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Application Development using Microservices and Serverless

Alex Parker

Welcome to this introductory course on microservices and serverless, essential technologies for cloud native and application modernization workloads.

Rather than building large applications, known as monoliths, that perform all the functionality, microservices break down larger applications into smaller pieces that are independently maintainable and scalable, providing a host of benefits. This architecture is now used in the largest software organizations in the world, because it provides cost benefits, team autonomy, and other advantages.

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Welcome to this introductory course on microservices and serverless, essential technologies for cloud native and application modernization workloads.

Rather than building large applications, known as monoliths, that perform all the functionality, microservices break down larger applications into smaller pieces that are independently maintainable and scalable, providing a host of benefits. This architecture is now used in the largest software organizations in the world, because it provides cost benefits, team autonomy, and other advantages.

Likewise, serverless has emerged as an increasingly popular compute option in the cloud era. Giving developers and operators the ability to run applications without managing underlying infrastructure.

In this course, you will create microservices using various methodologies. You will create REST APIs using Python and Flask. Next, you will learn the basics of Serverless applications, and how to run your applications on the IBM Cloud Code Engine.

The course contains several hands-on labs which allow you to practice and apply the content you learn in the course.

In the final project, you will create a front-end application composed of several microservices and deploy them on the Cloud using serverless.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Microservices

In this module, you will learn methodologies to follow while creating microservices. Learn the best practices for your application’s development, deployment, and operation stages. Also, understand how microservices allow you to independently design, deploy, and scale them while avoiding a single point of failure in your architecture. And finally, get an insight into different anti-patterns to avoid while designing microservices-based applications.

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Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Provides a comprehensive overview of industry leading concepts and practices

Provides strong foundational knowledge for beginners in microservices and serverless

Has real-world applications through hands-on labs and exercises

Instructors are recognized experts in their field

Covers both microservices and serverless, providing a comprehensive understanding of modern cloud-native architectures

Introduces Serverless frameworks and tools such as IBM Cloud Code Engine

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Reviews summary

Microservices & serverless with ibm cloud

According to learners, this course offers a solid and practical introduction to microservices and serverless application development. Many highlight the hands-on labs and final project as particularly effective for learning to deploy applications using Python and Flask on IBM Cloud Code Engine. While some older reviews noted outdated dependencies or a steep learning curve for IBM Cloud specifics, more recent feedback indicates the course has been updated and improved, making for a smoother experience. It's largely seen as a strong foundational course, though more advanced learners might desire greater depth.

Course uses IBM Cloud, which can be a strength or a specific focus.

"Just be prepared for IBM Cloud specifics, it's very focused on their ecosystem."

"I found the IBM Cloud specific instructions sometimes confusing if you're used to other cloud providers."

"It effectively teaches deployment on IBM Cloud Code Engine, which is useful if you're already on that platform."

"While useful, it's quite tied to IBM Cloud, which might not be ideal for everyone."

Recent updates have improved course timeliness and lab functionality.

"The course has been updated! I took it last year... now the labs are smoother and content feels more current."

"Great job addressing previous feedback and refreshing the material."

"Glad to see recent improvements; it makes the labs much less frustrating."

"I noticed some older issues mentioned were resolved, demonstrating active maintenance."

Provides a solid introduction to microservices and serverless concepts.

"Good introduction to microservices and serverless. The Python/Flask examples were helpful."

"It covers essential concepts clearly... A must for modern app dev."

"This course provided me with a strong foundation in using microservices for modern application development."

"Helped solidify my understanding of the core principles of serverless."

The course offers highly practical hands-on labs and a final project.

"The hands-on labs using IBM Cloud Code Engine were incredibly practical."

"Absolutely loved the practical focus and the real-world application through the final project. It's a great stepping stone."

"The demos and labs were key to my understanding. I now feel confident to start building such applications."

"The hands-on coding and projects are the strongest part of the course for me."

Offers a solid foundation, but may lack depth for advanced users.

"Good for beginners, but not much depth for advanced users."

"Still wish for more in-depth advanced topics and optimization techniques."

"Expected more universal concepts, not just IBM Cloud, and a deeper dive."

"Could use more coverage on complex topics like distributed tracing or security."

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 Application Development using Microservices and Serverless with these activities:

Organize Course Materials

Show steps

Set up a dedicated space to organize course materials, including notes, assignments, and other resources.

Show steps

Create a folder or notebook for the course.
Organize materials by module or topic.
Maintain a clear and consistent naming convention.

