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Troubleshooting and Debugging Techniques

Google Career Certificates

In this course, we'll give you the tools to quickly identify and solve real-world problems that you might come across in your IT role. We'll look at a bunch of different strategies and approaches for tackling the most common pitfalls of your code and IT infrastructure. You'll learn strategies for approaching almost any technical problem and then see how those apply to solving different real-world scenarios.

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In this course, we'll give you the tools to quickly identify and solve real-world problems that you might come across in your IT role. We'll look at a bunch of different strategies and approaches for tackling the most common pitfalls of your code and IT infrastructure. You'll learn strategies for approaching almost any technical problem and then see how those apply to solving different real-world scenarios.

We picked examples that include general system issues, issues with software that someone else wrote, and issues with programs that we wrote. We'll talk about problems that can affect any operating system, and we'll also look at challenges specific to certain platforms and scripting languages. We strongly recommend that you’ve taken the prior courses in this program, or already have knowledge of Python and Linux so that you can follow along with our troubleshooting examples.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Troubleshooting Concepts
In this module, you’ll be introduced to the fundamentals of troubleshooting and you’ll learn different strategies and approaches to tackle problems that you might encounter. You’ll learn about the concept of debugging and how debugging is one of the core principles of troubleshooting. You’ll be introduced to some tools that will help you in the debugging process, like tcpdump, ps, top, itrace, and lots more. Next, you’ll explore how to “understand the problem.” This might sound like a no brainer, but it's not as easy as you might think! Next, we’ll dive into the different approaches when troubleshooting reproducing errors versus intermittent errors. Finally, you’ll learn about “binary searching a problem.” We’ll explore the different types of searches, including binary and linear searches. Then, we’ll learn about the concept of bisecting and how it can be used in your troubleshooting approach, and finish up with finding invalid data in a CSV file.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Delves into "binary searching a problem", which is a crucial skill for solving complex problems efficiently
Explores various tools and techniques for identifying and resolving slowness issues, such as iotop, iftop, and activity monitor
Provides practical strategies for managing resources, preventing memory leaks, and optimizing disk space and network usage
Focuses on troubleshooting system crashes and application crashes, which are common challenges in IT environments
Emphasizes the importance of communication and documentation during incident handling, promoting effective problem resolution
Suitable for individuals with a basic understanding of Python and Linux, as it builds upon these prerequisites

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Reviews summary

Practical it troubleshooting fundamentals

According to learners, this course on Troubleshooting and Debugging Techniques is largely positive and provides a solid foundation for IT professionals and developers. Students highlight the practical tools and strategies taught, noting they could be applied immediately to their jobs. The course structure covering concepts, slowness, crashes, and resources is seen as logical and easy to follow, with clear explanations and helpful examples using Python and Linux. However, some learners, particularly more experienced engineers, felt the course lacked sufficient depth and found the material or examples too basic.
Examples rely heavily on Python and Linux.
"We strongly recommend that you’ve taken the prior courses in this program, or already have knowledge of Python and Linux so that you can follow along..."
"The Python examples were relevant."
"Heavily relied on Linux/Python, which is fine for those with that background, but less useful otherwise."
Introduces standard troubleshooting tools.
"Using tools like `top` and `ps`."
"The explanations of tools like `tcpdump` were particularly valuable."
"The tools covered are standard, and the explanations are simple."
Concepts presented logically and easy to follow.
"The breakdown of troubleshooting concepts... is logical and easy to follow."
"The structure is logical, moving from concepts to specific problem types (slowness, crashes, resources)."
"I found the course valuable for structuring my approach to debugging. The methodologies taught are solid."
Good for beginners and structured learning.
"It's a solid foundation."
"Good overview of troubleshooting methods."
"This course is a gem! It taught me how to think about problems differently and approach debugging with a clear methodology."
"I gained a solid foundation from completing this course."
Teaches immediately applicable skills.
"It's directly applicable to my job in IT support."
"Provides practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately."
"Gave me immediate actionable insights for my daily tasks."
"I learned how to use practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."
Too basic for experienced professionals.
"Some parts felt a bit basic if you already have some experience, but it's a solid foundation."
"Doesn't go deep enough for experienced engineers."
"The course feels quite basic and doesn't offer much new information if you've been troubleshooting for a while."
"It's a starting point, but not a comprehensive guide."

