51 GCP Interview Questions to Hire an Expert

Hiring the right Google Cloud Platform (GCP) talent is crucial for organizations looking to leverage cloud technologies effectively. Asking the right interview questions helps recruiters and hiring managers identify candidates with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in GCP roles.

This blog post provides a comprehensive list of GCP interview questions tailored for different experience levels and areas of expertise. From general concepts to security features, we cover a wide range of topics to help you assess candidates thoroughly.

By using these questions, you can gain valuable insights into a candidate's GCP proficiency and problem-solving abilities. Consider complementing your interviews with a GCP skills assessment to ensure a well-rounded evaluation of potential hires.

Table of contents

8 general GCP interview questions and answers

To help you assess whether your candidates have the essential knowledge and skills for working with Google Cloud Platform, we've put together a list of 8 general GCP interview questions. These questions will provide you with insights into the candidate's understanding of GCP and their ability to leverage its features effectively.

1. Can you explain the key differences between IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS in the context of Google Cloud Platform?

IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) provides virtualized computing resources over the internet. In GCP, this is exemplified by services like Google Compute Engine, which offers virtual machines, storage, and network capabilities.

PaaS (Platform as a Service) offers hardware and software tools over the internet, typically used for application development. Google App Engine is a good example, providing a platform for developers to build and deploy applications without managing underlying infrastructure.

SaaS (Software as a Service) delivers software applications over the internet, on a subscription basis. Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) is an example, offering cloud-based productivity and collaboration tools.

Look for clear distinctions and examples from GCP. Ideal candidates will not only define each term but also provide GCP-specific services as examples, demonstrating their practical understanding.

2. How does Google Cloud's global network benefit businesses?

Google Cloud's global network helps businesses by providing low-latency, high-speed connectivity across different regions. This ensures that applications and services perform efficiently, no matter where users are located.

The network's global reach also allows for improved redundancy and disaster recovery options, with data and applications easily replicated across multiple locations. This leads to higher availability and reliability for business operations.

You should look for candidates who appreciate the importance of network performance and reliability in cloud services. They should mention specific benefits like low latency and redundancy, and ideally provide real-world examples.

3. What are the main benefits of using Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE)?

Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE) offers several benefits including automated operations, seamless scaling, and robust security features. GKE automates tasks like cluster provisioning, upgrading, and repairing, which simplifies cluster management.

GKE also supports horizontal scaling, allowing applications to handle varying loads by adding or removing pods automatically. Additionally, GKE integrates well with other Google Cloud services, enhancing security through features like IAM and VPC-native clusters.

Ideal answers should highlight automation, scalability, and security as key benefits. Candidates should also demonstrate an understanding of GKE's integration with other Google Cloud services and how this enhances overall cloud security and performance.

4. Can you discuss the importance of IAM (Identity and Access Management) in GCP?

IAM in GCP is critical for managing who has access to specific resources and what they can do with those resources. It allows administrators to define roles and permissions, ensuring that only authorized users can access and modify resources.

IAM helps in maintaining security and compliance by providing detailed audit logs of who accessed what and when. It also supports principle of least privilege, which minimizes the risk of unintentional data exposure or modification.

Look for candidates who understand the security implications of IAM. They should be able to explain how IAM controls access and ensures compliance, providing examples of roles and permissions management in GCP.

5. What is the purpose of Google Cloud Storage, and how does it differ from Google Drive?

Google Cloud Storage is designed for storing large amounts of unstructured data such as objects and blobs. It's widely used for enterprise-level data storage, backup, and archiving.

Google Drive, on the other hand, is a cloud storage service primarily for personal and team use, offering collaboration tools and integration with Google's productivity suite. It's more user-friendly and geared towards everyday file sharing and document editing.

Candidates should distinguish between the enterprise use case of Google Cloud Storage and the personal/team collaboration focus of Google Drive. They should mention the scalability and robustness of Google Cloud Storage for large datasets.

