Journey Through the Clouds: 19 Best Cloud Computing Books
Navigating the complex landscape of cloud computing can be daunting. As someone deeply immersed in the world of cloud, I've read dozens of books that cover everything from Kubernetes to Microsoft Azure. Close examination has allowed me to understand the criticality of choices—like opting for Google Cloud or leveraging the automation capabilities of other solutions.
Having a cloud-like mindset and appreciating the nuances of private cloud setups are fundamental. With this foundation, I've ventured into real-world applications and strategies, carefully evaluating various cloud service providers and understanding what the future of cloud will bring.
Let's explore the intersection of cloud-based solutions with the best cloud computing books available today.
19 Best Cloud Computing Books
- Cloud Computing: Concepts, Technology & Architecture by Thomas Erl
- Architecting the Cloud: Design Decisions for Cloud Computing Service Models (SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS) by Michael J. Kavis
- Cloud Computing Bible by Barrie Sosinsky
- Cloud Native Patterns: Designing change-tolerant software by Cornelia Davis
- Azure AI Services at Scale for Cloud, Mobile, and Edge: Building Intelligent Apps with Azure Cognitive Services and Machine Learning by Simon Bisson and Mary Branscombe
- Cloud Application Architectures: Building Application Infrastructures in the Cloud by George Reese
- Mastering Cloud Computing: Foundations and Applications Programming by Rajkumar Buyya, Christian Vecchiola, S. Thamarai Selvi
- Cloud Computing for Dummies by Judith Hurwitz, Robin Bloor, Marcia Kaufman, and Fern Halper
- The Cloud at Your Service: The When, How and Why of Enterprise Cloud Computing by Jothy Rosenberg and Arthur Mateos
- Amazon Web Services in Action by Michael Wittig and Andreas Wittig
- The Cloud Adoption Playbook: Proven Strategies for Transforming Your Organization with the Cloud by Moe Abdula, Ingo Averdunk, Roland Barcia, Kyle Brown, and Ndu Emuchay
- Designing Data-Intensive Applications: The Big Ideas Behind Reliable, Scalable, and Maintainable Systems by Martin Kleppmann
- Cloud Computing: From Beginning to End by Ray J Rafaels
- Practical Cloud Security: A Guide For Secure Design and Deployment by Chris Dotson
- Cloud FinOps: Collaborative, Real-Time Cloud Value Decision Making by J.R. Storment and Mike Fuller
- Cloud Native Java: Designing Resilient Systems with Spring Boot, Spring Cloud, and Cloud Foundry by Josh Long and Kenny Bastani
- Cloud Native Infrastructure: Patterns for Scalable Infrastructure and Applications in a Dynamic Environment by Justin Garrison and Kris Nova
- Cloud Computing: A Hands-On Approach by Arshdeep Bahga and Vijay Madisetti
- Cloud Computing for Enterprise Architectures by Zaigham Mahmood and Richard Hill
Overviews of the 19 Best Cloud Computing Books
1. Cloud Computing: Concepts, Technology & Architecture by Thomas Erl
Summary:
Delve deep into the core of cloud computing with Thomas Erl's insightful guide. Erl masterfully unravels the intricate web of concepts, technologies, and architectural paradigms that make up the cloud universe.
What You'll Learn:
- Comprehensive understanding of cloud service models.
- Architectural patterns and designs for effective cloud adoption.
- Practical implications and the future of cloud computing.
Why You Should Read It:
If a holistic grasp of the cloud's underpinning mechanisms is what you seek, this book will be your beacon. It's a reservoir of knowledge, both foundational and advanced.
Quote From The Book:
"Cloud Computing is about providing IT-related services through the internet."
About The Author:
Thomas Erl is a best-selling IT author and the founder of the Arcitura Education platform. You can connect with him on LinkedIn or visit his website.
2. Architecting the Cloud: Design Decisions for Cloud Computing Service Models (SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS) by Michael J. Kavis
Summary:
Kavis elucidates the architectural intricacies involved in designing robust cloud models. Through this guide, you'll navigate the challenges and rewards of implementing SaaS (Software as a Service), PaaS, and IaaS.
