How can you improve your cloud-based network problem-solving skills?

1 Understand the cloud architecture

The first step to solving any cloud-based network problem is to understand the cloud architecture and how it affects the network performance and functionality. You need to know the basic components of the cloud, such as the cloud service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), the cloud deployment models (public, private, hybrid, multi), and the cloud service providers (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, etc.). You also need to know how the cloud interacts with your on-premises network, such as the network connectivity options, the security protocols, and the monitoring tools. Having a clear picture of the cloud architecture will help you identify the root cause of the problem and the best solution.

2 Follow a systematic approach

The second step to solving any cloud-based network problem is to follow a systematic approach that guides you through the problem-solving process. A common framework that you can use is the PDCA cycle, which stands for Plan, Do, Check, Act. The PDCA cycle involves four steps: plan your actions and goals, do the actions and collect data, check the results and analyze the data, and act on the findings and make improvements. By following the PDCA cycle, you can ensure that you are solving the problem in a logical, data-driven, and iterative way.

3 Use the right tools

The third step to solving any cloud-based network problem is to use the right tools that can help you diagnose and fix the problem. There are many tools available for cloud-based network administration, such as ping, traceroute, nslookup, netstat, telnet, ssh, curl, and cloud-specific tools like AWS CLI, Azure CLI, Google Cloud SDK, etc. You need to be familiar with these tools and how to use them effectively. You also need to know how to access and interpret the logs, metrics, alerts, and dashboards that are provided by the cloud service providers and your own network monitoring systems. These tools can help you gather information, test hypotheses, verify solutions, and document results.

4 Learn from others

The fourth step to solving any cloud-based network problem is to learn from others who have faced similar or related problems before. You can leverage the knowledge and experience of your colleagues, peers, mentors, and online communities. You can ask for help, advice, feedback, or suggestions from them. You can also search for online resources, such as blogs, forums, podcasts, videos, courses, books, etc., that can teach you new skills, techniques, or best practices for cloud-based network administration. Learning from others can help you expand your perspective, avoid common pitfalls, and discover new solutions.

5 Keep up with the trends

The fifth step to solving any cloud-based network problem is to keep up with the trends and changes that are happening in the cloud industry. The cloud is constantly evolving, with new features, services, updates, and innovations being introduced by the cloud service providers and the cloud vendors. You need to stay informed and updated about these trends and changes, and how they affect your cloud-based network. You also need to be adaptable and flexible, and ready to embrace new opportunities and challenges. Keeping up with the trends can help you anticipate and prevent problems, or solve them faster and better.

6 Practice and improve

The sixth and final step to solving any cloud-based network problem is to practice and improve your skills and knowledge. You can practice by taking on new projects, tasks, or roles that involve cloud-based network administration. You can also practice by creating your own scenarios, simulations, or experiments that test your abilities and challenge your assumptions. You can improve by reviewing your performance, identifying your strengths and weaknesses, and setting your goals and action plans. You can also improve by seeking feedback, coaching, or mentoring from others. Practicing and improving can help you become a more confident, competent, and creative cloud-based network administrator.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?