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Cloud Computing Foundations

Noah Gift

Welcome to the first course in the Building Cloud Computing Solutions at Scale Specialization! In this course, you will learn how to build foundational Cloud computing infrastructure, including websites involving serverless technology and virtual machines. You will also learn how to apply Agile software development techniques to projects which will be useful in building portfolio projects and global-scale Cloud infrastructures.

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Welcome to the first course in the Building Cloud Computing Solutions at Scale Specialization! In this course, you will learn how to build foundational Cloud computing infrastructure, including websites involving serverless technology and virtual machines. You will also learn how to apply Agile software development techniques to projects which will be useful in building portfolio projects and global-scale Cloud infrastructures.

This course is ideal for beginners as well as intermediate students interested in applying Cloud computing to data science, machine learning and data engineering. Students should have beginner level Linux and intermediate level Python skills. For your project in this course, you will build a statically hosted website using the Hugo framework, AWS Code Pipelines, AWS S3 and GitHub.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Getting Started with Cloud Computing Foundations
This week, you will learn how to access the free tiers of three Cloud environments. You will then have an opportunity to review the details of the final project in this course: Building a Hugo Static Website that is Continuously Deployed using AWS Code Build and AWS S3 Static Hosting. Each week, you will learn and build upon key Cloud development skills to prepare you for this final course project.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches industry-leading Cloud computing practices and tools
Has an ideal difficulty level for both beginners and intermedate learners
Taught by leading experts in Cloud development, Noah Gift
Follows an Agile software development workflow
Builds a foundation in Cloud computing fundamentals
Covers the entire process of developing, deploying, and managing Cloud applications

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive cloud computing foundations with hands-on aws

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundational understanding of cloud computing, particularly excelling in its hands-on activities with AWS. Many found the multi-cloud overview across AWS, Azure, and GCP to be a unique strength, offering a broad perspective. Students often highlighted the utility of the practical projects, especially the Hugo static website built with AWS S3 and Code Pipelines, which serves as an excellent portfolio piece. However, some learners noted the prerequisites in Linux and Python might be more demanding than expected, leading to a steep learning curve for true beginners. There are occasional mentions of lab setup challenges and a debate over the value of the technical communication module. Overall, it's considered a valuable starting point for a cloud career.
A unique module providing valuable soft skills, though some find it unexpected.
"The technical communication week was a bit unexpected but surprisingly useful for my project planning."
"The 'technical communication' week felt completely out of place and ate into valuable time that could have been used for more cloud specifics."
"As a seasoned professional, the technical communication module was surprisingly valuable for improving my soft skills in a technical context."
Course provides broad multi-cloud exposure but sacrifices depth in any single provider.
"While it mentions AWS, Azure, and GCP, the practical exercises lean heavily on AWS."
"The content tries to cover too much (three clouds!) without enough depth in any single one."
"The course covers a lot, perhaps too much. While I appreciate the multi-cloud approach, it meant each topic felt a bit rushed."
Provides valuable real-world application through engaging labs and a key final project.
"The hands-on labs with Hugo and AWS S3 were incredibly practical and helped solidify my understanding."
"The final project helped me build a practical portfolio piece that I can show potential employers."
"I found this course really helpful for connecting the dots between theory and practice in cloud using AWS tools."
Offers a comprehensive overview of core cloud concepts across major providers.
"Excellent foundational course! It covers AWS, Azure, and GCP, giving a broad overview of cloud services without getting bogged down in specifics."
"A solid intro to cloud computing. I appreciated the breadth of topics, especially touching on three major cloud providers."
"This course truly excels at providing a broad foundation across cloud platforms, perfect for understanding the landscape."
Learners occasionally face difficulties with lab environments and outdated instructions.
"I also found some of the lab instructions slightly outdated, requiring me to troubleshoot on my own."
"Lab setups were frequently problematic, wasting a lot of time. I ran into credential issues multiple times."
"Some labs were a bit finicky, but overall a great learning experience once past initial setup hurdles."
Requires stronger Linux and Python skills than advertised for a smooth experience.
"I felt the Python prerequisite was a bit understated; some parts required stronger scripting skills than a 'beginner' might have."
"Disappointed. The course is called 'foundations' but the prerequisites are too high. I struggled with the Linux and Python parts."
"Just be prepared to do some self-study on any pre-req gaps, especially for Linux commands and Python scripting."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Cloud Computing Foundations with these activities:
Review Cloud Computing Foundations
Familiarize yourself with the core concepts of cloud computing, such as infrastructure, platforms, and services.
View Cisco A Beginner's Guide, Fifth Edition on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read Chapter 1 of the book.
  • Create a diagram outlining the different layers of a cloud computing architecture.
  • Summarize the main benefits and challenges of cloud computing.
Practice Python Scripting
Sharpen your Python skills and prepare for more advanced cloud development tasks.
Browse courses on Python Programming
Show steps
  • Solve Python coding challenges on platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode.
  • Write a Python script to automate a simple task, such as file manipulation or data analysis.
Explore AWS Cloud Services
Get familiar with the wide range of cloud services offered by AWS, such as EC2, S3, and Lambda.
Browse courses on AWS Services
Show steps
  • Watch video tutorials on key AWS services.
  • Complete hands-on labs provided by AWS.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Build a Static Hugo Website
Gain hands-on experience building a real-world website using the Hugo framework, AWS S3, and GitHub.
Show steps
  • Install Hugo and set up a new project.
  • Create a simple website layout and content.
  • Deploy the website to AWS S3 using GitHub Actions.
Join a Study Group
Connect with other students, discuss course materials, and solve problems together in a collaborative setting.
Browse courses on Collaborative Learning
Show steps
  • Find a study group on platforms like Discord or Slack.
  • Schedule regular meetings to discuss course topics.
Build a Cloud-Based Data Processing Pipeline
Apply your cloud computing knowledge to a practical project by building a data processing pipeline that can handle large datasets.
Browse courses on Data Processing Pipelines
Show steps
  • Design the architecture of the pipeline, including data sources, transformation steps, and output.
  • Implement the pipeline using cloud services such as AWS Glue or Azure Data Factory.
  • Test and evaluate the performance of the pipeline.