Write REST APIs in Python

Show steps

Practice creating REST APIs using Python to reinforce your understanding of the REST architecture and improve your coding skills.

Browse courses on Python

Show steps

Create a virtual environment for your project.
Install Flask and its dependencies.
Define a simple RESTful API using Flask.
Implement GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE requests.
Test your API using Postman or a similar tool.

Microservices Workshop

Show steps

Attend a hands-on workshop to develop practical skills in implementing microservices with containers, using popular tools and technologies.

Show steps

Research and identify a suitable microservices workshop.
Register for the workshop and make arrangements to attend.
Actively participate in the workshop sessions and exercises.
Ask questions and clarify concepts with instructors and fellow participants.
Complete any follow-up activities or assignments after the workshop.

One other activity

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all four activities

Build a Serverless Microservice

Show steps

Follow an online tutorial to build a complete microservice using Cloud Code Engine, gaining hands-on experience with serverless development.

Browse courses on Serverless Computing

Show steps

Create an IBM Cloud account.
Install the IBM Cloud CLI.
Create a Cloud Code Engine deployment.
Deploy your microservice code to Cloud Code Engine.
Test your microservice by sending HTTP requests.

Career center

Learners who complete Application Development using Microservices and Serverless will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Full-Stack Developer

Full Stack Developers can benefit from this course, as it covers both front-end and back-end development concepts related to microservices. They will gain knowledge in designing and implementing RESTful APIs, leveraging serverless computing, and deploying applications on the Cloud. The course's emphasis on best practices and anti-patterns in microservices development will help them build robust and scalable applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Full-Stack Developer

Cloud Developer

Cloud Developers may find this course particularly useful. It will assist them in grasping the concepts of deploying and operating applications using serverless architectures and microservices. By learning about the IBM Cloud Code Engine, they can leverage its capabilities to automate tasks, reduce infrastructure management overhead, and optimize resource utilization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Developer

Application Developer

For Application Developers, this course can provide a solid foundation in microservices and serverless architectures. They will learn the principles of designing, developing, and deploying scalable and maintainable applications using these technologies. The hands-on labs and real-world examples will help Application Developers gain practical experience in implementing microservices and serverless functions, enabling them to contribute effectively to modern software development projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Application Developer

Web Developer

Web Developers may find this course particularly beneficial, as it covers concepts and technologies essential for modern web development. They will gain a deep understanding of microservices and serverless architectures, enabling them to build scalable, high-performance web applications. The course's focus on REST APIs and GraphQL will provide a solid foundation for designing and implementing efficient and user-friendly APIs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Backend Developer

Backend Developers can enhance their skills and knowledge in microservices and serverless computing through this course. They will learn the principles of designing, developing, and deploying scalable and maintainable backend systems using these technologies. The hands-on labs provide a valuable opportunity for Backend Developers to apply these concepts practically, enabling them to effectively build and manage complex backend services.

See salaries and explore the career path for Backend Developer

Technical Lead

Technical Leads can enhance their knowledge and skills in microservices and serverless computing through this course. They will gain a deeper understanding of the architectural principles, design patterns, and best practices associated with these technologies. The hands-on labs provide a valuable opportunity for Technical Leads to apply these concepts practically, enabling them to effectively lead and mentor development teams in building and deploying scalable, reliable, and maintainable software solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Lead

Cloud Architect

Cloud Architects can benefit from this course by gaining a comprehensive understanding of microservices and serverless architectures in the context of cloud computing. They will be able to design and implement scalable, resilient, and cost-effective cloud solutions that leverage the benefits of these technologies. The course's focus on industry best practices and use cases will provide valuable insights for Cloud Architects as they navigate the complexities of cloud adoption and modernization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Architect

Frontend Developer

Frontend Developers may find this course useful, as it covers the development of front-end applications that interact with microservices and serverless functions. They will gain a foundational understanding of REST APIs, GraphQL, and the principles of microservices architecture. By completing this course, Frontend Developers can expand their skillset and become more valuable members of modern development teams.

See salaries and explore the career path for Frontend Developer

Software Engineer

For Software Engineers, this course may be helpful in enhancing their skills in designing and developing cloud-native applications. By understanding the benefits and challenges of microservices and serverless architectures, they can make informed decisions when choosing the right approach for different scenarios. Additionally, the hands-on labs in this course provide practical experience in implementing and deploying microservices on the IBM Cloud, which aligns with the responsibilities of a Software Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

DevOps Engineer

For DevOps Engineers, this course can provide valuable insights into the deployment and management of microservices and serverless applications. They will learn about the challenges and best practices of continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines for microservices, enabling them to streamline the software development lifecycle. The hands-on experience gained through this course will also enhance their ability to collaborate effectively with development teams.

