What is our primary use case?
My main use cases for CloudLabs are training, experimenting, software development, and learning. I use it for training, experiments, software development, practice, and learning. CloudLabs is integrated with GCP, AWS, and Microsoft Azure, allowing me to do real-time examples without any local installation.
A specific example of a training I ran using CloudLabs was during my participation in the Google ADK, which is the Agent Development Kit program. I took the entire training on CloudLabs, where I needed to create AI agents in a multi-agent system, and all the agents were connected using the A2A protocol. I exposed the MCP server, but I did not need to do any local installation. The entire training was based on CloudLabs, which provides a virtual cloud-based environment for training.
My use case with CloudLabs includes a unique aspect where I log into a web portal to start my training, which opens a VS Code IDE with a terminal. I can execute my commands and code and conduct hands-on training without installing anything on my system. Even if I have a system with low RAM or an old configuration, it still works seamlessly as it operates in the cloud, making it very easy to learn.
What is most valuable?
The best features CloudLabs offers, in my opinion, include being cloud-based and accessible from anywhere, which eliminates the need for local installation. It is cost-effective, and unlike other training platforms that focus solely on teaching, CloudLabs provides hands-on learning in a realistic environment that is easy for anyone to understand. Additionally, it has progress tracking for monitoring my completion and assignments that are designed as small tests after modules, which are optional.
The hands-on learning feature in CloudLabs is exceptional compared to other platforms where learning is primarily theoretical, with trainers explaining concepts. CloudLabs provides labs integrated with GCP, AWS, and Microsoft Azure, allowing users to create their own work in a cloud environment without needing local installation. For example, I created multiple agents that interacted with each other all within the cloud environment.
CloudLabs has positively impacted my organization by allowing everyone to get hands-on training. Without CloudLabs, we could only do training without practical experience. Now, I gain hands-on experience without significant installations on my systems, enhancing the knowledge of my teammates and everyone in my organization. It has also reduced hardware costs, which is a beneficial aspect.
What needs improvement?
CloudLabs is perfect for me, and I have no suggestions for improvement. It is very easy to learn compared to other platforms in the market. However, there could be advantages to adding AI-powered assistance or a chatbot within the application to help with questions not covered in the training modules. That would be a great addition.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have been using CloudLabs for around two years and two months.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
CloudLabs is stable in my experience.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
In terms of scalability, CloudLabs is highly scalable. I have seen around 150 users using it concurrently in my organization.
How are customer service and support?
My experience with customer support was positive. I had an issue where my VM machine got stuck during training, and after reaching out to support, they resolved the issue quickly.
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
Before switching to CloudLabs, I used LinkedIn Learning and Udemy, but they lacked integrated labs for hands-on coding, which made the learning process less effective.
What was our ROI?
I have seen a return on investment in terms of time saved. As a senior developer, if I handled setup independently, it would take a lot of time, but with CloudLabs, I can save approximately eight to nine hours per training session.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
My experience with the pricing, setup cost, and licensing of CloudLabs has been positive. The facilities provided are worth the cost. CloudLabs does not charge more than is reasonable given the value, and if more users join, the cost per user decreases.
Which other solutions did I evaluate?
I did not evaluate other options beyond Udemy, as I found it lacked essential lab features.
What other advice do I have?
CloudLabs has saved considerable time. As a senior software engineer, if I had to install everything locally, it would take considerable time. Instead, the environment is already set up, so I can write and execute code quickly. I estimate that it saves around eight to nine hours for each training, and for multiple trainings, that time saved can multiply.
My advice for others looking into using CloudLabs is to follow the provided steps carefully. CloudLabs breaks down the process into small, manageable steps, and skipping steps in a hurry can lead to getting stuck. It is important to follow each step since they are all essential.
CloudLabs is the best in the market for labs and hands-on experience. I would rate this review as five out of five.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
Public Cloud
If public cloud, private cloud, or hybrid cloud, which cloud provider do you use?
Google