Introduction to Containers w/ Docker, Kubernetes & OpenShift from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Containers and Containerization

Start your first week by learning about container concepts, features, use cases, and benefits. Building on your new knowledge of containers, you’ll learn what Docker does and discover why Docker is a winner with developers. You’ll learn what Docker is, become acquainted with Docker processes, and explore Docker’s underlying technology. Learn about how developers and organizations can benefit from using Docker and see which situations are challenging for using Docker. Next, learn how to build a container image using a Dockerfile, how to create a running container using that image, become familiar with the Docker command line interface (CLI), and explore frequently used Docker commands. You’ll become knowledgeable about Docker objects, Dockerfile commands, container image naming, and learn how Docker uses networks, storage, and plugins. Then, assimilate this knowledge when you see Docker architecture components in action and explore containerization using Docker. At the end of this first week, you’ll pull an image from a Docker Hub registry. You’ll run an image as a container using Docker, build and tag an image using a Dockerfile, and push that image to a registry. 

Kubernetes Basics

In week two, learn what container orchestration is. Then, explore how developers can use container orchestration to create and manage complex container environment development lifecycles. Kubernetes is currently the most popular container orchestration platform. You’ll examine key Kubernetes architectural components, including control plane components and controllers. Explore Kubernetes objects, and learn how specific Kubernetes objects such as Pods, ReplicaSets, and Deployments work. Then, learn how developers use the Kubernetes command line interface (CLI), or “kubectl” to manipulate objects, manage workloads in a Kubernetes cluster, and apply basic kubectl commands. You’ll be able to differentiate the benefits and drawbacks of using imperative and declarative commands. At the end of this module, you will use the kubectl CLI commands to create resources on an actual Kubernetes cluster. At the end of this week, you’ll use the Kubernetes CLI to create a Kubernetes pod, create a Kubernetes deployment, create a ReplicaSet and see Kubernetes load balancing in action.

Managing Applications with Kubernetes

In week three, you’ll explore ReplicaSets, autoscaling, rolling updates, ConfigMaps, Secrets, and service bindings, and learn how you can use these capabilities to manage Kubernetes applications. You’ll learn how ReplicaSets scale applications to meet increasing demand, and how autoscaling creates dynamic demand-based scaling. You’ll see how to use rolling updates to publish application updates and roll back changes without interrupting the user experience. You’ll learn how to use ConfigMaps and Secrets to provide configuration variables and sensitive information to your deployments and to keep your code clean. At the end of the week, you’ll scale and update applications deployed in Kubernetes.

The Kubernetes Ecosystem: OpenShift, Istio, etc.

In week four, you’ll learn more about the growing Kubernetes ecosystem and explore additional tools that work well with Kubernetes to support cloud-native development. You’ll gain an understanding of the similarities and differences between Red Hat ® OpenShift® and Kubernetes and see what OpenShift architecture looks like. You’ll learn about OpenShift builds and BuildConfigs, and OpenShift build strategies and triggers. You'll also discover how operators can deploy whole applications with ease. Finally, you’ll examine how the Istio service mesh manages and secures traffic and communication between an application’s services. At the end of the week, you’ll use the oc CLI to perform commands on an OpenShift cluster. And you’ll use the OpenShift build capabilities to deploy an application from source code stored in a Git repository.

Final Assignment

For the Final Project, you will put into practice the tools and concepts learned in this course, and deploy a simple guestbook application with Docker and Kubernetes.The entire application will be deployed and managed on OpenShift.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Builds fundamentals that serve as a strong foundation for learners with no prior knowledge of containerization

Taught by instructors recognized for their work in containerization, Upkar Lidder and Alex Parker

Develops skills and knowledge that are highly sought after in the job market

May require learners to purchase additional tools or software

Reviews summary

Containers with docker, kubernetes, openshift

learners say this course is largely positive for beginners who want to learn about containers, Kubernetes, Docker, and OpenShift. Many students mention that the engaging assignments and hands-on labs were very helpful in cementing their understanding of the difficult exams and theoretical concepts. According to reviews, this course is well received by those new to the field with some prior experience. Some reviewers say that the lectures could be improved, and that the final project is difficult due to outdated instructions. Note that reviewers praise the instructors and the deadlines are reasonable, but that the certificates are not mentioned in any of the reviews.

Engaging hands-on labs reinforce concepts.