Career center

Learners who complete Cloud Computing Foundations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Cloud Engineer
Cloud Engineers design, build, and maintain cloud-based applications and infrastructure. This course may be useful for aspiring Cloud Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in cloud computing concepts and technologies. The course covers topics such as cloud service models, DevOps principles, and continuous delivery pipelines, which are all essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Engineer
Web Developer
Web Developers design and develop websites. This course may be helpful for Web Developers who want to learn about cloud computing and how to use it in their web development projects. The course covers topics such as cloud-based development tools, cloud APIs, and cloud security, which are essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
DevOps Engineer
DevOps Engineers combine software development and IT operations to improve the efficiency and quality of software delivery. This course may be helpful for those interested in becoming DevOps Engineers as it covers essential DevOps principles and practices such as continuous integration, continuous delivery, and infrastructure as code.
See salaries and explore the career path for DevOps Engineer
Software Developer
Software Developers design, build, and test software applications. This course may be helpful for Software Developers who want to learn about cloud computing and how to use it in their software development projects. The course covers topics such as cloud-based development tools, cloud APIs, and cloud security, which are essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer
Cloud Security Analyst
Cloud Security Analysts protect cloud-based systems and data from threats and vulnerabilities. This course may be helpful for Cloud Security Analysts who want to learn about cloud computing and how to use it in their security analysis projects. The course covers topics such as cloud security architecture, cloud security monitoring, and cloud security incident response, which are essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Security Analyst
Cloud Architect
Cloud Architects implement, automate, and manage cloud computing resources. This course may be useful for those looking to get into Cloud Architecture as it provides a foundation in cloud computing infrastructure, including websites involving serverless technology and virtual machines. The course also covers Agile software development techniques, which are essential for building cloud-based applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Architect
IT Manager
IT Managers plan, implement, and manage IT systems and infrastructure. This course may be helpful for aspiring IT Managers as it provides a foundation in cloud computing, which is becoming increasingly important for IT professionals. The course covers topics such as cloud service models, cloud security, and cloud cost management, which are essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Manager
Software Architect
Software Architects design and develop software systems. This course may be helpful for Software Architects who want to learn about cloud computing and how to use it in their software designs. The course covers topics such as cloud service models, cloud security, and cloud cost management, which are essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Architect
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers design, implement, and manage complex systems, including hardware, software, and networks. This course may be helpful for Systems Engineers who want to learn about cloud computing and how to use it in their systems designs. The course covers topics such as cloud service models, cloud security, and cloud cost management, which are essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers build and maintain machine learning models for various applications. This course may be helpful for Machine Learning Engineers who want to use cloud computing for their projects. The course covers topics such as cloud-based machine learning platforms, data storage, and model deployment, which are essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and edit technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and training materials. This course may be helpful for Technical Writers who want to learn about cloud computing and how to use it in their documentation. The course covers topics such as cloud service models, cloud security, and cloud cost management, which are essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Product Manager
Product Managers plan and manage the development and launch of new products. This course may be helpful for Product Managers who want to learn about cloud computing and how to use it in their product development process. The course covers topics such as cloud service models, cloud security, and cloud cost management, which are essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Business Analyst
Business Analysts analyze business needs and develop solutions to improve business processes. This course may be helpful for Business Analysts who want to learn about cloud computing and how to use it in their business analysis projects. The course covers topics such as cloud service models, cloud security, and cloud cost management, which are essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use data to solve business problems and improve decision-making. This course may be useful for Data Scientists looking to leverage cloud computing for data science applications. The course covers topics such as cloud-based data storage, processing, and machine learning, which are essential for success in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make informed decisions. This course may be helpful for Data Analysts who want to learn about cloud computing and how to use it in their data analysis projects. The course covers topics such as cloud-based data storage, processing, and visualization, which are essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Cloud Computing Foundations.
Cover image
Cloud Computing: A Practical Approach
Save
This comprehensive book covers all aspects of cloud computing, from infrastructure and services to security and governance. It provides a practical grounding in cloud concepts and technologies.