6. How do you monitor and manage costs in GCP?

GCP provides several tools to monitor and manage costs, such as the Google Cloud Console, Billing Reports, and Cost Management tools. Users can set up budgets and alerts to track spending and receive notifications when costs exceed predefined thresholds.

Additionally, GCP offers detailed usage reports and cost breakdowns by project, service, and resource, allowing for granular analysis and optimization of cloud spending.

Look for candidates who can outline specific tools and strategies for cost management in GCP. They should mention the importance of setting up budgets and alerts, as well as using detailed reports for cost optimization.

7. What is Google BigQuery, and what are its primary use cases?

Google BigQuery is a fully managed, serverless data warehouse that enables fast SQL queries using the processing power of Google's infrastructure. It's designed for analyzing large datasets quickly and efficiently.

Primary use cases for BigQuery include real-time analytics, business intelligence, and data warehousing. It is often used to perform complex queries on massive datasets, integrate with tools like Data Studio for visualization, and handle data from multiple sources seamlessly.

Candidates should explain BigQuery's capabilities and provide relevant use cases. Ideal responses will demonstrate an understanding of how BigQuery fits into the broader data analytics and business intelligence landscape.

8. Can you explain the concept of 'regions' and 'zones' in Google Cloud Platform and why they are important?

In GCP, a 'region' is a specific geographical location where users can run resources, while a 'zone' is an isolated location within a region. Each region contains multiple zones.

Regions and zones are important for high availability and disaster recovery. By deploying applications and resources across multiple zones or regions, businesses can ensure redundancy and minimize the risk of downtime due to localized failures.

Look for candidates who understand the geographical distribution of GCP resources and the significance of using multiple zones and regions for redundancy and reliability. They should be able to articulate how this architecture contributes to high availability and disaster recovery.

10 GCP interview questions to ask junior developers

To effectively gauge the technical skills of junior developers in Google Cloud Platform, consider using these targeted interview questions. This list can help you identify candidates who understand the core functionalities and can apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. For additional insights, check out our cloud engineer job description.

1. What is Google Cloud Pub/Sub, and how does it facilitate communication between applications?
2. Can you describe the process of deploying a web application on Google App Engine?
3. How would you implement a continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipeline in GCP?
4. What is the role of Google Cloud Functions, and when would you use them?
5. How can you secure your GCP resources against unauthorized access?
6. What are the different types of Google Cloud databases, and when would you choose one over the others?
7. Can you explain the concept of load balancing in GCP and its importance?
8. How do you utilize Google Cloud IAM roles and policies to manage permissions?
9. What is the purpose of Google Cloud VPC, and how does it enhance network security?
10. How can you automate resource management in GCP using Infrastructure as Code?

10 intermediate GCP interview questions and answers to ask mid-tier developers

Ready to level up your GCP interview game? These 10 intermediate questions are perfect for assessing mid-tier developers' understanding of Google Cloud Platform. They'll help you gauge candidates' practical knowledge and problem-solving skills without diving too deep into the technical weeds. Use these questions to spark insightful discussions and uncover how well your cloud engineer candidates can navigate real-world GCP scenarios.

1. How would you design a highly available and scalable application architecture in GCP?

A strong answer should include the following key components:

• Use of multiple regions and zones for redundancy

• Implementation of load balancing across instances

• Utilization of autoscaling groups to handle traffic spikes

• Integration of managed services like Cloud SQL for databases

• Implementation of a content delivery network (CDN) for static assets

Look for candidates who can explain the rationale behind each component and how they work together to ensure high availability and scalability. Follow up by asking about potential trade-offs or considerations when implementing such an architecture.

2. Explain the concept of 'least privilege' in GCP and how you would implement it.

The principle of least privilege is a security best practice that involves granting users or services only the minimum permissions necessary to perform their required tasks. In GCP, this is primarily implemented through Identity and Access Management (IAM).

