# AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security Review (2026): 8.5/10 · EDX > Independent review of AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security on EDX. Rated 8.5/10 by our editorial team. Pros, cons, price, and top alternatives. Free to e… AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security ![AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security](/api/media/file/hero/aws-getting-started-with-cloud-security-course.jpg?width=800) # AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security Course — Review (8.5/10) This course delivers a clear, practical introduction to AWS cloud security, ideal for beginners. It covers essential topics like shared responsibility, network isolation, and monitoring tools. While l... Explore This Course AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security is a 4 weeks online beginner-level course on EDX by Amazon Web Services that covers cloud computing. This course delivers a clear, practical introduction to AWS cloud security, ideal for beginners. It covers essential topics like shared responsibility, network isolation, and monitoring tools. While light on hands-on labs, it effectively builds foundational knowledge. A solid starting point for those new to cloud security. We rate it 8.5/10. ## Prerequisites No prior experience required. This course is designed for complete beginners in cloud computing. ## Pros - Clear explanation of the AWS Shared Responsibility Model - Practical insights into network isolation techniques - Comprehensive coverage of monitoring with CloudWatch and GuardDuty - Free to audit with valuable foundational content ## Cons - Limited hands-on lab experience - No graded assessments in audit track - Assumes basic familiarity with AWS ## AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security Course Review Platform: EDX Instructor: Amazon Web Services Updated Apr 26, 2026·Editorial Standards·How We Rate ## What will you learn in AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security course - How the AWS Shared Responsibility Model is used to differentiate between security of the cloud and security in the cloud - How to use network isolation to protect cloud resources - How to audit and monitor applications using services such as Amazon CloudWatch, Amazon GuardDuty and AWSSecurity Hub - The difference between encryptionof data at rest and data in transit - How to protect compute resources - How to manage secrets ### Program Overview ### Module 1: Understanding AWS Security Fundamentals Duration estimate: Week 1 - Introduction to cloud security - AWS Shared Responsibility Model - Security roles and responsibilities ### Module 2: Network and Resource Protection Duration: Week 2 - Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) basics - Security groups and network ACLs - Isolating workloads using subnets ### Module 3: Monitoring, Auditing, and Threat Detection Duration: Week 3 - Introduction to AWS CloudWatch - Using AWS GuardDuty for threat detection - Centralized security with AWS Security Hub ### Module 4: Data Protection and Secret Management Duration: Week 4 - Encryption of data at rest and in transit - Using AWS Key Management Service (KMS) - Best practices for managing secrets securely ### Get certificate #### Job Outlook - Cloud security skills are in high demand across industries - Roles like Cloud Security Analyst and Security Engineer benefit from this foundation - Prepares learners for advanced AWS security certifications ## Editorial Take This course offers a structured, accessible entry point into AWS cloud security, ideal for those new to the cloud or transitioning from on-premises roles. Developed by AWS, it ensures content accuracy and alignment with real-world practices. ### Standout Strengths - Industry-Aligned Curriculum: Developed by AWS, the content reflects current best practices and real-world cloud security implementations. This ensures learners gain relevant, up-to-date knowledge directly from the source. - Clear Breakdown of Shared Responsibility: The course excels in demystifying the AWS Shared Responsibility Model. It clearly separates provider and customer duties, helping learners understand where their security obligations begin and end. - Practical Monitoring Tools Coverage: Learners gain hands-on familiarity with Amazon CloudWatch, GuardDuty, and AWS Security Hub. These tools are essential for detecting threats and maintaining compliance in live environments. - Strong Focus on Network Isolation: The module on VPCs, subnets, and security groups provides foundational knowledge for securing cloud architectures. It teaches how to segment environments and control traffic effectively. - Data Encryption Clarity: The course clearly differentiates encryption of data at rest versus in transit. It explains when and how to apply each method using AWS services like KMS and TLS protocols. - Compute and Secrets Protection: It covers securing EC2 instances and managing credentials securely using AWS Secrets Manager. These are critical skills for preventing