What You'll Learn:
- Best practices for architecting in the cloud.
- The differences and potential of SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS.
- Common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
Why You Should Read It:
Michael's approach to cloud architecture is practical and profound, making it essential reading for aspiring cloud architects or seasoned professionals seeking a fresh perspective.
Quote From The Book:
"The business goals should drive every design decision in the cloud."
About The Author:
Michael J. Kavis is a thought leader in cloud computing with a rich history in technology architecture. Stay updated with his LinkedIn, Twitter, and official blog insights.
3. Cloud Computing Bible by Barrie Sosinsky
Summary:
The "Bible" isn't just a tag; Sosinsky's comprehensive guide to cloud computing feels encyclopedic. The book covers everything, from basics to advanced strategies, ensuring a complete understanding.
What You'll Learn:
- A to Z of cloud computing in digestible chunks.
- Strategies for seamless cloud migration.
- Security protocols and best practices in the cloud.
Why You Should Read It:
A one-stop shop for cloud knowledge, it is as relevant for beginners as for experts. With its broad coverage, you'll always find something new to learn.
Quote From The Book:
"Cloud is not a single product, but a series of interconnected and interdependent technologies."
About The Author:
Barrie Sosinsky is a recognized expert in cloud and networking topics. Engage with him on his LinkedIn account.
4. Cloud Native Patterns: Designing change-tolerant software by Cornelia Davis
Summary:
Cornelia Davis masterfully illustrates how to architect software that harnesses the full capabilities of the cloud. She lays the groundwork for building adaptable and resilient software that can evolve with changing requirements.
What You'll Learn:
- The principles of cloud-native design.
- Techniques for building scalable and resilient applications.
- Patterns to help applications adapt to change.
Why You Should Read It:
Davis's book is a handbook for modern software engineers who want to create software that isn’t just cloud-ready but is truly cloud native.
Quote From The Book:
"Being cloud native is about designing for change."
About The Author:
Cornelia Davis is a trailblazer in cloud-native application design. Connect with her on LinkedIn, follow her journey on Twitter, or delve deeper into her thoughts on her website.
5. Azure AI Services at Scale for Cloud, Mobile, and Edge: Building Intelligent Apps with Azure Cognitive Services and Machine Learning by Simon Bisson and Mary Branscombe
Summary:
This book offers an in-depth dive into harnessing Azure’s powerful AI capabilities. Bisson and Branscombe walk readers through building intelligent applications across varied platforms, from cloud to edge.
What You'll Learn:
- How to deploy Azure AI services across different platforms.
- Techniques to scale AI operations with Azure Cognitive Services.
- Best practices for integrating virtual machine learning into applications.
Why You Should Read It:
This book is a goldmine for anyone eager to harness the power of Azure's AI suite, offering actionable insights for building more innovative applications.
Quote From The Book:
"AI is not about replacing humans, but augmenting our capabilities with Azure’s prowess."
About The Authors:
Simon Bisson is an AI enthusiast and Azure expert, and Mary Branscombe is a seasoned tech writer with a focus on cloud solutions.
6. Cloud Application Architectures by George Reese
Summary:
George Reese provides an analytical perspective on designing, developing, and managing cloud applications. His systematic approach ensures that applications are scalable, secure, and maintainable.
What You'll Learn:
- The nuances of building applications for the cloud.
- Strategies for managing and maintaining cloud applications.
- Considerations for security and scalability.
Why You Should Read It:
Reese’s pragmatic approach ensures a cloud presence and optimized, efficient, and secure cloud operations.
Quote From The Book:
"In the cloud, proper architecture isn't a luxury; it's the foundation of sustainability."
About The Author:
George Reese has an extensive background in cloud solutions and software development. Engage with his cloud musings on LinkedIn and Twitter.
7. Mastering Cloud Computing: Foundations and Applications Programming by Rajkumar Buyya, Christian Vecchiola, S. Thamarai Selvi
Summary:
A comprehensive guide that covers both foundational aspects and intricate details of cloud computing, ensuring readers gain expertise in applications programming in the cloud realm.
