Networking and Security Architecture with VMware NSX

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/networking-security-architecture-vmware-nsx

Introduction

# Review and Recommendation: Networking and Security Architecture with VMware NSX on Coursera In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, professionals in IT must stay abreast of new concepts and tools that reshape the way networks are managed and secured. One such tool is VMware NSX, a pivotal solution in network virtualization that is transforming traditional networking paradigms. If you're looking to deepen your understanding of this revolutionary technology, the course titled **"Networking and Security Architecture with VMware NSX"** on Coursera is an exemplary choice for both novices and seasoned professionals alike. ## Course Overview Spanning **8 weeks**, this online course provides a comprehensive foundation on **network virtualization** and delves into the intricacies of **VMware NSX**. The curriculum is thoughtfully structured to introduce students to the fundamental principles of network virtualization, while also emphasizing the business relevance and unique capabilities of NSX compared to conventional networking approaches. ### Target Audience This course is designed for IT professionals who possess a basic familiarity with concepts such as **routing**, **switching**, **firewalling**, **disaster recovery**, **business continuity**, **cloud computing**, and **security**. This prerequisite knowledge will enhance your understanding and provide you with the context to grasp the advanced topics discussed throughout the course. ## Learning Outcomes By the end of this course, participants will be empowered with the ability to: - Grasp the basics of network virtualization. - Articulate the business value and practical use cases for NSX. - Differentiate NSX from traditional networking systems. - Summarize the fundamental networking principles, supporting both professional discussions and practical applications. ## Course Syllabus Breakdown The syllabus is a well-designed roadmap to navigate through the complexities of VMware NSX, divided into specialized modules: ### 1. Introduction & Networking and Security Architecture with VMware NSX - It kicks off with a historical overview of VMware and an introduction to the course objectives. This module sets the stage for what learners can expect and provides necessary background. ### 2. NSX Architecture Components - Participants will explore the core components that constitute VMware NSX. Understanding these components is crucial for deploying NSX effectively in a data center. ### 3. Security Solutions with VMware NSX - This module contrasts traditional security measures with VMware NSX's in-kernel firewall, shedding light on how NSX enhances security through application behavior monitoring and a robust partner ecosystem. ### 4. Application Continuity Solutions - Split into two parts, this section focuses on creating high-availability data center designs and stretched clusters, as well as integrating disaster recovery solutions into your architecture. ### 5. Operations - Also in two parts, this module discusses the evolution of IT operations, focusing on process automation and the necessity for collaboration in a modern IT environment. ### Supplemental Materials - Additional resources and readings are provided to enhance comprehension and encourage further exploration of the topic at hand. ## Conclusion & Recommendation The **Networking and Security Architecture with VMware NSX** course is not just a learning experience; it’s an investment toward becoming proficient in a technology that is essential for modern IT infrastructure. The course is excellently structured, ensuring that complex subjects are broken down into understandable segments, making it accessible regardless of prior knowledge. I highly recommend this course for professionals looking to reinforce their foundational knowledge in IT networking and security. It is especially valuable for network administrators, security professionals, and IT managers aiming to lead their organizations toward a more secure and efficient use of network resources. Whether you're starting your journey with VMware NSX or looking to polish your existing skills, this course will equip you with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the future of network virtualization. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your professional capabilities!

Syllabus

Introduction & Networking and Security Architecture with VMware NSX

We'll introduce you to the course and VMware NSX, as well as provide a brief history of how VMware has evolved into the company that it is today.

This module explains the architectural components that make up VMware NSX. These components are the foundation for understanding how VMware NSX is deployed into a data center.

This module dives into VMware NSX as a security platform that provides a defensive in depth solution. The content compares traditional security solutions with the in-kernel firewall provided by VMware NSX. In addition, this module covers application behavior monitoring and the ecosystem of partners that integrate with VMware NSX to provide a comprehensive security solution.

This module provides details on using VMware NSX to create highly available data center designs.

The content covers stretched clusters and disaster recovery designs using VMware NSX. In addition, this module takes a look at how VMware Cloud on Amazon Web Services allows public cloud solutions to be managed the same way an on-prem data center is managed.

The Operations modules explain the evolution of people, process and tooling.

The content covers process automation with VMware NSX using common cloud management platforms like OpenStack and vRealize Automation. In addition the content describes the need for new tooling that provides converged and correlated data of new data center technologies. Finally, the module explains the importance a growth mindset and the evolution of IT organizations away from rigid, well-defined silos to a more collaborative, cross-functional workforce.