unauthorized access and data breaches. ### Honest Limitations - Limited Hands-On Practice: While concepts are well-explained, the audit version lacks extensive labs. Learners may need to supplement with AWS Free Tier practice to fully internalize skills. - No Graded Assessments in Audit Mode: The free track doesn’t include graded quizzes or projects. This may reduce accountability and verification of understanding without paying for certification. - Assumes AWS Familiarity: The course moves quickly through basic AWS concepts. Learners unfamiliar with core services may need to review foundational material first. - Surface-Level on Advanced Topics: Some topics like GuardDuty and Security Hub are introduced but not deeply explored. Further study is needed for operational mastery. ### How to Get the Most Out of It - Study cadence: Dedicate 3–4 hours per week to complete modules on time. Spacing out study sessions improves retention of security concepts and service interactions. - Parallel project: Set up a simple VPC with public and private subnets using AWS Free Tier. Apply isolation principles and test connectivity to reinforce learning. - Note-taking: Document key differences between security of the cloud vs. in the cloud. Use diagrams to map out network flows and encryption points. - Community: Join AWS forums or edX discussion boards to ask questions and share insights. Engaging with peers helps clarify complex topics like threat detection. - Practice: Recreate monitoring dashboards in CloudWatch and enable GuardDuty in a test account. Hands-on experience deepens understanding of alerting and logs. - Consistency: Follow a weekly schedule to complete all four modules. Consistent progress prevents knowledge gaps, especially between networking and encryption topics. ### Supplementary Resources - Book: 'AWS Certified Security – Specialty Guide' by Dylan Shields. It expands on course topics with deeper technical detail and exam-focused practice. - Tool: AWS Free Tier account. Enables hands-on experimentation with VPCs, KMS, and monitoring services without incurring costs. - Follow-up: AWS Security Specialty certification path. Builds directly on this course’s foundation with advanced identity, data protection, and threat mitigation. - Reference: AWS Well-Architected Framework documentation. Provides best practices for security, reliability, and operational excellence in cloud environments. ### Common Pitfalls - Pitfall: Confusing responsibility boundaries in the shared model. Learners may overestimate AWS’s security role or underestimate their own obligations for configuration and access control. - Pitfall: Misconfiguring security groups and NACLs. Without hands-on practice, learners might not grasp rule precedence and traffic filtering logic in real deployments. - Pitfall: Overlooking encryption key management. Poor KMS key policies or unencrypted storage can undermine security, even if data is technically encrypted. ### Time & Money ROI - Time: At 4 weeks and 3–4 hours weekly, the time investment is manageable. The structured pace allows working professionals to balance learning with other commitments. - Cost-to-value: Free to audit, offering exceptional value for foundational cloud security knowledge. Even the verified track is reasonably priced for an industry-recognized credential. - Certificate: The verified certificate adds credibility to resumes, especially for those entering cloud roles. It demonstrates initiative and foundational AWS security understanding. - Alternative: Compared to paid bootcamps, this course delivers core concepts at a fraction of the cost. However, learners seeking certifications may need additional paid prep resources. ### Editorial Verdict This course is a strong starting point for anyone new to AWS cloud security. It delivers accurate, vendor-specific knowledge in a structured format, covering essential topics like the shared responsibility model, network isolation, monitoring, and data protection. The content is concise yet comprehensive enough to build a solid foundation, and being created by AWS ensures alignment with real-world practices. While it doesn’t dive deep into advanced configurations, it successfully prepares learners for more specialized training and certifications. We recommend this course for IT professionals, developers, or students looking to understand cloud security basics without prior AWS expertise. The free audit option makes it highly accessible, though enrolling in the verified track adds value through assessments and a shareable credential. To maximize learning, pair the course with hands-on practice in the AWS Free Tier. Overall, it’s a well-designed, cost-effective entry into cloud security that delivers on its promises and sets learners on a clear path toward more advanced topics. ## How AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security Compares | Course | Platform | Rating | Level | Duration | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security | EDX | 8.5/10 | Beginner | 4 weeks | | Google Cloud Generative AI Leader - Mock