Knowledge of virtualisation, containers, and virtual machines, as well as computer networking, packets, routing, switching, and hands-on configuration.

The module is split into two separate but overlapping concepts. First, the module focuses on cloud technologies. This includes definitions of cloud systems, taxonomy of cloud systems, virtualised infrastructure, cloud case studies, high availability systems, cloud filesystems, docker, SDN, cloud security. Technologies may include one or more of AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, or openStack.
In the second aspect of the module, the main focus moves to advanced networking concepts. This has a particular focus on scenario-based studies, constructing infrastructure architectures which are secure, reliable, scalable, and resistant to attack. Such networks will be analysed and critically evaluated. Diagnostics under error conditions will be examined, as well as how such systems can be managed under incident response conditions.
The two topics are also interlinked through how they can be configured to support and enhance the other, particularly when considering performance and security.

LO1: Critically compare virtualisation and cloud technologies, and reflect on different implementation methods.
LO2: Design and implement virtualised and cloud-based infrastructures at multiple implementation levels, and evaluate those implementations.
LO3: Design, implement, and reflect on complex networking infrastructures in terms including security, reliability, and attack conditions.
LO4: Analyse network events, including attacks, failures, and misconfigurations and reflect on possible solutions.