Top 30+ Cloud Computing Interview Questions and Answers

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Cloud computing means storing and accessing data over the internet instead of your computer’s hard drive. The idea first came up in the 1960s with J.C.R. Licklider and became real in the 2000s when Amazon launched AWS. Today, cloud services power apps, websites and businesses of all sizes. Companies need experts to manage storage, security and computing on the cloud. Roles like cloud engineer, architect and DevOps specialist are in demand. To land one of these jobs, you need to prepare well. That’s where these 30+ commonly asked cloud computing interview questions and answers help.

Fun Fact: Over 94% of enterprises use cloud services in some form.

Basic Cloud Computing Interview Questions

Here are some commonly asked interview questions in cloud computing to help you understand the basics and get started with your preparation.  

1. What is cloud computing and how does it work?

Cloud computing means using the internet to access servers, storage, databases, and more – without owning the hardware. Resources are hosted in data centers and made available through a provider like AWS or Azure.

2. What are the different types of cloud deployment models?

There are four main models:

• Public cloud (shared with others)
• Private cloud (used by one organization)
• Hybrid cloud (a mix of both)
• Multi-cloud (using multiple providers)

3. What are the main differences between IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS?

• IaaS provides virtual servers, storage, and networking.
• PaaS offers a platform to build and deploy apps.
• SaaS gives users ready-to-use software over the web.

4. What is virtualization and why is it important in cloud computing?

Virtualization creates virtual machines on a single physical server. This allows better use of hardware and flexible resource allocation in cloud systems.

5. What are the key benefits of using cloud computing?

Cloud computing cuts hardware costs, scales quickly, updates automatically, and lets teams work from anywhere.

6. How is cloud computing different from traditional on-premises computing?

Cloud uses remote servers. On-premises uses local hardware. Cloud is flexible and subscription-based. On-prem is fixed and costly to scale.

7. What are some common examples of cloud platforms?

AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, Oracle Cloud, and IBM Cloud are widely used in 2025.

Note: Cloud-based interview questions often include topics like virtualization, service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), deployment types, scalability, security, and real-world cloud service scenarios.

Also Read - Top 25+ Azure IaaS Interview Questions and Answers

Cloud Computing Interview Questions for Freshers

These cloud computing questions and answers are perfect for entry-level professionals and freshers. 

8. What are the main service models used in cloud computing?

The three core models are:

• IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): Offers virtual machines, networks, and storage.
• PaaS (Platform as a Service): Gives a platform to build and deploy apps.
• SaaS (Software as a Service): Provides ready-to-use software over the web.

9. Who are the key actors in the cloud ecosystem?

The key roles are:

• Cloud providers (like AWS or Azure)
• Cloud consumers (users or companies using the service)
• Cloud brokers (manage use across providers)
• Cloud auditors (check for compliance)
• Cloud carriers (connect the services to users)

10. What is a public cloud and how is it different from a private cloud?

A public cloud is open to many users and managed by a provider. A private cloud is used by one company only and offers more control. Public clouds are cheaper. Private ones are more secure.

11. What is multi-tenancy in cloud environments?

Multi-tenancy means many users share the same physical resources but have isolated data and apps. It is like renting flats in one building.

12. What is the role of a hypervisor in cloud systems?

A hypervisor lets multiple virtual machines run on one physical server. It allocates CPU, memory, and storage to each VM.

13. What are some real-world applications of cloud computing?

Cloud powers services like Netflix, Dropbox, Zoom, online banking, and mobile app backends. Most tools I use daily run on the cloud now.

Cloud Computing Interview Questions for Experienced 

Let’s go through some advanced interview questions in cloud computing that are commonly asked for senior roles.

14. How do you design a fault-tolerant cloud system?

I use multiple availability zones or regions. Load balancers distribute traffic. Auto-scaling handles sudden spikes. I avoid single points of failure. Databases are replicated. I also test failover often.

15. What steps do you take to manage cloud infrastructure costs?

First, I monitor usage daily using built-in tools like AWS Cost Explorer or Azure Cost Management. I delete unused resources and downsize underused ones. I prefer reserved instances for long-term projects. I also tag resources by project to track spending.

16. How do you secure sensitive data in a cloud environment?

I encrypt data at rest and in transit. For access, I follow the principle of least privilege. I use strong IAM policies and enable MFA. I also scan for misconfigured storage buckets. Logs and alerts help me stay ahead of threats.

17. What are some common challenges in cloud migration?

Legacy systems often don’t fit the cloud easily. Data transfer is slow or costly at scale. Teams sometimes lack cloud skills. Security and compliance also cause delays. I deal with this by planning in phases and training teams early.

18. How do you implement disaster recovery in the cloud?

I create regular backups and test restores. I use cross-region replication for critical data. I define RTO and RPO for each app. I set up failover systems using DNS routing or load balancers. The plan is documented and reviewed often.

19. What tools do you use for monitoring cloud resources?

I use CloudWatch in AWS and Azure Monitor in Azure. For deeper metrics, I add Datadog or New Relic. I track CPU, memory, disk, and latency. I also use logs and alerts to catch issues before users notice them.

Scenario Based Questions on Cloud Computing

You might also come across cloud based interview questions that focus on practical scenarios, troubleshooting, and decision-making in live cloud environments.

20. A client wants to shift to the cloud but is worried about vendor lock-in. What would you suggest?

I recommend using open-source tools and container-based deployments like Kubernetes. Avoid proprietary services where possible. Design systems using loosely coupled microservices and standard APIs. This makes it easier to switch providers later if needed.

21. Your cloud-hosted app faces sudden traffic spikes. What would you do to keep it stable?

First, I would enable auto-scaling to add more instances when load increases. I would also use a content delivery network (CDN) like CloudFront to reduce pressure on the origin servers. Load balancers help distribute the traffic. I would monitor response times and error rates in real time.

22. How would you troubleshoot latency issues in a multi-region cloud setup?

I would check if traffic is routed to the nearest region using DNS tools like Route 53. I would look for slow services, overloaded instances, or cross-region API calls. Using logging and tracing tools like CloudWatch and X-Ray helps pinpoint the cause quickly.

23. You are tasked with setting up a secure multi-tenant cloud application. What steps would you take?

I would start by isolating tenant data using strict access controls and logical separation. Role-based access, encryption, and API gateways are a must. I would design the architecture so each tenant’s traffic and data are securely handled. Regular audits and scanning help find any weak spots.

Platform-Specific Cloud Computing Interview Questions

Now let’s cover interview questions on popular cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and Oracle.

AWS Cloud Computing Interview Questions

24. What are the core services offered by AWS?

AWS offers compute (EC2, Lambda), storage (S3, EBS), networking (VPC, Route 53), and databases (RDS, DynamoDB). These are the most widely used building blocks for cloud apps.

25. How do you use AWS IAM to manage access?

IAM lets me create users, roles, and policies. I assign permissions based on the least privilege model. I also use IAM roles for apps and services, and I always turn on MFA for admin users.

26. What is the difference between EC2 and Lambda?

EC2 gives full control of virtual servers. I choose the OS, install software, and manage scaling. Lambda runs functions without managing servers. It’s better for short tasks or event-driven apps.

AWS IaaS Interview Questions

27. What services in AWS fall under IaaS?

IaaS in AWS includes EC2 for compute, EBS and S3 for storage, VPC for networking, and Elastic Load Balancing. These let users manage infrastructure without owning hardware.

28. How would you configure auto-scaling for an EC2 instance?

I set up a launch template with instance settings. Then I create an Auto Scaling Group. I add scaling policies that trigger when CPU or traffic crosses limits. This keeps my app stable during load changes.

29. What storage options are available under IaaS in AWS?

EBS offers block storage for EC2. S3 gives object storage for files and backups. Instance Store is temporary and tied to the life of the EC2. EFS is shared file storage for Linux systems.

Azure Cloud Computing Interview Questions

30. What are Azure Resource Groups and why are they important?

A Resource Group is a container that holds related Azure resources. It helps me organize, monitor, and manage them together. I can apply tags and permissions at the group level.

31. What is the difference between Azure Functions and Web Jobs?

Azure Functions are event-driven and serverless. They start on triggers and scale automatically. Web Jobs run inside an App Service. They suit background tasks but don’t scale as flexibly.

32. How do you manage access in Azure using RBAC?

RBAC lets me assign roles to users, groups, or apps. Roles define what actions are allowed. I apply roles at different scopes – like subscription, resource group, or specific resource. I avoid giving broad permissions.

Also Read - Top 40+ Azure Cloud Interview Questions and Answers

Google Cloud Computing Interview Questions

33. What is Google Cloud Pub/Sub and when would you use it?

Pub/Sub is a messaging service for real-time communication between systems. I use it to connect microservices, stream data, or trigger workflows when events happen.

34. How does GCP handle identity and access management?

GCP uses IAM to control who can do what. I assign roles to users or service accounts. Roles can be basic, predefined, or custom. I always use least privilege access.

35. What is the role of BigQuery in GCP?

BigQuery is a serverless data warehouse. I use it to run fast SQL queries on huge datasets. It is great for analytics and doesn’t need setup or scaling work from my side.

Oracle Cloud Computing Interview Questions

36. What are the key components of Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI)?

OCI includes Compute, Networking, Block Volumes, Object Storage, File Storage, Load Balancers, and Identity and Access Management (IAM). It also supports Databases, Containers, and Monitoring tools.

37. How does Oracle Cloud support high availability?

OCI uses multiple availability domains and fault domains. I deploy apps across them to avoid single points of failure. Load balancers help distribute traffic if one part goes down.

38. What is Oracle Autonomous Database?

It is a fully managed database that handles tuning, scaling, backups, and patching. I don’t need to manage it manually. It is built for high performance and low admin effort.

Role-Based Cloud Interview Questions

Here are some important interview questions in cloud computing based on specific job roles like cloud engineer, architect, and infrastructure specialist.

Cloud Engineering Interview Questions

39. What is your process for deploying infrastructure as code?

I write templates using Terraform or AWS CloudFormation. I test in a dev environment first. Then I push changes through a CI/CD pipeline with version control and approval checks.

40. How do you handle performance tuning in cloud-hosted applications?

I monitor CPU, memory, and response times. I optimize queries and cache responses where needed. Sometimes, I scale horizontally or adjust instance types based on load trends.

41. How do you manage secrets and credentials in a cloud setup?

I never hardcode secrets. I use tools like AWS Secrets Manager, Azure Key Vault, or HashiCorp Vault. They store API keys, passwords, and tokens securely. I also rotate keys regularly and audit access logs.

Cloud Architecture Interview Questions

42. How do you choose between microservices and monoliths in cloud architecture?

If the system is small or early-stage, I start with a monolith. It is faster to build and deploy. For large or complex systems, I break it into microservices. It helps with scaling and independent updates.

43. What is a service mesh and when would you use one?

A service mesh manages how microservices talk to each other. I use it when there are many services needing traffic control, retries, observability, and secure communication. Istio is one option I have used.

44. What factors do you consider when choosing a region for deployment?

I look at user location, data residency laws, available services, and latency. Cost matters too. Sometimes I pick multiple regions for redundancy or disaster recovery.

Cloud Infrastructure (Infra) Interview Questions

Here are some commonly asked cloud infra interview questions that test your understanding of networks, storage, servers, and security in a cloud setup.

45. How do you plan and set up cloud networking?

I start by designing the VPC layout, including public and private subnets. I define CIDR blocks, add internet gateways, NAT, and route tables. Security groups and NACLs control traffic in and out.

46. What is the difference between a VPC and a subnet?

A VPC is the overall virtual network. Subnets are slices of that network, split by IP range and use case. I use private subnets for backend services and public ones for internet-facing apps.