Exams [Apr'26] Course | Udemy | 9.8/10 | N/A | N/A | | Microsoft Azure Fundamentals AZ-900 Practice [Exams 2026] Course | Udemy | 9.8/10 | N/A | N/A | | Preparing for Google Cloud Certification: Cloud Security Engineer Professional Certificate Course | Coursera | 9.8/10 | N/A | N/A | ## Who Should Take AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security? This course is best suited for learners with no prior experience in cloud computing. It is designed for career changers, fresh graduates, and self-taught learners looking for a structured introduction. The course is offered by Amazon Web Services on EDX, combining institutional credibility with the flexibility of online learning. Upon completion, you will receive a verified certificate that you can add to your LinkedIn profile and resume, signaling your verified skills to potential employers. If you are exploring adjacent fields, you might also consider courses in Agile & Scrum Courses, AI Courses, Arts and Humanities Courses, which complement the skills covered in this course. ### Career Outcomes - Apply cloud computing skills to real-world projects and job responsibilities - Qualify for entry-level positions in cloud computing and related fields - Build a portfolio of skills to present to potential employers - Add a verified certificate credential to your LinkedIn and resume - Continue learning with advanced courses and specializations in the field ## More Cloud Computing Courses on EDX Explore other highly rated courses in cloud computing available on EDX to expand your learning path: - IBM: Introduction to Cloud Computing course 9.7/10 - Amazon DynamoDB: Building NoSQL Database-Driven Applications 8.5/10 - AWS Solutions Architect - From Design to Implementation Course 8.5/10 - AWS Developer: Building on AWS Course 8.5/10 - AWS Developer: Deploying on AWS Course 8.5/10 - AWS Developer: Optimizing on AWS Course 8.5/10 - AWS IoT: Developing and Deploying an Internet of Things 8.5/10 - Building Modern Nodejs Applications on AWS 8.5/10 - Cloud Operations on AWS Course 8.5/10 ## Top Alternatives on Other Platforms Looking for a different teaching style or approach? These top-rated cloud computing courses from other platforms cover similar ground: - Google Cloud Generative AI Leader - Mock Exams [Apr'26] Course 9.8/10 Udemy - Microsoft Azure Fundamentals AZ-900 Practice [Exams 2026] Course 9.8/10 Udemy - Preparing for Google Cloud Certification: Cloud Security Engineer Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 Coursera - Preparing for Google Cloud Certification: Cloud DevOps Engineer Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 Coursera - AWS Cloud Solutions Architect Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 Coursera - AWS Cloud Technology Consultant Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 Coursera - Practice Exams | AWS Certified Developer Associate 2024 Course 9.8/10 Udemy - Architecting with Google Kubernetes Engine en Español Specialization Course 9.8/10 Coursera - IBM DevOps and Software Engineering Professional Certificate Course 9.7/10 Coursera - AWS Fundamentals Specialization Course 9.7/10 Coursera ## More Courses from Amazon Web Services Amazon Web Services offers a range of courses across multiple disciplines. If you enjoy their teaching approach, consider these additional offerings: - AWS Cloud Technology Consultant Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 - AWS Cloud Solutions Architect Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 - DeepLearning.AI Data Engineering Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 - AWS Cloud Technical Essentials Course 9.7/10 - AWS Cloud Support Associate Professional Certificate Course 9.7/10 - AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials Course 9.7/10 - Amazon Junior Software Developer Professional Certificate Course 9.7/10 - AWS Fundamentals Specialization Course 9.7/10 View all courses from Amazon Web Services → ## Related Articles & Guides Deepen your understanding with these articles from our editorial team, covering career advice, industry trends, and learning strategies: - Build AI skills with the Google AI Professional Certificate - Python Tutorial: Best Courses to Learn Python in 2026 - CISSP vs CompTIA Security+: Which Cert Should You Pursue? - Coursera Data Analytics Professional Certificate: Worth It in 2026? - Best edX Courses in 2026: Top Picks by Enrollment and Career Value - Best Online Coursera Courses in 2026: What's Actually Worth Your Time - Udemy Online: What the Platform Actually Delivers in 2026 - OKR for Leaders: 7 Best Training Courses Compared (2026) - Generative AI for Marketing with Microsoft 365 Copilot: Professional Certificate Review - The Best React Courses in 2026, Ranked and Reviewed ## Explore All Course Categories Not sure what to learn next? Browse our full catalog of course categories to find the right fit for your career goals: Agile & Scrum Courses AI Courses Arts and Humanities Courses Business & Management Courses Cloud Computing Courses Computer Science Courses Construction