Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/azure-infrastructure

In today’s tech-driven world, understanding cloud computing is no longer a niche skill but a fundamental requirement for many IT professionals. Microsoft Azure, a powerhouse in the cloud arena, offers a vast array of services for building and managing applications. If you’re looking to get a solid grasp of Azure’s infrastructure, particularly Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Coursera’s ‘Azure Infrastructure Fundamentals’ course is an excellent starting point.

This course, designed to introduce the core concepts of Azure, does a commendable job of breaking down complex topics into digestible modules. It begins with the absolute basics, guiding you through setting up your own Azure subscription – a crucial first step for hands-on learning. The instructor’s approach is clear and methodical, ensuring that even those new to cloud computing can follow along.

Module 1, ‘Managing Azure Subscriptions,’ lays the groundwork by explaining subscriptions, resource groups, and the essential security layer of permissions. The introduction to Azure Monitor, including alerts and Log Analytics, provides early exposure to vital diagnostic and analytical tools, equipping learners with the ability to make informed decisions about their Azure environment.

Building on this, Module 2, ‘Managing Resource Groups,’ dives deeper into security with a comprehensive look at Role-Based Access Control (RBAC). Understanding how to manage access, create custom roles, and leverage Azure Policy for governance are critical skills that this module effectively covers.

The course then transitions to identity management in Module 3, ‘Azure AD Identity Management.’ It clearly contrasts Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) with traditional on-premises Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) and explores the creation of hybrid environments. The emphasis on securing these identities with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and understanding different Azure AD editions is particularly valuable.

Storage and networking, the backbone of any cloud infrastructure, are thoroughly explored in Modules 4 and 5 respectively. ‘Storage’ covers essential concepts like storage accounts and replication, while ‘Virtual Networks’ delves into VNET configurations and connectivity options. These modules provide the necessary knowledge to design efficient and scalable storage and network solutions.

Finally, Module 6, ‘Virtual Machines,’ brings it all together by focusing on one of Azure’s most fundamental IaaS offerings. The course explains how to manage Windows and Linux VMs, ensuring high availability, resilience, backups, and disaster recovery – all key aspects of robust cloud infrastructure management.

The course culminates in a final exam designed to test your understanding of the material covered. It’s a fair assessment that reinforces the learning objectives.

**Recommendation:**

‘Azure Infrastructure Fundamentals’ is highly recommended for anyone looking to build a foundational understanding of Microsoft Azure. Whether you’re a student, a developer, a system administrator, or a project manager, this course provides the essential knowledge to navigate and utilize Azure’s core infrastructure services. The practical approach, combined with clear explanations of security, storage, networking, and virtual machines, makes it an invaluable resource for kickstarting your cloud journey.

Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/azure-infrastructure