ECEA 5372 Network Principles in Practice: Cloud Networking

3rd course in the Network Systems: Principles and Practice (Linux and Cloud Networking) Specialization

Instructor: Eric Keller, Associate Professor

In Network Principles in Practice: Cloud Networking, you will learn about both the networking abstractions and services for building applications in the cloud, and the technology underlying cloud networking.ÌýÌýYou will be able to architect complex applications in the cloud.Ìý In understanding how the cloud providers created their networks, you will be in a better position to troubleshoot applications and analyze different possible ways of architecting applications, and even help design the next generation of networking for cloud providers.

Prior knowledge needed:Ìý

Learning Outcomes

  • Identify characteristics of cloud computing.
  • Identify basic elements of VL2 architecture.
  • Use Terraform to deploy and manage cloud infrastructure resources.
  • Identify key concepts and elements of Software-Defined Networking (SDN)..
  • Configure multiple VPCs and establish WAN connectivity using Terraform.
  • Compare different WAN solutions and their practical applications in cloud environments.
  • Define the difference between an Application Load Balancer and a Network Load Balancer.
  • Describe how Consistent Hashing works in the context of Google's Maglev
  • Summarize how Akamai directs traffic from clients to nearby servers.
  • Describe the configuration options and considerations for setting up VPNs between on-premises networks and cloud platforms.

Syllabus

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: 5Ìýhours

Welcome to Module 2! 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. Ìý

Duration: 5Ìýhours

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: 1.5Ìýhours

This module contains materials for the final exam. If you've upgraded to the for-credit version of this course, please make sure you review the additional for-credit materials in the Introductory module and anywhere else they may be found.

To learn about ProctorU's exam proctoring, system test links, and privacy policy, visitÌýwww.colorado.edu/ecee/online-masters/current-students/proctoru.

Grading

Assignment
Percentage 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%
Starting Terraform with GCP15%
Cloud Background Quiz8%
Multiple VPCs with Terraform15%
VPC Quiz8%
WAN Module Lab15%

Letter Grade Rubric

Letter GradeÌý
Minimum Percentage
A93%
A-90%
B+86%
B83%
B-80%
C+76%
C73%
C-70%
D+66%
D60%
F0%