Management Courses Cybersecurity Courses Data Analyst Courses Data Analytics Courses Data Engineering Courses Data Science Courses Design Courses Developer Courses Economics & Finance Courses Education & Teacher Training Courses Entrepreneurship Courses Excel Courses Finance Courses Game Development Courses Graphic Design Courses Health Science Courses Information Technology Courses Language Learning Courses Leadership Courses Lifestyle Courses Machine Learning Courses Marketing Courses Math and Logic Courses Music Courses Negotiation Courses Office Productivity Courses Other Personal Development Courses Photography & Videography Courses Physical Science and Engineering Courses Project Management Courses Python Courses SEO Courses Social Media Marketing Courses Social Sciences Courses Software Development Courses Supply Chain Management Courses Teaching Courses Uncategorized UX Design Courses Web Development Courses Explore related topics Cybersecurity Information Technology Software Development Data Engineering Developer Explore Related Topics Best Cloud Computing Courses Learning Path Best IT & Cloud Courses Cloud Engineer Career Guide Browse All Courses ## User Reviews No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience! ## FAQs What are the prerequisites for AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security? No prior experience is required. AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security is designed for complete beginners who want to build a solid foundation in Cloud Computing. It starts from the fundamentals and gradually introduces more advanced concepts, making it accessible for career changers, students, and self-taught learners. Does AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security offer a certificate upon completion? Yes, upon successful completion you receive a verified certificate from Amazon Web Services. This credential can be added to your LinkedIn profile and resume, demonstrating verified skills to employers. In competitive job markets, having a recognized certificate in Cloud Computing can help differentiate your application and signal your commitment to professional development. How long does it take to complete AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security? The course takes approximately 4 weeks to complete. It is offered as a free to audit course on EDX, which means you can learn at your own pace and fit it around your schedule. The content is delivered in English and includes a mix of instructional material, practical exercises, and assessments to reinforce your understanding. Most learners find that dedicating a few hours per week allows them to complete the course comfortably. What are the main strengths and limitations of AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security? AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security is rated 8.5/10 on our platform. Key strengths include: clear explanation of the aws shared responsibility model; practical insights into network isolation techniques; comprehensive coverage of monitoring with cloudwatch and guardduty. Some limitations to consider: limited hands-on lab experience; no graded assessments in audit track. Overall, it provides a strong learning experience for anyone looking to build skills in Cloud Computing. How will AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security help my career? Completing AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security equips you with practical Cloud Computing skills that employers actively seek. The course is developed by Amazon Web Services, whose name carries weight in the industry. The skills covered are applicable to roles across multiple industries, from technology companies to consulting firms and startups. Whether you are looking to transition into a new role, earn a promotion in your current position, or simply broaden your professional skillset, the knowledge gained from this course provides a tangible competitive advantage in the job market. Where can I take AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security and how do I access it? AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security is available on EDX, one of the leading online learning platforms. You can access the course material from any device with an internet connection — desktop, tablet, or mobile. The course is free to audit, giving you the flexibility to learn at a pace that suits your schedule. All you need is to create an account on EDX and enroll in the course to get started. How does AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security compare to other Cloud Computing courses? AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security is rated 8.5/10 on our platform, placing it among the top-rated cloud computing courses. Its standout strengths — clear explanation of the aws shared responsibility model — set it apart from alternatives. What differentiates each course is its teaching approach, depth of coverage, and the credentials of the instructor or institution behind it. We recommend