"The hands-on lab exercise helped me in understanding the code in a better way."

Excellent course for beginners.

"Great course for beginners and intermediate developers to gain knowlege on container technology"

Lectures delivered by a robotic voice.

"The information provided only gives a superficial overview of the topics and cannot fully help in understanding them."

"This is not a course. It's just a demo to show that Docker is good! You will learn nothing from a narrator who I don't know if they are human or AI."

Some technical difficulties with labs.

"The final project is an absolute mess and is impossible to complete."

"Some problems in final exam, and instructions was not as clear as one gotten used to."

Outdated final project instructions.

"The final project is with bugs so it is hard to complete."

"The final project connections were extremely unreliable and it was a struggle to wait for everything to work to finish the source."

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 Introduction to Containers w/ Docker, Kubernetes & OpenShift with these activities:

Docker Concepts Refresher

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Ensure a strong foundation by refreshing Docker concepts.

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Review Docker documentation.
Complete a Docker tutorial.

Review Shell and Linux Commands

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Reinforces critical system administration skills and commands, providing foundational knowledge for understanding containerization technologies in the course.

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Review core Linux commands (e.g., ls, cd, mkdir)
Familiarize yourself with different shells (e.g., bash, zsh)
Practice basic file and directory operations
Explore advanced commands (e.g., grep, sed, awk)

Review introduction to docker

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Helps build a strong foundation in Docker concepts and understanding.

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Review Docker official documentation.
Practice creating dockerfiles and building docker images.
Review docker run command and different options.

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Review Docker Networking

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Review the concepts of Docker networking to strengthen foundational knowledge and prepare for upcoming lessons on Kubernetes orchestration.

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Define Docker networks and explain how they differ from host networks.
Describe the different types of Docker networks (bridge, overlay, host, none).
Explain how to create and manage Docker networks using the Docker CLI.

Docker Hands-On Lab

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Solidify understanding by following along with hands-on labs.

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Set up your development environment.
Build a Docker image.
Run a container from your image.
Inspect your container.
Deploy your container to the cloud.

Follow Docker Tutorials and Build Sample Images

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Provides practical hands-on experience with Docker, enabling students to build custom container images and deepen their understanding of container technology.

Browse courses on Docker

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Choose a tutorial from the Docker documentation
Follow the tutorial step-by-step
Build and run the sample container
Explore the Dockerfile and understand the instructions
Modify the Dockerfile to customize the container

Kubernetes Command Line Drills

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Practice using the Kubernetes command-line interface (kubectl) to manipulate objects, manage workloads in a Kubernetes cluster, and apply basic commands.

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Create a Kubernetes pod using kubectl.
Create a Kubernetes deployment using kubectl.
Create a ReplicaSet and observe Kubernetes load balancing in action.

Kubernetes Tutorial

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Supplement course content with external tutorials.

Browse courses on Kubernetes

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Find a reputable Kubernetes tutorial.
Work through the tutorial.
Experiment with the concepts you've learned.

Kubernetes Discussion Group

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Engage with peers to reinforce learning and explore new perspectives.

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Join a Kubernetes discussion group.
Participate in discussions.
Share your knowledge and experiences.

Practice debugging Kubernetes

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Improves understanding of Kubernetes cluster and provides hands-on practice for debugging.

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Create a Kubernetes cluster.
Deploy an application and intentionally introduce debugging.
Use Kubernetes tools to debug the application.
Analyze logs and metrics to identify problems.

Containerization Resource Collection

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Facilitate ongoing learning by compiling valuable resources.

Browse courses on Containerization

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Gather resources on containerization.
Organize resources into a central location.
Share resources with others.

Kubernetes Command Line Exercises

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Enhances proficiency with Kubernetes commands, ensuring familiarity with essential tasks and operations in managing containerized applications.

Browse courses on Kubernetes

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Set up a Kubernetes cluster (e.g., Minikube, Docker Desktop)
Create and manage pods using kubectl commands
Deploy and scale applications using deployments and ReplicaSets
Explore advanced kubectl commands (e.g., logs, port-forwarding)

Follow Istio tutorials

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Expands knowledge of Istio service mesh and its capabilities.

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Visit Istio official documentation.
Follow Istio tutorials to create a service mesh.
Experiment with Istio features like traffic routing and security.

Containerized Application

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Demonstrate mastery by building and deploying a containerized application.

