Cloud computing is transforming the IT landscape, offering unparalleled opportunities for innovation and scalability as well as new challenges in ensuring robust security and reliable infrastructure. As organizations migrate to cloud environments, the demand for skilled cloud security professionals continues to grow. Developed by faculty from the Cheriton School of Computer Science at the University of Waterloo and a senior cybersecurity specialist working in the industry, this course equips you with the foundational knowledge of modern cloud infrastructure along with practical hands-on activities in a simulated environment.
Designed for early to mid-career professionals in the software industry interested in upskilling in cloud cybersecurity, this eight-week course, will provide you with the technical skills and competencies needed for designing and deploying cloud infrastructure in today’s market while increasing your awareness and resiliency in digital security.
You’ll gain foundational knowledge of cloud infrastructure and hands-on experience in cloud security through weekly labs and real-world scenarios. The curriculum covers key topics including virtualization, networking, and application management, before diving into cloud-specific cybersecurity tools and techniques.
Through practical labs, you will explore how to deploy and secure cloud environments, from using cryptographic keys and firewalls to managing identity and access control. By the end of the course, you will have the technical knowledge and practical experience needed to confidently design and secure cloud systems, positioning yourself as a valuable asset in the rapidly evolving IT industry.
- Explain the key concepts of cloud computing, infrastructure and its use cases.
- Discuss the design and management of cloud solutions including storage, networks and applications.
- Deploy a range of cloud instances and services, including web services, cloud storage instances, and networks.
- Identify common threats to cloud environments and strategies to increase security.
- Secure cloud data, networks, and applications using a variety of tools and techniques.
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Module Title |
Main Topics / Learning Outcomes |
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Module 1: Introduction to Cloud Infrastructure |
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Module 2: Virtualization |
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Module 3: Cloud Storage |
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Module 4: Networking |
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Module 5: Application Management in Cloud |
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Module 6: Cybersecurity |
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Module 7: Data and Network Security |
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Module 8: Cloud Application Security |
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This course is ideal for early and mid-career IT professionals and Engineers:
- Aspiring Cloud and Security Specialists: Individuals looking to understand cloud technologies and security to take the first step in advancing to roles in cloud security
- Current cloud and Security Specialists: Individuals seeking a refresher in the basics of designing secure, cost-effective cloud architectures for their projects or clients with hands-on practice and expert feedback.
- Software Developers and Data Engineers: Those looking to leverage cloud platforms for scalable application development or data storage solutions.
- Mid-Level Managers and Decision Makers: professionals responsible for overseeing IT infrastructure and ensuring secure cloud implementations.
Prerequisites
- There is no specific prerequisite education or work experience needed.
- A working literacy of computing devices, operating systems, and the internet will help in this course
Learn alongside your team!
WatSPEED provides custom learning experiences tailored for large groups from any single organization. Register three or more employees from the same organization and receive 15 per cent off. Contact our team at watspeed@uwaterloo.ca for details.
- Practical lab-based learning: Apply concepts in a virtual lab environment with guided tasks simulating real-world scenarios.
- Comprehensive curriculum: Cover the design and deployment of cloud infrastructure, followed by essential cloud security tools and techniques.
- Expert support: Access a live orientation session, weekly drop-in Q&A sessions, and active instructor participation in discussion forums.
- Flexible learning experience: Progress through content at your own pace while supported by live sessions.
- No prerequisites: Start your cloud security journey without needing prior experience or specialized knowledge. A working literacy of computing devices, operating systems, and the internet will help in this course
System requirements
- Learners will use an online platform to complete the hands-on labs.
- No software installation is required for this course.
Receive a certificate from the University of Waterloo
Upon successful completion of this program, you will receive a professional education certificate from the University of Waterloo.
Samer Al-Kiswany
Associate Professor, David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science, University of Waterloo | Course Author
Samer Al-Kiswany is an Associate Professor at the David Cheriton School of Computer Science at the University of Waterloo, Canada. His research interests are in cloud, distributed systems, networking, and data management and processing engines. In particular, his work focuses on reconsidering systems design in light of recent changes in cloud applications and platforms. Samer received his PhD from the University of British Columbia in 2013 under the supervision of Matei Ripeanu. After earning his PhD, he joined the University of Wisconsin–Madison as a postdoctoral fellow working with Remzi and Andrea Arpaci-Dusseau.
Samer has diverse industry experience, he was the Research Lead for Next Generation Networking at Acronis Research Labs, research intern at Microsoft Azure, IBM Almaden Research Center, NEC, and Argonne National Lab. Samer is the recipient of ten national and international awards, including the Killam Doctoral Fellowship and the NSERC Postdoctoral Fellowship.
Vikas Lohia
Senior Cyber Security Specialist | Course Contributor
Vikas Lohia is a distinguished Cybersecurity Professional with a diverse background spanning multiple industries and countries, including Canada, the UAE, and India.
He has held pivotal roles in Network Operations, Threat Intelligence, Cloud Security, 24x7 Cybersecurity Operations, and Incident Response. His extensive experience spanning across industries such as finance, technology consulting, network and security vendors, e-commerce fashion, and managed security services has positioned him as a versatile leader in the cybersecurity domain.
Lohia has also made a significant impact as an educator, playing a key role in shaping the careers of aspiring cybersecurity professionals. As an instructor at leading private bootcamps, he was a part of an intensive 12-week program, providing practical, hands-on training that propelled many students to advance their careers in the cybersecurity industry.
Academically, Lohia holds three post-graduate qualifications in Cybersecurity along with an undergraduate degree in Information Technology. His blend of technical expertise and leadership experience equips him to offer students an in-depth, real-world understanding of network security and the evolving challenges in today’s digital landscape.
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