A good answer should include:

• Using predefined IAM roles where possible

• Creating custom roles for specific needs

• Implementing service accounts for applications and services

• Regularly auditing and reviewing access permissions

• Using temporary credentials or time-bound access when appropriate

Look for candidates who understand the balance between security and usability, and can discuss real-world scenarios where they've applied this principle.

3. How would you approach migrating an on-premises application to GCP?

A comprehensive answer should outline a structured approach:

1. Assessment: Analyze the current infrastructure and application dependencies

2. Planning: Choose the appropriate GCP services and design the target architecture

3. Proof of Concept: Test a small portion of the application in GCP

4. Data Migration: Transfer data using appropriate methods (e.g., Transfer Appliance, Data Transfer Service)

5. Application Migration: Move application components, potentially refactoring for cloud-native services

6. Testing and Optimization: Ensure functionality and performance in the new environment

7. Cutover: Switch traffic to the GCP-hosted application

8. Post-Migration: Monitor, optimize, and potentially modernize further

Evaluate candidates based on their ability to consider various aspects of migration, including potential challenges and risk mitigation strategies. Their approach should demonstrate an understanding of both cloud architecture and practical implementation concerns.

4. Describe how you would set up a CI/CD pipeline in GCP for a microservices architecture.

A strong answer should include the following components:

• Source Control: Using Cloud Source Repositories or integrating with GitHub/GitLab

• Build: Implementing Cloud Build for automated building and testing

• Containerization: Using Docker and storing images in Container Registry

• Deployment: Utilizing Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE) for orchestration

• Continuous Deployment: Implementing Cloud Deploy for managed, progressive delivery

• Monitoring and Logging: Setting up Cloud Monitoring and Cloud Logging

Look for candidates who can explain how these components work together and discuss strategies for handling multiple environments (dev, staging, prod). They should also mention considerations like secrets management and environment-specific configurations.

5. How would you optimize costs in a GCP environment without compromising performance?

A comprehensive answer should cover various aspects of cost optimization:

• Right-sizing resources: Using appropriate machine types and adjusting based on actual usage

• Implementing autoscaling to match capacity with demand

• Utilizing preemptible or spot VMs for non-critical, interruptible workloads

• Leveraging committed use discounts for predictable workloads

• Using Cloud Storage classes appropriately (e.g., Nearline, Coldline for infrequently accessed data)

• Implementing proper tagging and labeling for cost allocation and tracking

• Regularly reviewing and acting on cost optimization recommendations

Evaluate candidates based on their ability to balance cost-saving measures with performance requirements. Look for those who can discuss real-world examples of implementing these strategies and measuring their impact.

6. Explain the concept of 'shared VPC' in GCP and when you would use it.

Shared VPC, also known as XPN (Cross-Project Networking), allows an organization to connect resources from multiple projects to a common Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) network, enabling internal communication and shared network configuration.

Key points to cover:

• Centralized network management across multiple projects

• Improved security through consistent firewall rules and network policies

• Simplified billing and cost allocation for network resources

• Ability to maintain separation of projects while sharing common network resources

Candidates should be able to discuss scenarios where Shared VPC is beneficial, such as in large organizations with multiple departments or teams, or in environments with strict compliance requirements. Look for understanding of the trade-offs, such as increased complexity in management and potential impact on project isolation.

7. How would you approach disaster recovery planning in GCP?

A comprehensive disaster recovery (DR) plan in GCP should cover the following aspects:

1. Define Recovery Point Objective (RPO) and Recovery Time Objective (RTO)

2. Implement multi-region deployment for critical applications

3. Use Cloud Storage with multi-regional buckets for data redundancy

4. Set up automated backups using services like Cloud SQL automated backups

5. Implement database replication (e.g., Cloud Spanner's multi-region configuration)

6. Use Deployment Manager or Terraform for infrastructure as code

7. Set up monitoring and alerting with Cloud Monitoring

8. Regularly test and update the DR plan

Look for candidates who understand the balance between cost and resilience, and can discuss different DR strategies (hot, warm, cold) based on business requirements. They should also be able to explain how they would validate the effectiveness of a DR plan.