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Design your application.
Code your application.
Containerize your application.
Deploy your application to the cloud.
Test your application.

Build a Web Application with Docker and Kubernetes

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Provides a comprehensive capstone project that integrates skills learned throughout the course to create and deploy a real-world application using Docker and Kubernetes.

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Choose a web framework and language (e.g., Django, Node.js)
Create a Dockerfile for the web application
Deploy the application to a Kubernetes cluster
Configure load balancing and autoscaling (e.g., Ingress, Horizontal Pod Autoscaler)
Monitor and troubleshoot the application

Create a blog post on Containerization

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Solidifies understanding of containerization concepts and enhances communication skills.

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Identify a topic.
Research and gather information.
Structure the blog post and write the content.
Proofread and edit the post.

Contribute to OpenShift project

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Provides real-world experience in OpenShift development and collaboration.

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Find an issue.
Fork the repository and clone it.
Work on the issue and create a pull request.
Collaborate with OpenShift maintainers.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Containers w/ Docker, Kubernetes & OpenShift will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Software Engineer

Software Engineers lead and support efforts to design, develop, test, and implement software for web-based applications, mobile phones, computer systems, and more. With this course, you will learn how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. Completing this course will give you the skills you need to succeed as a Software Engineer in today's competitive job market.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Backend Developer

Backend Developers work on the server-side of applications, ensuring that the application interacts with databases, servers, and other applications correctly. By taking this course, you will learn how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. These are essential skills for any Backend Developer who wants to succeed in today's competitive job market.

See salaries and explore the career path for Backend Developer

Full-Stack Developer

Full-Stack Developers are responsible for both the front-end and back-end of web applications. With this course, you will gain the skills you need to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. Completing this course will give you the competitive edge you need to succeed as a Full-Stack Developer.

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

Cloud Architect

Cloud Architects design, build, and manage cloud computing systems. By taking this course, you will learn how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. These skills are essential for any Cloud Architect who wants to succeed in today's competitive job market.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Architect

Cloud Systems Engineer

Cloud Systems Engineers are responsible for the day-to-day management of cloud computing systems. By taking this course, you will learn how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. This course will give you the skills you need to succeed in a role as a Cloud Systems Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Systems Engineer

DevOps Practitioner

DevOps Practitioners help bridge the gap between development and operations teams. By taking this course, you will learn how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. Completing this course will give you the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a DevOps Practitioner.

See salaries and explore the career path for DevOps Practitioner

Site Reliability Engineer (SRE)

Site Reliability Engineers (SREs) are responsible for the reliability of cloud computing systems. By taking this course, you will learn how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. This course will give you the skills you need to succeed in a role as a Site Reliability Engineer (SRE).

See salaries and explore the career path for Site Reliability Engineer (SRE)

Cloud Networking Specialist

Cloud Networking Specialists design, build, and manage cloud networking systems. By taking this course, you will learn how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. This course will give you the skills you need to succeed in a role as a Cloud Networking Specialist.

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Containerization Specialist

Containerization Specialists are responsible for the implementation and management of containerization technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. With this course, you will learn how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. Completing this course will give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Containerization Specialist.

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Kubernetes Administrator

Kubernetes Administrators are responsible for the deployment, management, and maintenance of Kubernetes clusters. This course will teach you how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. Completing this course will give you the skills you need to be successful as a Kubernetes Administrator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Kubernetes Administrator

IT Architect

IT Architects design, build, and manage IT systems. By taking this course, you will learn how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. This course will help you build a foundation for success in a role as an IT Architect.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Architect

Systems Administrator

Systems Administrators are responsible for the day-to-day management of computer systems. By taking this course, you will learn how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. This course may also help you to build a foundation for success in a role as a Systems Administrator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

DevOps Engineer

DevOps Engineers work to bridge the gap between development and operations teams. By taking this course, you will learn how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will also learn how to deploy and scale your applications in any public, private, or hybrid cloud. This course may also help you to build a foundation for success in a role as a DevOps Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for DevOps Engineer

Cloud Developer

Cloud Developers are responsible for developing and maintaining cloud-based applications. By taking this course, you will learn how to build a cloud native application using current containerization tools and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. This course may also help you to build a foundation for success in a role as a Cloud Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Developer

Network Engineer

Network Engineers design, build, and manage computer networks. This course may help you to build a foundation for success in a role as a Network Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer