Choosing Your First Cloud Certification: Microsoft, AWS, or Google?

Gregory Henson
12 minutes ago
2 min read

At Cloud Veterans, we believe your transition from military service to a tech career should be mission-driven, clear, and achievable. One of the best ways to launch your career in cloud computing is by earning an entry-level certification — and today, we’re breaking down the three most popular beginner paths:

Microsoft AZ-900: Azure Fundamentals
AWS CLF-C01: Certified Cloud Practitioner
Google Cloud Business Essentials

These certs are respected by employers, beginner-friendly, and 100% covered by Cloud Veterans for qualified participants.

Let’s explore what each offers — and how to choose the right one for your journey.

🎓 Microsoft AZ-900: Azure Fundamentals

Best for: Veterans exploring Microsoft ecosystems or hybrid cloud environments

Why it matters:Microsoft Azure is used by 95% of Fortune 500 companies. The AZ-900 teaches the fundamentals of cloud services and how they're provided with Azure — including security, privacy, pricing, and support.

Skills you’ll gain:

Cloud concepts (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS)
Azure services like virtual machines, storage, and databases
Pricing, SLAs, and lifecycle management
Security and compliance basics

Great fit if you:

Want to pursue roles like Azure Administrator or Architect
Are interested in Microsoft tools and enterprise systems
See yourself working in government, defense, or corporate IT environments

☁️ AWS CLF-C01: Certified Cloud Practitioner

Best for: Veterans looking to break into tech through the world’s most widely used cloud platform

Why it matters:AWS powers everything from Netflix to NASA. This cert proves you understand the basics of AWS services, security, billing, and cloud architecture — even with no prior IT experience.

Skills you’ll gain:

AWS global infrastructure
Compute, storage, and networking basics
Shared responsibility model
Cloud financial management

Great fit if you:

Want to pursue AWS-specific careers
Are interested in startups, defense contractors, or data-heavy industries
Value a certification recognized across industries globally

🌐 Google Cloud: Business Essentials

Best for: Veterans focused on digital transformation, collaboration tools, and SMB/startup environments

Why it matters: This certification covers Google Cloud’s core business services and how to

use them to increase productivity and scale. It's not as technical as AZ-900 or CLF-C01, but it’s a great primer for leadership, project management, or non-technical tech roles.

Skills you’ll gain:

Understanding cloud transformation
Using Google Workspace (Docs, Gmail, Meet)
Core Google Cloud services like App Engine and BigQuery
Digital collaboration and innovation

Great fit if you:

Want to work in tech-enabled business or operations roles
See yourself leading teams or helping businesses adopt cloud
Prefer working in startup or mission-driven organizations

🏁 So, Which One Should You Choose?

There’s no wrong answer — each of these certifications gives you a powerful head start.

Here’s our recommendation:

Start with AZ-900 if you’re headed into Microsoft-heavy environments or corporate IT
Start with CLF-C01 if you want the broadest technical foundation and most job opportunities
Start with Google Business Essentials if you're leaning toward management, project roles, or productivity-focused work