What You'll Learn:
- Fundamental principles underlying cloud computing.
- Techniques for efficient cloud applications programming.
- Advanced concepts to master the cloud ecosystem.
Why You Should Read It:
A blend of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises makes this book a treasure trove for those aspiring to mastery in cloud computing.
Quote From The Book:
"Cloud isn't just a technology; it's an orchestration of innovations harmonizing together."
About The Authors:
Rajkumar Buyya is a revered figure in the cloud domain. At the same time, Christian Vecchiola and S. Thamarai Selvi are eminent cloud computing personalities, with deep insights shared on their respective platforms.
8. Cloud Computing for Dummies by Judith Hurwitz, Robin Bloor, Marcia Kaufman, and Fern Halper
Summary:
This book breaks down the sometimes overwhelming world of cloud computing into digestible bits, allowing even those new to the subject to grasp its essentials.
What You'll Learn:
- The basics of cloud computing are explained in simple terms.
- How businesses can harness the cloud for maximum benefit.
- Addressing common concerns and misconceptions about the cloud.
Why You Should Read It:
Its approachable style doesn't compromise depth—making it an excellent pick for beginners and seasoned pros looking for a refresher.
Quote From The Book:
"Demystifying the cloud, one layer at a time."
About The Authors:
Judith Hurwitz, Robin Bloor, Marcia Kaufman, and Fern Halper are a powerhouse team with decades of combined experience in the tech industry.
9. The Cloud at Your Service: The When, How and Why of Enterprise Cloud Computing by Jothy Rosenberg and Arthur Mateos
Summary:
Rosenberg and Mateos shed light on the strategic adoption of cloud services in enterprises, emphasizing the significance of timing, method, and purpose.
What You'll Learn:
- Deciding the right time for businesses to transition to the cloud.
- Methods to ensure seamless migration and adoption.
- The tangible and intangible benefits of enterprise cloud computing.
Why You Should Read It:
This book provides actionable advice for businesses on the cusp of cloud migration grounded in years of industry experience.
Quote From The Book:
"The cloud isn't just a destination—it's a journey of transformation."
About The Authors:
Jothy Rosenberg and Arthur Mateos are tech veterans with strategic prowess in cloud.
10. Amazon Web Services in Action by Michael Wittig and Andreas Wittig
Summary:
The Wittig brothers provide an in-depth guide to Amazon Web Services, walking readers through the vast AWS landscape, its services, and how to harness them effectively.
What You'll Learn:
- The intricacies of various AWS services.
- Hands-on techniques to deploy and manage applications on AWS.
- Strategies to optimize costs and performance on AWS.
Why You Should Read It:
A hands-on approach with practical examples makes this book a valuable companion for AWS newcomers and experienced practitioners.
Quote From The Book:
"Dive deep into the world of AWS, where innovation meets scalability."
About The Authors:
Michael Wittig and Andreas Wittig are experts in cloud computing, especially in the AWS ecosystem.
11. The Cloud Adoption Playbook: Proven Strategies for Transforming Your Organization with the Cloud by Moe Abdula, Ingo Averdunk, Roland Barcia, Kyle Brown, and Ndu Emuchay
Summary:
Collaborating with five cloud experts provides readers with strategies to seamlessly adopt cloud technologies, ensuring both technical and cultural readiness in organizations.
What You'll Learn:
- Step-by-step processes for effective cloud adoption.
- Addressing cultural shifts and challenges in cloud transitions.
- Measuring the success and ROI of cloud adoption.
Why You Should Read It:
This playbook isn’t just about technology—it tackles the human side of cloud adoption, making it a holistic guide.
Quote From The Book:
"Transforming with the cloud isn't an IT change—it's an organizational evolution."
About The Authors:
Moe Abdula, Ingo Averdunk, Roland Barcia, Kyle Brown, and Ndu Emuchay are thought leaders in the cloud domain.
12. Designing Data-Intensive Applications: The Big Ideas Behind Reliable, Scalable, and Maintainable Systems by Martin Kleppmann
Summary:
Kleppmann deciphers the complexities behind building data-intensive applications. This book dives into the architectural choices, challenges, and solutions in designing robust, scalable, and maintainable systems.
