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Eric Keller

In Network Principles in Practice: Cloud Networking, you will learn about both the networking abstractions and services for building applications in the cloud, and the technology underlying cloud networking. You will be able to architect complex applications in the cloud. In understanding how the cloud providers created their networks, you will be in a better position to troubleshoot applications and analyze different possible ways of architecting applications, and even help design the next generation of networking for cloud providers.

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In Network Principles in Practice: Cloud Networking, you will learn about both the networking abstractions and services for building applications in the cloud, and the technology underlying cloud networking. You will be able to architect complex applications in the cloud. In understanding how the cloud providers created their networks, you will be in a better position to troubleshoot applications and analyze different possible ways of architecting applications, and even help design the next generation of networking for cloud providers.

This course can be taken for academic credit as part of CU Boulder’s Masters of Science in Computer Science (MS-CS) degrees offered on the Coursera platform. This fully accredited graduate degree offer targeted courses, short 8-week sessions, and pay-as-you-go tuition. Admission is based on performance in three preliminary courses, not academic history. CU degrees on Coursera are ideal for recent graduates or working professionals. Learn more:

MS in Computer Science: https://coursera.org/degrees/ms-computer-science-boulder

Course logo by Jordan Harrison on Unsplash.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Cloud Background
This week will introduce cloud networking. In the beginning of the module, we will explore the basics of cloud computing, including virtualization and data center architectures. Then, we will focus on practical implementation through creating and managing cloud resources using Google Cloud Platform (GCP) and Terraform.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores cloud infrastructure and architecture, a rapidly growing field with high demand in industry, giving learners a chance to fill in-demand roles
Taught by Eric Keller, an instructor at the University of Colorado with extensive experience in software engineering
Can be applied to an accredited Masters of Science in Computer Science degree from the University of Colorado Boulder
Provides an introduction to SDN, a foundational concept in modern networking
Covers multiple industry-leading platforms like Terraform and Google Cloud
Develops practical skills through hands-on labs where learners deploy multiple VPCs and establish WAN connectivity

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Reviews summary

Practical cloud networking with gcp & terraform

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in cloud networking principles, particularly for those focusing on Google Cloud Platform (GCP). Many commend the practical, hands-on labs using Terraform as a significant strength, enabling real-world application of concepts. The instructor's clear explanations and expertise are frequently highlighted as highly beneficial. While the course is lauded as excellent for beginners, some more experienced students suggest that certain modules could delve into greater depth or that the initial pace might be a bit slow for those with existing networking knowledge. Earlier feedback noted some lab environment challenges, but recent reviews indicate a largely positive experience, suggesting potential improvements.
Balance of theoretical deep dives and practical application.
"The content is generally good, but I found some parts, particularly around the deep dive into Google's Andromeda, a bit too theoretical and not immediately practical."
"I was hoping for more practical troubleshooting scenarios."
"The theoretical parts were well explained. I enjoyed the modules on network services like load balancing."
Instructor's knowledge and clear explanations are highly praised.
"The instructor was clear and knowledgeable. I now feel confident in architecting complex applications in the cloud."
"The instructor explains everything step-by-step. I'm now much more comfortable with GCP networking."
"The instructor's expertise shines through, and the practical exercises solidify the concepts."
Features highly valued hands-on labs using GCP and Terraform.
"The labs with Terraform were immensely helpful for hands-on experience."
"As someone completely new to cloud networking, the hands-on labs with Terraform made it easy to grasp complex concepts."
"I appreciate the practical use of GCP. The labs were practical. It's a challenging but rewarding experience."
Provides comprehensive, practical cloud networking principles.
"This course provided an incredibly solid foundation in cloud networking, especially focusing on GCP."
"A good overview of network principles in the cloud. The explanations of VPCs and SDN were thorough."
"This course is essential for anyone looking to understand cloud networking with a focus on GCP. It's a comprehensive and current resource."
Earlier feedback noted challenges with lab setup and bugs.
"I found the explanations sometimes rushed, and the lab instructions could have been clearer, especially for the WAN module. I struggled with some of the Terraform setups."
"Very disappointed. The lab environments were buggy, and it made it hard to follow along. I spent more time troubleshooting the setup than learning."
Pace suitable for beginners, but some desired more advanced depth.
"My only minor gripe is that sometimes the pace felt a bit slow if you already had some basic networking knowledge. However, for beginners, it's perfect."
"I felt it could have gone a bit deeper into advanced topics for experienced professionals. Maybe some more complex design patterns would be beneficial."
"As someone completely new to cloud networking, this course was a godsend. Excellent for beginners!"