8. Describe how you would secure data in transit and at rest in GCP.

A comprehensive answer should cover both data in transit and at rest:

Data in Transit:

• Use of HTTPS/TLS for all external connections

• Implementing VPN for secure connections between on-premises and GCP

• Utilizing Cloud Interconnect for dedicated, private connections

• Enabling encryption in transit for Google Cloud services

Data at Rest:

• Using Cloud KMS (Key Management Service) for managing encryption keys

• Implementing default encryption for Cloud Storage, Persistent Disks, and databases

• Utilizing Customer-Managed Encryption Keys (CMEK) for additional control

• Implementing data access controls through IAM

Look for candidates who can explain the importance of end-to-end encryption and discuss potential vulnerabilities or challenges in implementing these security measures. They should also be aware of compliance requirements that might influence data security strategies.

9. How would you approach performance tuning for a BigQuery-based data warehouse?

A strong answer should cover various aspects of BigQuery optimization:

1. Query Optimization:

• Use appropriate partitioning and clustering

• Avoid SELECT * and only query necessary columns

• Utilize appropriate JOIN techniques (e.g., broadcast joins for small tables)

• Use approximate aggregation functions when exact precision isn't required

2. Schema Design:

• Denormalize data when appropriate to reduce JOINs

• Use nested and repeated fields effectively

3. Data Ingestion:

• Batch inserts for better performance

• Use appropriate file formats (e.g., Avro, Parquet) for external data

4. Cost Optimization:

• Set up table expiration and data retention policies

• Use BigQuery BI Engine for frequently accessed subsets of data

Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of BigQuery's architecture and how it differs from traditional databases. Look for those who can discuss trade-offs between query performance and cost, and strategies for monitoring and continuously improving performance.

10. Explain the concept of 'serverless' in GCP and provide examples of when you would use serverless solutions.

Serverless computing in GCP refers to the ability to build and run applications without having to manage the underlying infrastructure. Key characteristics include automatic scaling, pay-per-use billing, and no server management.

Examples of serverless solutions in GCP:

• Cloud Functions: For event-driven, short-lived computations

• Cloud Run: For containerized applications that can scale to zero

• App Engine: For web applications and backends

• BigQuery: For serverless data warehousing

• Cloud Dataflow: For serverless data processing pipelines

Candidates should be able to discuss scenarios where serverless is beneficial, such as variable workloads, microservices architectures, or event-driven applications. Look for understanding of both the advantages (reduced operational overhead, improved scalability) and potential drawbacks (cold starts, vendor lock-in) of serverless approaches.

15 GCP interview questions about processes and tasks

To assess candidates' practical skills and problem-solving abilities in Google Cloud Platform, use these process-oriented questions. They help evaluate a candidate's hands-on experience and cloud engineer capabilities. These questions are designed to uncover how well applicants can apply GCP concepts in real-world scenarios.

1. How would you set up a multi-region disaster recovery plan for a critical application in GCP?
2. Describe the process of implementing a blue-green deployment strategy using Google Kubernetes Engine.
3. How would you design a data pipeline to ingest, process, and analyze large volumes of streaming data in GCP?
4. Explain the steps to set up a private Google Kubernetes Engine cluster with limited public internet access.
5. How would you implement a custom machine learning model using Google Cloud AI Platform?
6. Describe the process of setting up a hybrid cloud environment connecting on-premises infrastructure with GCP.
7. How would you optimize the performance of a Cloud Spanner database experiencing high read latency?
8. Explain the steps to implement a zero-trust security model for a multi-tier application in GCP.
9. How would you design and implement a data lake solution using Google Cloud Storage and BigQuery?
10. Describe the process of setting up a global content delivery network using Google Cloud CDN.
11. How would you migrate a large-scale on-premises Hadoop cluster to Google Cloud Dataproc?
12. Explain the steps to implement a multi-region active-active architecture for a web application in GCP.
13. How would you set up end-to-end encryption for data in transit and at rest across GCP services?
14. Describe the process of implementing a canary release strategy for a microservices application in GKE.
15. How would you design and implement a real-time fraud detection system using GCP's data analytics services?

