Google Cloud Lab - Lecture Notes

Introduction to Virtualization and Cloud Computing

• Instructor: Professor Chong Oh, Information Systems
• Key Concept: Virtualization
  • Definition: Process where one physical computer hosts multiple virtual computers.
  • Example: A single physical machine can host multiple virtual machines (VMs) with their operating systems.
  • Relevance: Core concept of cloud computing—renting parts of a physical server for various VMs.
• Cloud Computing
  • Built on virtualization.
  • Focus of the current week's lab.

Lab Objectives

1. Understand cloud infrastructure setup.
2. Gain command line proficiency for provisioning VMs.
3. Learn to deploy and manage applications.
4. Explore networking and connectivity for web servers and VMs.

Starting the Lab

• Use an incognito browser (Ctrl Shift N or Command Shift N on Mac).
• Access: cloudscalesboost.google
• Join the Innovatives Program for 35 free credits.
• Navigate to the Create Virtual Machine Lab.
• Check available credits and start the lab within a 40-minute window.

Lab Setup

• Instructions:
  • Use provided username and password.
  • Activate the Google Cloud Shell.
  • Authorize Cloud Shell commands.
  • Set regions and zones using command line to minimize latency.

Lab Tasks

Task 1: Create a Virtual Machine (VM)

• Use Google Cloud Console.
• Steps:
  • Navigate to Compute Engine and VM instances.
  • Create a new instance with specified configurations (e.g., US-East 4 zone, E2 series).
  • Update OS to Linux Debian version.
  • Allow HTTP traffic for web server.
  • Authorize SSH for secure connection.

Task 2: Install NGINX Web Server

• Update OS and run NGINX installation commands via SSH terminal.
• Verify installation through external IP and web server welcome page.

Task 3: Create VM Using GCloud

• Utilize command line for VM creation.
• Replace variables in command as needed (e.g., $zone with actual value).
• Check progress and verify successful creation.

Task 4: Test Knowledge

• Answer final questions to complete the lab.
• Deliverables:
  • Screenshots: Cloud console project ID, VM dashboard with two VMs, NGINX welcome page.
  • Summary paragraph on lab understanding.

Conclusion & Key Takeaways

• Skills Developed: Creating/managing VMs, deploying web servers, using cloud technologies.
• Benefits of Cloud Computing:
  • Rapid application setup without physical servers.
  • Cost-efficient server rental.
  • Resource scalability and reliability.
• Industry Relevance: Valuable skills for businesses to leverage cloud technology for competitive advantage.

• Next Steps: Continue exploring cloud management and infrastructure in upcoming classes.