical insight into the adoption of cloud technologies.

3. Cloud Computing For Dummies by Judith Hurwitz, Robin Bloor, Marcia Kaufman, and Fern Halper

This is one of the books in the wonderful "For Dummies" series. Cloud Computing For Dummies is an easier-to-understand book about cloud computing. This book on concepts of cloud computing brings about some easily manageable chunks, breaking down explanations regarding virtualization and cloud services, as well as security. The step-by-step approach, with practical information, makes the content perfectly suitable for readers who may have little or no understanding of cloud computing. The book focuses on green IT practices and how cloud computing can benefit an organization in plain terms.

4. AWS: The Complete Beginner's Guide by Stephen Baron

The latest edition in this field of study is Stephen Baron's 2020 AWS is a Beginner's Guide, which employs one of the most popular cloud providers, namely, Amazon Web Services, or AWS. The book gives a general overview of the fundamental AWS services.

How to master various layers and use related services such as Amazon S3, Amazon Glacier, and more. The book will guide someone through all the layers and understand navigation within AWS, making it the perfect book for those who are going to use AWS for the first time. It also includes security issues and infrastructures. In short, it is a comprehensive guide to making the reader familiar with the concepts of AWS.

5. Cloud Computing: A Hands-On Approach by Arshdeep Bahga and Vijay Madisetti

Cloud Computing: A Hands-On Approach by Arshdeep Bahga and Vijay Madisetti is a good book for those who prefer to read books in a hands-on way. The book was published back in 2014, and the main focus of the book was coding and developing real-life applications on the cloud. 

This book is segmented into three sections: base concepts, cloud computing technologies, and hands-on coding with Python. The book provides an in-depth perspective on cloud services, programming, and advanced topics such as big data analytics. This book, therefore, is highly advisable for readers who would like to have hands-on experience with cloud computing.

6. Cloud Computing: Methodology, Systems, and Applications by Lizhe Wang, Rajiv Ranjan, Jinjun Chen, and Boualem Benatallah

The book on cloud computing research and implementation, titled Cloud Computing: Methodology, Systems, and Applications, published in 2017, is comprehensive. The book comprises three parts: concepts and methodologies, functionalities and provisioning, and case studies. Among the topics it covers are architecture, performance analysis, and security. Therefore, the vast scope makes it an easily accessible source for novice and advanced users for an all-inclusive understanding of cloud computing, based on extensive case studies and guidelines.

7. Cloud Computing: Concepts, Technology & Architecture by Zaigham Mahmood, Ricardo Puttini, and Thomas Erl

Published by Pearson in the year 2013, Cloud Computing: Concepts, Technology & Architecture is a very structured book explaining the basics and architectures of cloud computing. Key concepts, mechanisms, and advanced architectures are covered as they will give readers a complete understanding of cloud computing. In addition to the above considerations, delivery models, cost models, and standards are also discussed and covered in this book.

8. Cloud Computing: From Beginning to End Ray J Rafaels

Cloud Computing: From Beginning to End by Ray J Rafaels gives a comprehensive view of the architectures and models of cloud computing. This book entails how solutions based on clouds can be regarded as solutions to modern IT challenges with cost-effective benefits. It is a good read for businesses that require the optimization of their operations by utilizing cloud technologies and the reader is desirous of gaining more profound insight into the basis that underlines the potential of cloud computing.

9. The Cloud at Your Service: The When, How and Why of Enterprise Cloud Computing by Jothy Rosenberg and Arthur Mateos

A must-read for strategic enterprise cloud adoption is The Cloud at Your Service by Jothy Rosenberg and Arthur Mateos. From industry experience comes practical advice on when and how to shift to the cloud, with strategies for maximizing the benefits of cloud computing. It's an asset for business and IT professionals involved in cloud strategy and implementation.

10. Cloud Native Patterns: Designing Change-Tolerant Software by Cornelia Davis

Cloud Native Patterns is a book written by Cornelia Davis, where it guides readers on how to design resilient and adaptable infrastructures in the cloud. Core principles and deployment patterns which are solely needed for developing scalable and adaptable clouds are recognized through it. The book is a must-read for developers or architects to design robust, agile cloud-native applications.

This collection of books offers different viewpoints on cloud computing. From introductory overviews to hands-on coding and strategic insights for all who want to know more about cloud computing. Whether just starting to see where cloud computing fits into existing frameworks or the need to deepen knowledge, these resources will be invaluable guidance for traversing the world of cloud computing.