What You'll Learn:
- Architectural patterns and anti-patterns in data systems.
- Techniques to ensure reliability, scalability, and maintainability.
- The challenges and evolution of data storage, retrieval, and processing.
Why You Should Read It:
This book is a beacon for software engineers and architects, guiding them through the challenging terrain of data-intensive application design.
Quote From The Book:
"Data is at the heart of modern applications, and its design determines its pulse."
About The Author:
Martin Kleppmann is a renowned figure in distributed systems and big data. Engage with his profound insights on LinkedIn, Twitter, or his website.
13. Cloud Computing: From Beginning to End by Ray J Rafaels
Summary:
Rafaels offers a comprehensive journey through the cloud computing landscape. This book serves as a primer for novices while providing advanced insights for seasoned professionals.
What You'll Learn:
- The foundational concepts of cloud computing.
- An understanding of cloud deployment models and services.
- Best practices in cloud strategy and implementation.
Why You Should Read It:
Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your cloud knowledge, Rafaels bridges the gap and provides a cohesive narrative.
Quote From The Book:
"In the vast sky of technology, the cloud offers limitless potential."
About The Author:
Ray J Rafaels is recognized for his extensive knowledge of cloud infrastructure. Dive deeper into his expertise on LinkedIn.
14. Practical Cloud Security: A Guide For Secure Design and Deployment by Chris Dotson
Summary:
Dotson addresses the increasing concern of cloud security. This book offers pragmatic solutions to fortify your cloud deployments against potential threats.
What You'll Learn:
- The fundamentals of cloud security practices.
- How to design and deploy secure cloud architectures.
- Risk mitigation strategies and compliance considerations.
Why You Should Read It:
In an age of increasing cyber threats, Dotson’s guide is essential for anyone wanting to safeguard their cloud deployments.
Quote From The Book:
"Secure clouds are not a destination; they're a continuous journey."
About The Author:
Chris Dotson is known for his contributions to the realm of cloud security. Connect with him and explore more on LinkedIn and Twitter.
15. Cloud FinOps: Collaborative, Real-Time Cloud Value Decision Making by J.R. Storment and Mike Fuller
Summary:
In "Cloud FinOps," experts J.R. Storment and Mike Fuller deeply dive into cloud financial operations. The book offers a comprehensive guide on achieving financial accountability in cloud environments, ensuring that organizations get value from every dime they spend on the cloud. The authors seamlessly blend technical know-how with financial understanding, resulting in an actionable and enlightening guide.
What You'll Learn:
- Techniques for effective financial management in cloud environments.
- Strategies to optimize cloud costs without compromising on performance.
- Approaches to foster collaboration between tech and finance teams for cloud financial operations.
- Methods for real-time decision-making to maximize cloud value.
Why You Should Read It:
The cloud revolutionized the tech industry, but managing cloud costs can be challenging. This book provides essential tools to help organizations navigate the financial complexities of the cloud. Whether you're a CTO, CFO, or a cloud engineer, "Cloud FinOps" gives you the insights needed to make informed financial decisions in a cloud-first world.
Quote From The Book:
"Real value in the cloud is realized not just by scaling resources, but by intertwining financial strategy with technical expertise."
About The Author:
J.R. Storment and Mike Fuller are at the forefront of the cloud financial management domain. With extensive experience, they have empowered countless organizations to enhance their cloud financial operations.
16. Cloud Native Java: Designing Resilient Systems with Spring Boot, Spring Cloud, and Cloud Foundry by Josh Long and Kenny Bastani
Summary:
Dive deep into the world of Cloud Native Java with Long and Bastani. This resource emphasizes using Spring Boot, Spring Cloud, and Cloud Foundry to design systems that thrive in a cloud environment.
What You'll Learn:
- The art of developing resilient systems using Java.
- Leveraging Spring Boot and Spring Cloud for optimal cloud deployments.
- Exploring and mastering the intricacies of Cloud Foundry.
