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Umakishore Ramchandran

This course provides an introduction to data center networking technologies, more specifically software-defined networking. It covers the history behind SDN, description of networks in data-centers, a concrete data-center network architecture (Microsoft VL2), and traffic engineering.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview & Introduction
This module is a general introduction to cloud computing to set the tone for the technical details to follow in the later modules: What is the origin of cloud computing? Why now? The introduction will cover the current service models in Cloud computing, the Marketplace, and some of the technological challenges with Cloud computing
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Evolution of Data Center Networks
This module covers the evolution of data center networks, including the origins of software defined networking and the networking technology prevalent today in data centers. The module also discusses the traffic engineering challenges specific to data center networks.
Data Center Network Example
This module presents one example of a data center network, namely, Azure’s VL2. It starts with a general overview of the design principles for data center networks that laid the foundation for the specific design decisions in VL2, which is the foundation for how Azure’s data center networking is architected today.
DC Networking: Testing, Debugging, and Traffic Evaluation
This module covers topics including metrics for network performance evaluation, tools for testing and debugging DC networks, measurement, and case studies of analyzing DC network traffic.
Project
This module is a hands-on project to familiarize the student with implementing an SDN controller and testing the performance of traffic engineering rules using Ryu.

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Taught by Umakishore Ramchandran, who are recognized for their work in Software Defined Networking (SDN)
Covers the history, evolution, and design principles of data center networks, including Microsoft's VL2 architecture
Provides hands-on experience with implementing an SDN controller and testing traffic engineering rules
Suitable for learners interested in data center networking, cloud computing, and software-defined networking
Covers topics relevant to industry practices in data center networking
May be beneficial for learners pursuing a career in cloud computing or data center management

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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 Software Defined Networking with these activities:
Review your notes from previous courses on networking and computer architecture
Refresh your knowledge of networking and computer architecture concepts to prepare for this course.
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  • Gather your notes from previous networking and computer architecture courses.
  • Review the notes and identify any areas where you need to brush up on your knowledge.
  • Use online resources, such as tutorials or articles, to fill in any gaps in your knowledge.
Read: Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach
Review key concepts in computer networking to build a stronger foundation for this course.
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  • Read chapters 1 and 2 to gain an overview of computer networks and the Internet.
  • Read chapters 3 and 4 to understand the physical and data link layers.
  • Read chapters 5 and 6 to understand the network and transport layers.
Create a glossary of networking terms
Compile a list of key networking terms and their definitions to improve your understanding and retention of the material.
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  • Review the course materials and identify important networking terms.
  • Define each term in your own words.
  • Organize the terms into a glossary for easy reference.
Eight other activities
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Follow tutorials on SDN traffic engineering
Tutorials will provide you with step-by-step guidance on implementing and optimizing SDN traffic engineering techniques.
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  • Search for tutorials on SDN traffic engineering.
  • Choose a tutorial that aligns with your skill level and learning objectives.
  • Follow the tutorial steps and experiment with the concepts.
Follow Microsoft's Azure Networking Fundamentals Tutorial
Get hands-on experience with Azure networking to reinforce your understanding of the course material.
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  • Create an Azure account and sign in.
  • Follow the tutorial to create a virtual network, subnet, and virtual machine.
  • Configure network security groups and route tables.
Join a study group or online forum for the course
Connect with other students to discuss the course material, ask questions, and share insights.
Browse courses on Data Center Networking
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  • Join a study group or online forum dedicated to the course.
  • Participate in discussions and ask questions about the material.
  • Share your own knowledge and insights with other students.
Solve practice questions on SDN architectures
Practice questions will help you reinforce your understanding of SDN architectures and their components.
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  • Identify a reliable source for practice questions.
  • Set aside dedicated time for practicing.
  • Attempt the practice questions and review your answers.
Simulate a software-defined network (SDN) using Mininet
Gain practical experience with SDN by building and simulating your own SDN network.
Show steps
  • Install Mininet and the necessary dependencies.
  • Create a simple network topology using Mininet.
  • Configure and test the SDN controller.
  • Evaluate the performance of your SDN network.
Write a blog post or article on SDN fundamentals
Creating content will help you synthesize and consolidate your understanding of SDN fundamentals by explaining them to others.
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  • Choose a specific aspect of SDN fundamentals to focus on.
  • Research the topic thoroughly and gather relevant information.
  • Write a well-structured and informative blog post or article.
  • Proofread and edit your content.
Solve LeetCode problems on networking
Test your understanding of networking concepts and algorithms by solving coding problems.
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  • Identify LeetCode problems related to networking, such as finding the shortest path in a graph or implementing a router.
  • Solve the problems using your knowledge of networking and data structures.
  • Review your solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Design and present a data center network architecture
Apply your knowledge of data center networking to design and present a network architecture for a specific scenario.
Browse courses on Data Center Networking
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  • Identify the requirements and constraints of the data center.
  • Research and evaluate different network architectures.
  • Design a network architecture that meets the requirements.
  • Present your design to an audience.