comparing the syllabus, student reviews, and certificate value before deciding. What language is AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security taught in? AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security is taught in English. Many online courses on EDX also offer auto-generated subtitles or community-contributed translations in other languages, making the content accessible to non-native speakers. The course material is designed to be clear and accessible regardless of your language background, with visual aids and practical demonstrations supplementing the spoken instruction. Is AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security kept up to date? Online courses on EDX are periodically updated by their instructors to reflect industry changes and new best practices. Amazon Web Services has a track record of maintaining their course content to stay relevant. We recommend checking the "last updated" date on the enrollment page. Our own review was last verified recently, and we re-evaluate courses when significant updates are made to ensure our rating remains accurate. Can I take AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security as part of a team or organization? Yes, EDX offers team and enterprise plans that allow organizations to enroll multiple employees in courses like AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security. Team plans often include progress tracking, dedicated support, and volume discounts. This makes it an effective option for corporate training programs, upskilling initiatives, or academic cohorts looking to build cloud computing capabilities across a group. What will I be able to do after completing AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security? After completing AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security, you will have practical skills in cloud computing that you can apply to real projects and job responsibilities. You will be prepared to pursue more advanced courses or specializations in the field. Your verified certificate credential can be shared on LinkedIn and added to your resume to demonstrate your verified competence to employers. ## Similar Courses Other courses in Cloud Computing Courses ![Getting Started with Security Command Center Enterprise Course](/api/media/file/hero/getting-started-with-security-command-center-enterprise-course.webp?width=480) EDX Cybersecurity Courses ### Getting Started with Security Command Center Enterprise Course ★★★★½ EDX View Course » Enroll ![Cybersecurity Job Search and Interviews: Getting Started Course](/api/media/file/hero/cybersecurity-jobs-course.webp?v=2?width=480) Coursera Cybersecurity Courses ### Cybersecurity Job Search and Interviews: Getting Started Course ★★★★☆ Coursera View Course » Enroll ![Getting Started with Google Kubernetes Engine Course](/api/media/file/hero/getting-started-with-google-kubernetes-engine-course.webp?width=480) Coursera Cloud Computing Courses ### Getting Started with Google Kubernetes Engine Course ★★★★½ Coursera View Course » Enroll ![Getting started with Google Workspace Specialization Course](/api/media/file/images/2025/07/Getting-started-with-Google-Workspace-Specialization.webp?width=480) Coursera Information Technology Courses ### Getting started with Google Workspace Specialization Course ★★★★½ Coursera View Course » Enroll ![Getting Started with Go Course](/api/media/file/hero/getting-started-with-go-course.webp?width=480) Coursera Computer Science Courses ### Getting Started with Go Course ★★★★½ Coursera View Course » Enroll ![Getting Started with Microsoft Excel Course](/api/media/file/images/2025/05/Getting-Started-with-Microsoft-Excel-1.webp?width=480) Coursera Excel Courses ### Getting Started with Microsoft Excel Course ★★★★½ Coursera View Course » Enroll ## Related Job Opportunities ### High School Teacher Asian College Of Teachers is a trading brand of TTA Training Pvt. Ltd Warszawa, PL Full-Time PLN 54–86/yr ### Alternance chargé(e) de communication & marketing produit SaaS - Paris (F/H) OKTOGONE Paris, FR Full-Time ### Bautechnik Freileitungsmast Planung Infrastruktur (m/w/d) 50Hertz Transmission GmbH Berlin, DE Full-Time ### Ingenieur Energietechnik als Projektmanager Inbetriebnahme & Dokumentation (m/w/d) 50Hertz Transmission GmbH Berlin, DE Full-Time ### IT Governance Compliance Managerin (m/w/d) 50Hertz Transmission GmbH Berlin, DE Full-Time Browse more jobs on JobsNearMe.career → ### Explore Related Categories All Cloud Computing Courses Explore Course Reviews Security Courses ### Review: AWS: Getting Started with Cloud Security Your Name * Email (optional, not displayed) Rating * Your Review * ### Discover More Course Categories Explore expert-reviewed courses across every field Data Science Courses AI Courses Python Courses Machine Learning Courses Web Development Courses Cybersecurity Courses Data Analyst Courses Excel Courses UX Design Courses Project Management Courses SEO Courses Agile & Scrum Courses Business Courses Marketing Courses Software Dev Courses Browse all 10,000+ courses »