Cloud Computing, A Practical Approach
Paperback
$$
Cloud Computing: A Practical Approach
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Cloud Computing
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of cloud computing concepts, technologies, and architectures. It useful reference for understanding the fundamentals of cloud computing and how it can be used to build scalable and reliable applications.
Cloud Computing: Concepts, Technology &...
Hardcover
$$
(中文) Cloud Computing: Concepts. Technology and...
Paperback
$$
Cloud Computing: Concepts, Technology &...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Functional Design
Save
Given the course's focus on applying Agile software development techniques, this book provides a foundational understanding of Agile principles and practices. It is useful for learners seeking to enhance their Agile knowledge and skills.
Functional Design: Principles, Patterns, and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Cloud Native Java
Save
Given the course's focus on building cloud-native applications, this book provides guidance on designing and developing cloud-native Java applications using Spring Boot, Kubernetes, and cloud services. It is suitable for learners seeking to build scalable and resilient cloud applications.
Cloud Native Java: Designing Resilient Systems with...
Paperback
$$$
Cloud Native Java: Designing Resilient Systems with...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The DevOps Handbook
Save
This beginner-friendly book introduces the concepts and practices of DevOps, offering practical guidance on implementing DevOps in real-world scenarios. It is valuable for learners seeking an accessible introduction to DevOps.
The DevOps Handbook: How to Create World-Class...
Paperback
$$
The DevOps Handbook: How to Create World-Class...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Data Governance
Save
Provides a high-level overview of Google Cloud Platform services, discussing their capabilities and use cases. It is useful for learners seeking to understand the offerings of Google Cloud Platform and how they can be leveraged for various cloud computing scenarios.
Data Governance
Paperback
Check
Data Governance
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Cloud Security and Privacy
Save
Provides a concise overview of cloud computing, covering topics such as cloud architecture, cloud services, and cloud security. It useful reference for beginners who want to learn more about cloud computing.
Cloud Security and Privacy: An Enterprise...
Paperback
$$
Cloud Security and Privacy: An Enterprise...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Solving Urban Infrastructure Problems Using Smart...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of cloud computing, covering topics such as cloud architecture, cloud services, and cloud security. It useful reference for students and professionals who want to learn more about cloud computing.
Solving Urban Infrastructure Problems Using Smart...
Paperback
$$$$
Solving Urban Infrastructure Problems Using Smart...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
A First Course on Cloud-Based Microservices
Save
Provides a hands-on approach to cloud computing, covering topics such as cloud architecture, cloud services, and cloud development. It useful reference for developers who want to learn how to build and manage cloud applications.
A First Course on Cloud-Based Microservices
Paperback
Check
A First Course on Cloud-Based Microservices
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Cloud Computing
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of cloud computing, covering topics such as cloud architecture, cloud services, and cloud security. It useful reference for students and professionals who want to learn more about cloud computing.
Cloud Computing: Theory and Practice
Paperback
$$$
Cloud Computing: Theory and Practice
Paperback
$$$
Cloud Computing: Theory and Practice
Kindle Edition
$$$
(中文) Cloud Computing: Principles. Applications....
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Cloud Computing
Save
Provides a business perspective on cloud computing, covering topics such as cloud economics, cloud governance, and cloud risk management. It useful reference for business leaders who want to learn more about cloud computing and how to use it to improve their business.
Cloud Computing
Paperback
Check
Cloud Computing
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Study Guide With...
Save
Provides a practical guide to cloud computing for IT professionals, covering topics such as cloud architecture, cloud services, and cloud security. It useful reference for IT professionals who want to learn more about cloud computing and how to use it to improve their IT infrastructure.
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Study Guide With...
Paperback
$$
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Study Guide With...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Essentials of Cloud Computing
Save
Provides a systems perspective on cloud computing, covering topics such as cloud architecture, cloud services, and cloud security. It useful reference for students and professionals who want to learn more about cloud computing and how it can be used to build scalable and reliable systems.
Essentials of Cloud Computing
Paperback
Check
Essentials of Cloud Computing
Kindle Edition
Check

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Effort
5 weeks of study, 3-5 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Duke University
Instructor
Noah Gift
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша
This course belongs to a collection called Building Cloud Computing Solutions at Scale. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Cloud Machine Learning Engineering and MLOps
  2. Cloud Virtualization, Containers and APIs
  3. Cloud Data Engineering
  4. Cloud Computing Foundations (viewing)
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches industry-leading Cloud computing practices and tools
Has an ideal difficulty level for both beginners and intermedate learners
Taught by leading experts in Cloud development, Noah Gift
Follows an Agile software development workflow
Builds a foundation in Cloud computing fundamentals
Covers the entire process of developing, deploying, and managing Cloud applications
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