Degree Specialization in Virtualization and Cloud Computing

This course provides students with an introduction to the concept of virtualization. Virtualization is achieved through the use of both hardware and software in a manner that gives the perception that a physical environment exists when, in fact, it may not. Students will understand how operating systems in a computer utilize virtual memory to provide applications with the ability to run better and faster without adding more physical memory. Students will explore the concept of server virtualization, which similarly gives the appearance and benefit of having multiple processors running simultaneously. Students will evaluate the present status and future direction of virtualization. Actual virtualization software will be used to provide students with a real-world experience. This course aligns with the VMware Data Center Virtualization Fundamentals certification. Prerequisite: ITS315. Course not eligible for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credit.

Students in this course are introduced to the concepts of cloud technology, which has caused a paradigm shift in electronic storage and security. Students will understand the manner in which companies utilize their cloud-based servers and other storage devices to dynamically adjust the available storage based on demand. Students will also gain an understanding of the added security risks that companies are now faced with as a result of cloud technology. In this course, students will learn about implementations of cloud technology, including SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS. In addition, cloud-based data storage solutions will be covered. This course maps to and adheres to the CompTIA Cloud+ certification. Prerequisite: ITS439. Course not eligible for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credit.

This course emphasizes the business applications of cloud computing. Students will learn about cloud computing concepts, architecture, and service management. They will understand the advantages and disadvantages associated with a cloud computing platform for business applications, such as those related to financial feasibility, business benefits, and security risks. Students will learn to apply standards and best practices to evaluate alternative cloud solutions in determining which is most appropriate for a given business environment. This course also includes a teamwork component that is based on project management principles to design a cloud-based application. Prerequisite: ITS441

Students in this course will learn the skills to design, implement, manage, and maintain a virtualization infrastructure using current Microsoft Virtualization technologies. The course provides details on how to deploy and manage Hyper-V and Remote Desktop Services on Windows Servers. The course also provides details on how to manage a server virtualization environment by using System Center products such as System Center Virtual Machine Manager (VMM), System Center Operations Manager, System Center Data Protection Manager, and System Center Configuration Manager. In addition, students will explore the Windows Azure capabilities for virtual machines and managing a hybrid cloud, including Windows Azure’s Internet as a Service (IaaS) and storage capabilities. This course aligns with the Microsoft Monitoring and Operating a Private Cloud with System Center 2012 exam 70-246. Prerequisite: Experience with Windows Servers. Prerequisite: Experience with Windows Servers; ITS442

Students in this course are introduced to the concepts of virtualization security including the types of virtualization, the importance of securing virtualized networks and discussions of the various virtualization program offerings. Additionally, students in this course are introduced to the concepts of cloud security. Students will understand the strategy for securely implementing network policies and integrating virtual networks into the existing physical infrastructure. Students will also gain an understanding of how to analyze and implement security for public and private clouds. In this course, students will learn about implementations of effective practices for securing virtual machines without creating additional operational overhead for administrators. In addition, students will learn how to protect networks, operating systems and applications in various cloud deployments. Prerequisite: ITS443