Why You Should Read It:
It's a comprehensive guide that combines the best of Java and cloud paradigms, ensuring your applications are robust and scalable.
Quote From The Book:
"In the vast expanse of the cloud, Java finds its native home."
About The Author:
Josh Long and Kenny Bastani are acclaimed figures in the cloud-native ecosystem.
17. Cloud Native Infrastructure: Patterns for Scalable Infrastructure and Applications in a Dynamic Environment by Justin Garrison and Kris Nova
Summary:
Garrison and Nova shed light on designing genuinely cloud-native infrastructures. They focus on creating systems that scale seamlessly, adapting to dynamic environments.
What You'll Learn:
- Core principles behind scalable infrastructure.
- Patterns and best practices for cloud-native deployments.
- Strategies for ensuring infrastructure can adapt swiftly to changes.
Why You Should Read It:
Understanding the nuances of cloud-native infrastructure is crucial to harness the full potential of cloud environments, and this book serves as your expert guide.
Quote From The Book:
"Being cloud-native is not an endpoint; it's a continuous evolution."
About The Author:
Justin Garrison and Kris Nova are celebrated for their depth of knowledge in cloud infrastructure.
18. Cloud Computing: A Hands-On Approach by Arshdeep Bahga and Vijay Madisetti
Summary:
"Cloud Computing: A Hands-On Approach" is a comprehensive guide that dives deep into the intricate world of cloud computing. Authored by Arshdeep Bahga and Vijay Madisetti, this book provides readers with a clear understanding of the principles of cloud computing through real-world examples, hands-on exercises, and in-depth analysis.
What You'll Learn:
- The foundational principles of cloud computing and its varied applications.
- Practical approaches to implementing cloud solutions across different industries.
- In-depth tutorials on popular cloud platforms and tools.
Why You Should Read It:
With the world rushing towards a cloud-first approach, having a hands-on understanding of cloud computing is imperative. This book not only lays down the theoretical aspects but also equips you with practical knowledge, ensuring you're ready for the challenges of the modern tech world.
Quote From The Book:
"Cloud computing is not just a technology, but a paradigm shift in the way we think about and deliver computing resources."
About The Author:
Arshdeep Bahga and Vijay Madisetti are renowned authors and educators in cloud computing. With a rich background in academia and industry, their insights have shaped the understanding of many budding tech enthusiasts and professionals.
19. Cloud Computing for Enterprise Architectures by Zaigham Mahmood and Richard Hill
Summary:
In "Cloud Computing for Enterprise Architectures,” authors Zaigham Mahmood and Richard Hill explore the integration, challenges, and benefits of cloud computing across various enterprise architectures. Drawing from comprehensive research and insights, the book navigates the intricacies of cloud applications in enterprise scenarios, positioning itself as a pivotal read for IT enthusiasts aiming to harness the potential of the cloud.
What You'll Learn:
- The core principles of cloud computing and its relevance to enterprise architectures.
- Challenges and benefits associated with the integration of cloud computing in businesses.
- Practical insights into the successful adoption and management of cloud solutions.
Why You Should Read It:
This book is a holistic guide for those eager to understand the symbiotic relationship between cloud computing and enterprise architectures. With each chapter, Mahmood and Hill unravel the layers of cloud integration, shedding light on the opportunities and hurdles for enterprises venturing into the cloud.
Quote From The Book:
"Cloud computing is not just a technology transition, but a paradigm shift, reshaping enterprises for decades to come."
About The Author:
Dr. Zaigham Mahmood is a recognized researcher and practitioner in the cloud computing realm, having authored and edited numerous books and articles in the field Dr. Richard Hill is an esteemed collaborator and has been instrumental in pioneering research related to cloud and enterprise solutions.
Takeaways
Our journey doesn't end here. A vast ocean of knowledge is waiting to be explored. Cloud computing offers an incredible opportunity for businesses to leverage the strengths of both public and private clouds. There are endless cloud resources to learn more, including podcasts about cloud computing, conferences, and courses.
You can subscribe to The CTO Club newsletter to stay updated on the future of hybrid cloud and the latest tools to build SaaS teams and systems that scale.