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 Troubleshooting and Debugging Techniques with these activities:
Review the basics of Python and Linux
This will help you refresh your knowledge of the basics of Python and Linux, which are essential for troubleshooting
Browse courses on Python
Show steps
  • Review your notes from previous courses or online resources
  • Take practice quizzes or exercises to test your understanding
Follow a tutorial on using a specific troubleshooting tool
This will help you learn how to use a specific tool to troubleshoot problems
Browse courses on Troubleshooting
Show steps
  • Find a tutorial on using a specific troubleshooting tool, such as tcpdump or strace
  • Follow the tutorial and learn how to use the tool
Create a collection of troubleshooting resources
This will help you keep all of your troubleshooting resources organized in one place
Browse courses on Troubleshooting
Show steps
  • Create a document or spreadsheet to store your troubleshooting resources
  • Add links to useful websites, articles, and tools
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Discuss troubleshooting techniques with a peer
This will help you learn from others' experiences and perspectives on troubleshooting
Browse courses on Troubleshooting
Show steps
  • Find a peer who is also taking this course
  • Meet with your peer regularly to discuss troubleshooting techniques and share tips
Practice debugging Python code
This will help you improve your ability to find and fix errors in your code
Browse courses on Debugging
Show steps
  • Write a simple Python program with several bugs
  • Use a debugger to step through the program and find the bugs
  • Fix the bugs and test your program to make sure it works correctly
Build a small troubleshooting script
This will help you apply the concepts you learn in the module to a practical scenario
Browse courses on Troubleshooting
Show steps
  • Identify a simple problem that you can troubleshoot, such as checking if a file exists or if a process is running
  • Write a script that uses the concepts you learned in the module to troubleshoot the problem
Contribute to an open-source troubleshooting project
This will give you hands-on experience troubleshooting real-world problems and contributing to the open-source community
Browse courses on Troubleshooting
Show steps
  • Find an open-source troubleshooting project that you are interested in contributing to
  • Read the project documentation and familiarize yourself with the code
  • Find a bug or issue that you can help to fix
  • Submit a pull request with your fix

Career center

Learners who complete Troubleshooting and Debugging Techniques will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Software Engineer
Software Engineers analyze user needs to design, develop, and implement software products and systems. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. This course can be useful for those interested in a career as a Software Engineer because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills are essential for Software Engineers who need to be able to identify and fix problems in their code.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
IT Specialist
IT Specialists provide technical support to users and maintain computer systems and networks. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, education, and healthcare. This course can be useful for those interested in a career as an IT Specialist because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills are essential for IT Specialists who need to be able to identify and fix problems with computer systems and networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Specialist
Database Administrator
Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. This course can be useful for those interested in a career as a Database Administrator because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills are essential for Database Administrators who need to be able to identify and fix problems with databases.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrators manage and maintain computer systems and networks. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. This course can be useful for those interested in a career as a Systems Administrator because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills are essential for Systems Administrators who need to be able to identify and fix problems with computer systems and networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator
Network Engineer
Network Engineers design, implement, and maintain computer networks. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. This course can be useful for those interested in a career as a Network Engineer because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills are essential for Network Engineers who need to be able to identify and fix problems with computer networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer
Security Analyst
Security Analysts protect computer systems and networks from security threats. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. This course can be useful for those interested in a career as a Security Analyst because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills are essential for Security Analysts who need to be able to identify and fix security vulnerabilities.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Analyst
Web Developer
Web Developers design and develop websites. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, marketing, and education. This course can be useful for those interested in a career as a Web Developer because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills are essential for Web Developers who need to be able to identify and fix problems with websites.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
Data Scientist
Data Scientists collect, analyze, and interpret data to extract meaningful insights. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. This course can be useful for those interested in a career as a Data Scientist because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills are essential for Data Scientists who need to be able to identify and fix problems with data analysis.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers design, develop, and implement machine learning models. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. This course can be useful for those interested in a career as a Machine Learning Engineer because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills are essential for Machine Learning Engineers who need to be able to identify and fix problems with machine learning models.
See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer
Software Architect
Software Architects design and develop software systems. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. This course can be useful for those interested in a career as a Software Architect because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills are essential for Software Architects who need to be able to identify and fix problems with software systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Architect
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmers write and maintain computer programs. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. This course can be useful for those interested in a career as a Computer Programmer because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills are essential for Computer Programmers who need to be able to identify and fix problems with computer programs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and maintain technical documentation. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, manufacturing, and healthcare. This course can be useful for those interested in a career as a Technical Writer because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills are essential for Technical Writers who need to be able to identify and fix problems with technical documentation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, consumer goods, and healthcare. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Product Manager because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills can be helpful for Product Managers who need to be able to identify and fix problems with new products.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Project Manager
Project Managers plan and execute projects. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, construction, and manufacturing. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Project Manager because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills can be helpful for Project Managers who need to be able to identify and fix problems with projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Business Analyst
Business Analysts analyze business processes and systems to identify areas for improvement. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Business Analyst because it provides a foundation in troubleshooting and debugging techniques. These skills can be helpful for Business Analysts who need to be able to identify and fix problems with business processes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Reading list

