CSCA 5083: Network Principles in Practice: Cloud Networking

Get a head start on program admission

ÌýÌýPreview this courseÌýin the non-credit experience today!Ìý
Start working toward program admission and requirements right away.ÌýWork you complete in the non-credit experience will transfer to the for-credit experience when you upgrade and pay tuition. See How It Works for details.

  • Course Type: Breadth
  • Specialization: Network Systems: Principles and Practice (Linux and Cloud Networking)
  • Instructor:ÌýDr. Eric Keller, Associate Professor, Electrical, Computer & Energy Engineering
  • Prior knowledge needed:
    • Programming languages: Basic to intermediate experience with Python
    • Math: Basic math experience - through college algebra
    • Techinal requirements: Windows or Mac, Linux, VS Code, Terraform

Learning Outcomes

  • Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
  • Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
  • Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
  • Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
  • Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
  • Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.Ìý

Course Grading Policy

AssignmentPercentage of Grade
Starting Terraform with GCP15%
Cloud Background Quiz8%
Multiple VPCs with Terraform15%
VPC Quiz8%
WAN Module Lab15%
WAN Quiz8%
Network Services Quiz8%
Hybrid Quiz8%
Final Exam15%

Course Content

Duration: 5Ìýhours

This module 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. Ìý

Duration: 5 hours

In this module, you will deepen your understanding of cloud networking by exploring Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs) and learning about advanced networking concepts like Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and specialized cloud networking platforms. The module begins with an introduction to VPCs. Then, you will explore SDN principles and the specifics of Google's Andromeda and Azure's AccelNet.Ìý

Duration: 6Ìýhours

This module delves deeper into cloud networking, focusing on advanced configurations of Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs) and the integration of Wide Area Networks (WANs). You will learn to create and manage complex VPC setups, establish WAN connectivity, and explore specific cloud networking solutions from industry leaders like Microsoft and Google. The lessons will cover both theoretical concepts and practical applications, culminating in a hands-on lab where students will deploy multiple VPCs using Terraform and establish WAN connectivity

Duration: 4 hours 35 mins

This module, you will explore essential network services in cloud environments, with a particular focus on load balancing, autoscaling, and content distribution networks (CDNs). Throughout the module, you will be introduced to different types of load balancers, their configurations, and practical applications. Additionally, you will learn about Google's Maglev and Akamai's CDN, delving into their underlying technologies and how they optimize network performance.Ìý

Duration: 1 hour

In the final module of the course, you will focus on hybrid and inter-cloud networking, essential for integrating cloud services with on-premises infrastructure and other cloud platforms. Throughout the module, you will explore various technologies and methods for creating secure, efficient, and scalable hybrid networks, including Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), Direct Connect options, and inter-cloud connectivity solutions.Ìý

Duration: 1Ìýhour 30 minutes

Final Exam Format: Timed, in-course exam, not proctored, much like the quizzes in the course

This module contains materials for the final exam.

This exam is similar to the quizzes throughout the course:

  • The exam is not proctored.
  • It is a 90-minute exam.
  • You will have two attempts.
  • The exam contains multiple choice questions.There are no programming questions in the exam.
  • You are not allowed to use any notes or access other websites when you take your exam.

Notes

  • Cross-listed Courses: CoursesÌýthat are offered under two or more programs. Considered equivalent when evaluating progress toward degree requirements. You may not earn credit for more than one version of a cross-listed course.
  • Page Updates: This page is periodically updated. Course information on the Coursera platform supersedes the information on this page. Click theÌýView on CourseraÌýbuttonÌýabove for the most up-to-date information.