47. How would you architect a high-availability cloud setup?

I deploy across multiple availability zones. Load balancers distribute traffic. Databases are replicated. I avoid single points of failure. Backups and health checks are built into the design.

Cloud Computing Viva Questions

Here are some basic oral interview questions in cloud computing that are often asked during viva exams or quick assessments.

48. What is the difference between scalability and elasticity?

Scalability means a system can grow in capacity. Elasticity means it can grow and shrink automatically based on demand. Both help apps handle traffic smoothly.

49. What is edge computing and how does it relate to cloud computing?

Edge computing processes data closer to where it is generated – like on devices or near users. It reduces latency. It works with cloud computing by sending only needed data to the cloud for storage or deeper analysis.

50. What is a container in cloud computing?

A container is a lightweight, standalone unit that packages code and its dependencies. It runs the same way across environments. I usually work with Docker containers.

51. What is rate limiting and why is it used?

Rate limiting controls how often someone can make a request. It protects APIs from overuse or abuse. It also helps stop spam and bot attacks.

52. What is the role of an API Gateway in cloud systems?

An API Gateway sits between clients and services. It handles request routing, authentication, throttling, and monitoring. It keeps microservices secure and manageable.

53. What is the difference between a cloud and a data center?

Cloud is virtual and scalable. A data center is physical hardware. With cloud, I rent. With data centers, I own and manage.

Cloud Computing MCQs

These are multiple choice questions on cloud computing to help you test your knowledge and prepare for exams or job assessments.

1. Which of the following is a cloud deployment model?

a) Public cloud
b) Private cloud
c) Hybrid cloud
d) All of the above

Answer: d) All of the above

2. Which one is not a cloud service model?

a) SaaS
b) PaaS
c) DaaS
d) IaaS

Answer: c) DaaS

3. Which of the following ensures high availability in the cloud?

a) Load balancing
b) Horizontal scaling
c) Multi-region setup
d) All of the above

Answer: d) All of the above

4. What is the main advantage of serverless computing?

a) High memory usage
b) No code deployment
c) No server management
d) Dedicated hardware access

Answer: c) No server management

5. What does multi-tenancy mean?

a) Shared resources with isolated user environments
b) Multiple servers for one user
c) No shared resources
d) One user per cloud

Answer: a) Shared resources with isolated user environments

6. Which tool is used for resource monitoring in AWS?

a) Azure Monitor
b) GCP Logs
c) CloudWatch
d) DataDog

Answer: c) CloudWatch

7. Which service is not part of IaaS?

a) Virtual machines
b) Storage
c) App Engine
d) Networking

Answer: c) App Engine

8. What is the default encryption protocol for data in transit in cloud?

a) AES
b) SHA-256
c) TLS
d) None

Answer: c) TLS

9. Which of the following is a container orchestration tool?

a) Docker
b) Kubernetes
c) Jenkins
d) Ansible

Answer: b) Kubernetes

10. Which cloud model is best for real-time data streaming and quick deployment?

a) IaaS
b) SaaS
c) FaaS
d) PaaS

Answer: c) FaaS

How to Prepare for Cloud Computing Interview?

Here are some tips to help you get ready and feel more confident during your cloud computing interview:

• Understand IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, and deployment models
• Learn how major platforms like AWS, Azure, and GCP work
• Practice explaining real project work or scenarios
• Review security, scalability, and cost optimization topics
• Use mock interviews and whiteboard exercises
• Keep answers simple and focused on results
• Read documentation and recent case studies

Wrapping Up

So, these are the 30+ cloud computing interview questions you should know before your next job interview. They cover the basics, advanced topics, and real-world scenarios. Keep practicing and stay updated with the latest trends.

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Cloud Engineer Salary in India (Updated 2025)
Based on 19.3k salaries • Updated: 2 Aug 2025
Experience	1 – 7 years exp.
Annual Salary Range	₹3 Lakhs – ₹15 Lakhs
Monthly In-hand Salary	₹42,000 – ₹43,000
Average Annual Salary	₹8 Lakhs (Salary of majority employees)