8 GCP interview questions and answers related to security features

Securing your cloud environment is paramount. To help you gauge your candidates' understanding of GCP's security features, we've compiled a list of essential questions that you can use during your interviews. This list is perfect for identifying candidates with a solid grasp of GCP's security mechanisms and best practices.

1. How do you ensure data security in GCP?

To ensure data security in GCP, it's important to utilize a multi-layered approach. This includes encrypting data at rest and in transit, using Identity and Access Management (IAM) to define who can do what, and employing regular audits and monitoring for any suspicious activities.

Candidates should mention using encryption keys managed by Google or customer-managed encryption keys for added control. Additionally, they should discuss the importance of setting up proper network security through Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) configurations and firewall rules.

Look for candidates who demonstrate a thorough understanding of GCP's built-in security features along with a proactive approach to maintaining data security.

2. What are GCP's best practices for securing API access?

Securing API access in GCP involves implementing several best practices. Firstly, use OAuth 2.0 for secure authorization. Secondly, set up API keys and restrict them to specific IP addresses or referrer URLs. It's also crucial to monitor and log API calls for any unusual activity.

Candidates should highlight the importance of using service accounts with minimal permissions necessary and rotating credentials regularly to mitigate risks. They might also mention setting up proper identity policies to ensure that only authorized services and users have access to APIs.

An ideal response would include a multi-faceted approach to API security, combining identity management, monitoring, and restricting access to ensure robust security.

3. How do you handle security compliance in GCP?

Handling security compliance in GCP requires understanding and adhering to various regulatory standards relevant to your industry, such as GDPR, HIPAA, or SOC 2. GCP provides tools like Cloud Security Command Center (Cloud SCC) to help monitor and manage compliance.

Candidates should talk about using GCP's compliance offerings like audit logs, which provide detailed records of every action taken in the cloud environment. They might also mention using third-party compliance tools integrated with GCP for more comprehensive coverage.

Look for candidates who can demonstrate practical knowledge of using GCP's tools to meet compliance requirements, and who understand the importance of continuous monitoring and auditing.

4. What are some key features of GCP's Identity and Access Management (IAM)?

GCP's Identity and Access Management (IAM) allows you to control who has what access to which resources. Key features include defining roles and assigning them to users, groups, or service accounts, and setting policies at resource levels to enforce least privilege access.

Candidates should mention the use of predefined roles for common tasks and custom roles for more specific access needs. Additionally, they should discuss the importance of regularly reviewing and updating IAM policies to adapt to changing security requirements.

Strong responses will cover a balance between security and usability, emphasizing the need for precise access controls while avoiding overly restrictive policies that could hinder productivity.

5. How can you secure a GCP Virtual Private Cloud (VPC)?

Securing a GCP VPC involves multiple measures: setting up firewall rules to restrict inbound and outbound traffic, utilizing private Google Access to limit exposure to the internet, and implementing VPC Service Controls to define security perimeters.

Candidates might also discuss using network segmentation to isolate different workloads and using Cloud Armor for DDoS protection. They should highlight the importance of regular audits and monitoring to ensure that the VPC's security posture remains robust.

An ideal candidate will demonstrate familiarity with GCP's various network security features and a strategic approach to maintaining a secure and resilient VPC environment.

6. What strategies would you use to manage and secure service accounts in GCP?

Managing and securing service accounts in GCP involves following the principle of least privilege by granting only the necessary permissions. Regularly rotating keys and using short-lived credentials can also enhance security.