See salaries and explore the career path for DevOps Engineer

Solutions Architect

Solutions Architects can benefit from this course by gaining a comprehensive understanding of microservices and serverless architectures. They will be able to effectively evaluate the suitability of these technologies for different business requirements, design and implement scalable solutions, and guide organizations in their cloud adoption journey. The course's focus on industry best practices and use cases will provide valuable insights for Solutions Architects as they navigate complex technical decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Solutions Architect

Software Architect

Software Architects may find this course beneficial in expanding their knowledge of microservice architectures and serverless computing. They will gain insights into the design principles, trade-offs, and best practices involved in these technologies. The course's emphasis on building robust, scalable, and maintainable software systems aligns with the responsibilities of a Software Architect. By understanding the concepts and practices covered in this course, Software Architects can effectively guide development teams in designing and implementing complex software solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Architect

Data Engineer

Data Engineers may find this course helpful, as it provides an introduction to microservices and serverless architectures. They will learn how to leverage these technologies to process and manage data in a scalable and efficient manner. The course's focus on REST APIs and GraphQL will provide valuable insights into designing and implementing data pipelines that integrate with modern applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer

Systems Software Developer

A Systems Software Developer may find the concepts in this course helpful, as it covers some of the competencies they use in their day to day work such as designing, developing, testing, and maintaining system software. By getting familiar with the microservice architecture model, REST APIs, and serverless computing, they will be able to build complex enterprise system software. Although a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field is usually necessary to get started in this role, continued professional development is vital for a career within this field and this course may help build a foundation for future growth.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Software Developer

Data Scientist

Although not directly related to their primary responsibilities, Data Scientists may find this course interesting and potentially useful. They will learn about microservices and serverless architectures, which can be beneficial for building and deploying data-intensive applications. The course's focus on REST APIs and GraphQL will provide valuable insights into designing and implementing data-centric APIs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Reading list

We've selected seven 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 Application Development using Microservices and Serverless .

Cover image

Cover image

Building Microservices

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Provides a comprehensive overview of microservices architecture, including design principles, implementation strategies, and best practices. It highly recommended read for anyone who wants to learn more about microservices.

Building Microservices: Designing Fine-Grained...

Building Microservices: Designing Fine-Grained...

Building Microservices: Designing Fine-Grained...

Building Microservices

Cover image

Cover image

Microservices Patterns

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Provides a collection of proven patterns for designing and implementing microservices-based systems. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to build scalable, reliable, and maintainable microservices.

Microservices Patterns: With examples in Java

Microservices Patterns: With examples in Java

Cover image

Cover image

Getting Started with Docker

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Provides a comprehensive overview of Docker, including how to use it to build, deploy, and manage microservices. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about Docker and how to use it to build microservices-based systems.

Getting Started with Docker

Getting Started with Docker

Cover image

Cover image

Docker Deep Dive

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Provides a comprehensive overview of Kubernetes, including how to use it to deploy and manage microservices. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about Kubernetes and how to use it to build microservices-based systems.

Docker Deep Dive

Docker Deep Dive

Cover image

Cover image

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Provides a comprehensive overview of Istio, including how to use it to manage microservices. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about Istio and how to use it to build microservices-based systems.

Cover image

Cover image

Mastering API Architecture

Save

Provides a high-level overview of the microservice architecture. It good starting point for anyone who is new to microservices.

Mastering API Architecture

Mastering API Architecture

Cover image

Cover image

Serverless Architectures on AWS, Second Edition

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Provides a comprehensive overview of serverless architectures on AWS. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about serverless computing on AWS.

Serverless Architectures on AWS, Second Edition

Serverless Architectures on AWS, Second Edition

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Course image

Effort

4 weeks of study, approximately 8 hours total

Level

Intermediate

Via

Coursera

Institution

IBM

Instructor

Alex Parker

Language

English

Transcripts

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Application Development using Microservices and Serverless belongs to the following collections:

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Provides a comprehensive overview of industry leading concepts and practices

Provides strong foundational knowledge for beginners in microservices and serverless

Has real-world applications through hands-on labs and exercises

Instructors are recognized experts in their field

Covers both microservices and serverless, providing a comprehensive understanding of modern cloud-native architectures

Introduces Serverless frameworks and tools such as IBM Cloud Code Engine

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