Cloud computing is the backbone of today’s IT. Startups to multi-national organizations, each and every business is adopting the cloud to enhance scalability, lower costs, and boost efficiency. But with numerous Cloud Service Providers, the question remains: Which one should you opt for — AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud (GCP)?
At UniNets, we are experts in breaking cloud ideas into simple terms and leading learners toward apt certifications, be that AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud certifications. But first, let us revisit the basics and see what is cloud computing.
What is Cloud Computing?
Put simply, cloud computing is the delivery of IT resources such as servers, storage, networking, and applications via the internet rather than handling them on your own machines.
If you’re wondering, “what is cloud computing in simple words?” — it’s like renting computing power and storage from companies like Amazon, Microsoft, or Google, instead of buying and maintaining your own servers.
Examples of cloud computing in daily life include:
Watching movies on Netflix (runs on cloud servers).
Saving files on Google Drive.
Using Microsoft Office 365 online.
The cloud makes technology more affordable, scalable, and accessible to everyone.
The OSI Model and Cloud Services
To grasp why cloud computing happens so smoothly, you must learn about the OSI model (Open Systems Interconnection model). The OSI model breaks down networking into seven levels, from hardware to applications.
Here’s how it relates to the cloud:
Physical & Data Link Layers – The infrastructure (servers, switches, cables) that cloud providers manage.
Network Layer – IP addressing and routing between global data centers.
Transport Layer – Guaranteed delivery of data with TCP/UDP.
Application Layer – User applications such as Google Cloud AI solutions, Azure applications, or AWS offerings.
It helps to know the OSI model specifically when you prepare for cloud certifications, as network knowledge assists you in troubleshooting and designing improved cloud solutions.
Why Choosing the Right Cloud Service Provider Matters
Not every cloud provider is equal. Each has its own set of strengths and weaknesses, which can truly matter depending on your business venture or professional aspirations.
For instance:
Developers of AI applications might find Google Cloud more suitable.
Companies with Microsoft solutions usually go for Azure.
Startups in need of scalability tend to begin with AWS.
Let’s put the top three Cloud Service Providers in 2025, AWS, Azure, and GCP, side by side.
Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Introduced in 2006, AWS is the cloud pioneer and market leader even in 2025. It has the maximum services and most extensive worldwide infrastructure.
Strengths:
Massive international presence with data centers across the globe.
Provides 200+ services, from storage to sophisticated AI.
Adaptable pricing models for various business sizes.
Best For:
Startups that require fast scaling.
Global businesses with operations worldwide.
Prospects seeking AWS Solutions Architect certifications.
Microsoft Azure
Released in 2010, Azure developed quickly, with its solid integration into Microsoft’s current infrastructure. It’s the second-largest provider in the world and widely used by businesses.
Strengths:
Best choice for businesses already employing Microsoft products.
Sound hybrid cloud capabilities (on-premises + cloud).
Strong security and compliance for regulated sectors.
Best For:
Big organizations operating Windows servers and Office 365.
Businesses that require hybrid cloud models.
IT professionals who require Microsoft Azure Administrator or Architect certifications.
Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
Google joined the cloud industry later than AWS and Azure but soon developed into a serious competitor. GCP, with its reputation for data analytics, AI, and ML, is the provider of choice for new-age tech-enabled solutions.
Strengths:
Market leader in AI and ML with products such as TensorFlow and Vertex AI.
Heavy emphasis on open-source and multi-cloud environments.
Aggressive pricing and customizable solutions.
Best For:
Data science, ML, and analytics-focused businesses.
Developers working with Kubernetes and containerized applications.
Students aspiring for Google Cloud certifications such as Cloud Engineer or Cloud Architect.
AWS vs Azure vs GCP – What to Choose?
Here’s a brief comparison:
Market Presence
AWS: Oldest and largest.
Azure: Wide enterprise adoption.
GCP: Increasing rapidly in AI and innovation.
Ease of Learning
AWS: Too many features but can be overwhelming.
Azure: Less complicated for professionals already using Microsoft tools.
GCP: Easy-to-learn certifications, particularly for data and AI.
Career Opportunities
AWS certifications lead to global enterprises.
Azure certifications are sought after in enterprise IT.
Google Cloud certifications are becoming popular in data-driven professions.
What Cloud Route Should You Pursue at UniNets?
At UniNets, we advise learners based on their career aspirations:
Beginners → Begin with Google Cloud’s Associate Cloud Engineer (easy, beginner level).
Enterprise IT Professionals → Opt for Microsoft Azure certifications for hybrid setups.
Global Cloud Architects → Opt for AWS certifications for widespread adoption and scalability.
In addition to cloud certifications, we also emphasize fundamental networking concepts such as the OSI model so that students grasp both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills.
Final Thoughts
Then which cloud service provider do you opt for? That depends on your objectives:
Select AWS for universal scalability and worldwide opportunities.
Select Azure if you are employed in Microsoft-dominated companies.
Select Google Cloud (GCP) if you are interested in specializing in AI, ML, and data analysis.
Cloud computing is no longer the future — it’s the present. If you’re still asking, “what is cloud computing in simple words?”, just remember: it’s using the internet to access IT resources instead of managing them yourself.