Career center

Learners who complete Software Defined Networking will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
SDN Architect
An SDN Architect designs and implements SDN-based networks. An understanding of SDN technologies and traffic engineering, as taught in this course, provides a solid foundation for success in this role. This course can help you develop the skills needed to design, implement, and manage SDN networks, making you a more competitive candidate for SDN Architect positions.
Data Center Network Engineer
A Data Center Network Engineer designs, implements, and maintains data center networks. This course provides a deep dive into the specific challenges and technologies used in data center networks, making it highly relevant to this role. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to troubleshoot and optimize data center networks, increasing your competitiveness in the job market.
Computer Network Architect
A Computer Network Architect designs, implements, and maintains computer networks. The knowledge of data center networking technologies, SDN, and traffic engineering gained in this course can help you build a foundation for success in this role. This course can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the latest networking technologies and best practices, enabling you to design and manage complex computer networks effectively.
Network Analyst
A Network Analyst analyzes and troubleshoots computer networks. The knowledge of SDN technologies and traffic engineering gained in this course can be valuable for this role. This course can help you develop the skills needed to diagnose and resolve network issues, making you a more effective Network Analyst.
Cloud Architect
A Cloud Architect designs and implements cloud computing solutions. The understanding of data center networking technologies and SDN, as taught in this course, can be useful for this role. This course can help you develop the skills needed to design and manage cloud computing environments, making you a more competitive candidate for Cloud Architect positions.
Network Administrator
A Network Administrator manages and maintains computer networks. The knowledge of SDN technologies and traffic engineering gained in this course can be valuable for this role. This course can help you stay up-to-date with the latest networking technologies and best practices, enabling you to manage and maintain complex networks effectively.
Cloud Engineer
A Cloud Engineer designs, builds, and maintains cloud computing systems. The understanding of data center networking technologies and SDN, as taught in this course, can be beneficial for this role. This course can help you develop the skills needed to design and manage cloud computing environments, making you a more competitive candidate for Cloud Engineer positions.
Network Engineer
A Network Engineer designs, implements, and maintains computer networks. The knowledge of SDN technologies and traffic engineering gained in this course can be valuable for this role. This course can help you stay up-to-date with the latest networking technologies and best practices, enabling you to design, implement, and manage complex networks effectively.
Systems Engineer
A Systems Engineer designs, implements, and maintains computer systems. The understanding of SDN technologies and traffic engineering gained in this course can be beneficial for this role. This course can help you develop the skills needed to design, implement, and manage complex systems, making you a more competitive candidate for Systems Engineer positions.
Information Security Analyst
An Information Security Analyst protects computer systems from security threats. The knowledge of SDN technologies and traffic engineering gained in this course can be valuable for this role. This course can help you understand the security implications of SDN and how to implement security measures in SDN-based networks.
DevOps Engineer
A DevOps Engineer collaborates with software developers and IT operations to improve software delivery and infrastructure management. The knowledge of SDN technologies and traffic engineering gained in this course can be valuable for this role. This course can help you understand the networking aspects of software development and deployment, enabling you to collaborate more effectively with network engineers.
IT Manager
An IT Manager plans, implements, and manages IT systems. The knowledge of SDN technologies and traffic engineering gained in this course can be beneficial for this role. This course can help you understand the latest networking technologies and best practices, enabling you to make informed decisions about IT infrastructure and services.
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software applications. While this course is not directly focused on software development, the knowledge of SDN technologies and traffic engineering can be valuable for Software Engineers working on networking-related projects. This course may help you understand the underlying network technologies and how to optimize them for better software performance.
Technical Writer
A Technical Writer creates and maintains technical documentation. While this course is not directly focused on technical writing, the knowledge of SDN technologies and traffic engineering can be valuable for Technical Writers working on documentation related to networking technologies. This course may help you understand the technical concepts and terminology used in networking, enabling you to write more accurate and informative documentation.
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist analyzes and interprets data to extract insights. The understanding of data center networking technologies and traffic engineering gained in this course may be useful for Data Scientists working on projects related to network performance and optimization. This course can provide you with a foundational understanding of network technologies and how they impact data transmission and analysis.

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 Software Defined Networking.
Provides the technical nuts and bolts of SDN, including controller design and OpenFlow programming.
Provides a practical guide to SDN, covering the key concepts, architectures, and protocols involved in SDN.
Provides the fundamental concepts, methodologies, and tools that form the basis for network management.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cloud computing, covering its history, architecture, and applications. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about cloud computing, regardless of their technical background.
Provides a comprehensive overview of data communications and networks, covering their history, architecture, and protocols. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about data communications and networks, regardless of their technical background.
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer networks, covering their history, architecture, and protocols. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about computer networks, regardless of their technical background.
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer networking, covering its history, architecture, and protocols. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about computer networks, regardless of their technical background.
Provides a comprehensive overview of high-performance browser networking, covering its history, architecture, and protocols. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about high-performance browser networking, regardless of their technical background.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the TCP/IP protocol suite, covering its history, architecture, and protocols. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about TCP/IP, regardless of their technical background.
Provides a comprehensive overview of TCP/IP routing, covering its history, architecture, and protocols. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about TCP/IP routing, regardless of their technical background.

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