Introduction to Datacenter

  • Learning Path
  • 6 Modules

At a glance

Microsoft Datacenter Academy presents: Introduction to Datacenters learning path.

This learning path is designed to provide learners foundational knowledge on datacenter essentials, fostering industry awareness and career readiness beyond traditional technician roles. It equips learners with essential knowledge to explore pathways in the growing datacenter industry.

Learners will gain insights into:

  • Datacenter fundamentals: Understanding the purpose, evolution, and key components that support modern IT infrastructure.
  • Datacenter design and architecture: Exploring site selection, facility layout, power and cooling systems, and network infrastructure.
  • Core hardware and IT infrastructure: Learning about servers, storage solutions, networking equipment, and essential IT apparatus.
  • Datacenter operations: Covering system monitoring, maintenance, automation, reliability strategies, and disaster recovery.
  • Sustainability in datacenters: Examining energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, innovative cooling techniques, and sustainability metrics.
  • Community and societal impact: Understanding job creation, local partnerships, corporate social responsibility, digital equity, and emergency response roles.

By the end of the course, learners will have a solid understanding of datacenter infrastructure and operations, equipping them with the knowledge to pursue industry certifications and career opportunities in this rapidly evolving field.

About this course

  • This vendor-agnostic course uses real-world examples and industry case studies to help students build business acumen and connect more personally with the datacenter industry.
  • This general course offers broad industry insights, with technical concepts introduced in modules 3 and 4, focusing more on overall understanding than deep technical training.
  • The course content was developed, reviewed, and refined by our datacenter operations employees to ensure it is relevant and up to date.
    • Supported by Microsoft Datacenter Academy.
    • Special thanks to Wesley Vermandel, Richard Ryan, Truce Major Jack, Shao Low, Barry Godschalk, Suzanna Yekkel, Nick Schoorl, Jonathan Clarke, Romita Hoff, Sarah Wilkinson, Gary McLoughlin and Elena Simonova for their invaluable contributions and expertise in making this course possible!

Prerequisites

Basic familiarity with computers.

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Modules in this learning path

Understand the purpose and evolution of datacenters

This module covers the basics of datacenters—what they are, why they exist, and their critical role in modern IT infrastructure.

Learn about datacenter design, architecture, and infrastructure management

This module covers the key factors of datacenter design, delving into why they're crucial for building a reliable, scalable, and efficient infrastructure.

Identify key hardware and IT infrastructure components of datacenters

In this module, we explored the essential hardware and IT infrastructure that power datacenters. We learned about different types of servers and storage systems, including SAN, NAS, and object storage.

Describe the best practices for datacenter operations

This module covers the essential operations that ensure the efficiency, reliability, and security of datacenters. Monitoring, Learn who is responsible for datacenter monitoring. KPIs - Understand how Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) track datacenter health. Maintenance - Explore the importance of regular maintenance in hardware, software, power systems, cooling systems, and fire protection systems. Disaster recovery and low latency - Discover how datacenters recover after unexpected disruptions and how to minimize delays in data transmission. By the end of this module, you will have a solid understanding of maintenance and monitoring best practices.

Describe the sustainability practices in datacenters

This module focuses on the importance of sustainability in datacenter operations and covers the use of renewable energy sources, strategies for optimizing energy usage, and emergency power systems. Renewable energy and efficiency - Learn the primary considerations when adopting sustainable practices. Cooling and resource conservation - Review several cooling solutions, as well as water conservation and recycling practices. Monitoring and reporting - Explore how datacenters monitor, track, and report sustainability practices. Emerging technologies - Discover several emerging technologies in optimizing datacenter sustainability. By the end of this module, you'll have a solid understanding of sustainability practices in datacenters.

Learn about contributing to local economies through datacenters

This module explores the vital role datacenters (DCs) play in shaping local economies and communities. More than just hubs of technology, datacenters serve as engines of opportunity, driving investment, innovation, and long-term prosperity. Economic impact - Learn how datacenters contribute to job creation, enhance local services, and foster economic growth. Community engagement - Examine how datacenters work with local communities to support philanthropic and education efforts. Long-term benefits - Understand the lasting effects of datacenters on regional development and infrastructure. By the end of this module, you'll have a deeper understanding of the transformative impact datacenters have on the regions they serve.