Candidates should mention using IAM roles to assign permissions to service accounts and employing tools like Workload Identity for secure authentication in Kubernetes environments. They should also discuss monitoring service account activity for any unauthorized actions.

Look for depth in their understanding of service account security, including key rotation practices, permission management, and the use of additional layers of authentication.

7. How would you implement network security in GCP?

Implementing network security in GCP requires a combination of network segmentation, firewall rules, and VPC Service Controls. Using Private Google Access and setting up VPNs or dedicated interconnects for secure connections can further enhance security.

Candidates should discuss the importance of firewall rules to control traffic, using peering and shared VPCs for resource isolation, and employing Cloud Armor for protection against DDoS attacks.

An ideal response will demonstrate an understanding of both the tools GCP offers and strategic approaches to ensure a secure and efficient network setup.

8. What are the key aspects to consider when setting up logging and monitoring in GCP for security purposes?

Setting up logging and monitoring in GCP for security involves enabling Stackdriver Logging and Monitoring to capture detailed logs and metrics. Creating alerts for unusual activity and regularly reviewing logs are essential practices.

Candidates should highlight the use of Cloud Security Command Center (Cloud SCC) for centralized visibility and proactive threat detection. They might also mention integrating third-party security information and event management (SIEM) tools for a comprehensive monitoring strategy.

Look for candidates who can demonstrate practical knowledge of setting up and maintaining a robust logging and monitoring system to detect and respond to security incidents effectively.

Which GCP skills should you evaluate during the interview phase?

In an interview, it’s impossible to assess every aspect of a candidate's skills and experience in a single session. However, certain core competencies related to Google Cloud Platform (GCP) are essential for evaluating a candidate's fit for your technical requirements. Below are key skills that you should prioritize during the interview phase.

GCP Services Knowledge

To gauge a candidate's knowledge of GCP services, consider using an assessment test with relevant MCQs. This can help filter candidates based on their understanding of the platform, such as our GCP Test.

Additionally, you can pose targeted questions during the interview to assess their service-specific expertise.

Can you explain the differences between Google Cloud Storage and Google Cloud Bigtable and the scenarios in which you would use each?

When asking this question, look for clarity in their explanation and their ability to contextualize usage scenarios. A well-rounded answer should reflect an understanding of data models, scalability, and performance considerations.

Cloud Security Practices

You can assess this skill through an MCQ-based test focused on cloud security best practices and GCP-specific security features. While there isn't a dedicated test in our library for this skill, consider creating relevant questions.

To further evaluate their understanding, ask targeted questions regarding security measures.

What are the key security features provided by GCP, and how would you implement them in a project?

When assessing the response, pay attention to their knowledge of Identity and Access Management (IAM), encryption methods, and best practices for securing cloud resources.

Deployment and Automation Skills

Utilizing an assessment test focused on deployment tools and automation strategies can help you identify candidates with the right skill set, such as our DevOps Test.

In addition, consider asking specific questions about their experience with deployment.

Can you describe your experience with continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD) in a GCP environment?

Look for concrete examples that demonstrate their familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, their choice of tools, and how they have overcome challenges during deployment.

Leverage GCP Skills Tests and Interview Questions for Top Talent Acquisition

When hiring a candidate with Google Cloud Platform (GCP) expertise, it's important to verify their skills accurately. Assessing a candidate's capability in handling real-world GCP tasks ensures they meet your project requirements.

The best way to gauge these skills is through targeted skills tests. Our Google Cloud Platform (GCP) Test can help you evaluate the candidates' proficiency in GCP before you even meet them.

After administering the test, you can efficiently shortlist the top performers. This streamlines your hiring process, allowing you to focus your interview efforts on candidates who have already demonstrated strong GCP capabilities.

Ready to find your next GCP expert? Start by signing up for our platform. Explore our test library for more specialized skill assessments and enhance your recruitment strategy today.

Download GCP interview questions template in multiple formats

Download image Download PDF

Download TXT

GCP Interview Questions FAQs