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 Network Principles in Practice: Cloud Networking with these activities:
Review networking fundamentals
Refreshes knowledge of essential networking concepts, providing a strong foundation for the course.
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  • Review basic network components and topologies
  • Understand different types of network protocols
  • Practice configuring basic network devices
Follow Online Tutorials on VPCs and Cloud Interconnections
Expand your knowledge and gain hands-on experience with VPCs and cloud interconnections by following guided online tutorials.
Browse courses on VPCs
Show steps
  • Identify reputable online platforms offering tutorials
  • Select tutorials that align with your learning goals
  • Follow the instructions and complete the exercises provided
Attend Cloud Networking Workshop
Sharpen your understanding of cloud networking concepts and technologies by attending a specialized workshop.
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant workshops
  • Register for the workshop
  • Attend all sessions and actively participate
12 other activities
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Explore Microsoft's Virtual Network documentation
Deepen your knowledge of Microsoft Azure's Virtual Network by reviewing its official documentation.
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  • Read the overview and concepts articles
  • Follow the tutorials on creating and managing virtual networks
Follow tutorials on cloud networking platforms
Provides hands-on experience with cloud networking platforms, reinforcing concepts learned in the course.
Browse courses on Cloud Networking
Show steps
  • Choose a cloud networking platform (e.g., AWS, Azure)
  • Follow tutorials on creating and managing virtual networks
  • Explore advanced features like load balancers and content delivery networks
  • Practice troubleshooting and optimizing cloud networks
Organize course materials and notes
Facilitates efficient review and retention of course content.
Show steps
  • Gather and organize lecture notes, readings, and assignments
  • Create a study guide or outline
  • Review materials regularly to reinforce understanding
Join a Cloud Networking Study Group
Enhance your understanding and retention of cloud networking concepts through collaborative learning and discussions with peers.
Show steps
  • Find or create a study group with fellow students
  • Establish regular meeting times
  • Review course materials, discuss concepts, and work on assignments together
Use Terraform to Configure Cloud Networking Resources
Enhance your proficiency in Terraform by practicing the configuration of cloud networking resources.
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Show steps
  • Set up a Terraform environment
  • Create Terraform scripts to define and manage cloud networking resources
  • Execute Terraform scripts to provision and manage resources
Create Terraform configurations
Reinforce your understanding of cloud networking concepts and Terraform by creating configurations from scratch.
Browse courses on Cloud Networking
Show steps
  • Set up a Terraform workspace for GCP
  • Define VPC and subnet resources
  • Configure network and security settings
  • Provision the infrastructure
Participate in online study groups or forums
Provides opportunities for collaboration, peer support, and discussion, enhancing understanding and retention.
Browse courses on Networking
Show steps
  • Join online study groups or forums related to cloud networking
  • Actively participate in discussions and share insights
  • Collaborate on projects or assignments
  • Seek support and guidance from peers
Develop a Cloud Networking Glossary
Solidify your understanding of cloud networking terminology by creating a comprehensive glossary of key concepts.
Show steps
  • Review course materials and identify key terms
  • Research and define each term comprehensively
  • Organize the glossary alphabetically or by topic
Participate in a hackathon focused on cloud networking
Test your skills and collaborate with others by joining a hackathon that challenges you to design and implement cloud networking solutions.
Browse courses on Cloud Networking
Show steps
  • Identify an appropriate hackathon
  • Form a team or work independently
  • Develop and present your solution
Solve network design and troubleshooting challenges
Strengthens problem-solving skills and enhances understanding of network design principles.
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Show steps
  • Identify common network design challenges
  • Practice designing and optimizing network architectures
  • Simulate network problems and troubleshoot issues
Write a blog post or article on a cloud networking topic
Promotes active recall and strengthens understanding by requiring students to synthesize and explain concepts.
Browse courses on Cloud Networking
Show steps
  • Choose a specific cloud networking topic
  • Research and gather information from credible sources
  • Organize and outline the content
  • Write a well-structured and engaging article
Mentor junior students or fellow learners
Reinforces concepts by explaining and assisting others, promoting a deeper understanding.
Browse courses on Cloud Networking
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to mentor others
  • Prepare and organize resources or materials
  • Provide guidance, support, and feedback
  • Encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing

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