We've selected ten 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 Troubleshooting and Debugging Techniques.
Cover image
The Pragmatic Programmer
Save
Provides practical advice on software development, including tips on debugging and troubleshooting. It covers topics such as code reviews, unit testing, and refactoring.
The Pragmatic Programmer: Your Journey To Mastery,...
Hardcover
$$
Pragmatic Programmer, The: From Journeyman to Master
Kindle Edition
$$
(Italiano) Pragmatic Programmer - Edizione del 20°...
Kindle Edition
$$
(Italiano) Il Pragmatic Programmer: Guida per manovali del...
Kindle Edition
$$
(中文) The Pragmatic Programmer: access to the highest...
Paperback
$$
Pragmatic programmer (Korean Edition)
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Code Complete
Save
Comprehensive guide to software development, covering topics such as design, coding, testing, and maintenance. It includes a chapter on debugging, which provides guidance on finding and fixing bugs.
Code Complete: A Practical Handbook of Software...
Paperback
$$
Code Complete
Paperback
$$
Code Complete (Developer Best Practices)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Effective Java
Save
Provides a set of best practices for writing Java code. It covers topics such as object-oriented design, concurrency, and performance.
Effective Java
Paperback
$$
Effective Java
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Head First Java
Save
Provides a gentle introduction to Java programming. It covers the basics of the language, as well as topics such as object-oriented design and error handling.
Head First Java: A Brain-Friendly Guide
Paperback
$$
Head First Java
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Introduction to Java Programming
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Java programming. It covers the basics of the language, as well as topics such as object-oriented design, data structures, and algorithms.
Introduction to Java Programming and Data...
Paperback
$$$$
Introduction to Java Programming: Brief Version,...
Paperback
$$$$
Introduction to Java Programming and Data Structures
Kindle Edition
$$$
Introduction to Java Programming, AP Version
Hardcover
$$
Introduction to Java Programming and Data...
Product Bundle
$$$
Introduction to Java Programming and Data...
Loose Leaf
$$$
Introduction to Java Programming, Comprehensive...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Introduction to Java Programming, Brief Version...
Paperback
$$
Introduction to Java Programming, (text only) 8th...
Paperback
$$$$
Introduction to Java Programming: Comprehensive...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Atomic Kotlin
Save
Provides a deep dive into the Java programming language. It covers topics such as object-oriented design, generics, and concurrency.
Atomic Kotlin
Paperback
Check
Atomic Kotlin
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Java Virtual Machine Specification, Java SE 8...
Save
Is the definitive guide to the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). It provides a detailed overview of the JVM architecture and how it executes Java code.
The Java Virtual Machine Specification, Java SE 8...
Paperback
Check
The Java Virtual Machine Specification, Java SE 8...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Art of Debugging with GDB, DDD, and Eclipse
Save
Provides a practical guide to debugging with GDB, DDD, and Eclipse. It covers topics such as setting breakpoints, examining variables, and debugging multithreaded programs.
The Art of Debugging with GDB, DDD, and Eclipse
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Debugging
Save
Comprehensive guide to debugging. It covers topics such as error handling, logging, profiling, and unit testing. It also provides guidance on debugging specific types of problems, such as memory leaks and race conditions.
Debugging: The 9 Indispensable Rules for Finding...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
.NET Development Using the Compiler API
Save
Provides a guide to debugging with Visual Studio. It covers topics such as setting breakpoints, examining variables, and debugging multithreaded programs.
.NET Development Using the Compiler API
Paperback
$$
.NET Development Using the Compiler API
Kindle Edition
$$

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Introductory
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Institution
Google
Instructor
Google Career Certificates
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a collection called Google IT Automation with Python. It's comprised of six courses:
  1. Troubleshooting and Debugging Techniques (viewing)
  2. Configuration Management and the Cloud
  3. Using Python to Interact with the Operating System
  4. Crash Course on Python
  5. Automating Real-World Tasks with Python
  6. Introduction to Git and GitHub
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Delves into "binary searching a problem", which is a crucial skill for solving complex problems efficiently
Explores various tools and techniques for identifying and resolving slowness issues, such as iotop, iftop, and activity monitor
Provides practical strategies for managing resources, preventing memory leaks, and optimizing disk space and network usage
Focuses on troubleshooting system crashes and application crashes, which are common challenges in IT environments
Emphasizes the importance of communication and documentation during incident handling, promoting effective problem resolution
Suitable for individuals with a basic understanding of Python and Linux, as it builds upon these prerequisites
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