Share via

Introduction to datacenters

Have your students ever asked, “What is the cloud?” or “Where does our data actually go when it’s stored in the cloud?” Maybe you had conversations about datacenters and want to explore the topic further? At Microsoft Datacenter Academy, we developed a 6-module course titled "Introduction to Datacenters" to help you and your students understand where the cloud truly lives. This course offers foundational knowledge about datacenters including what they are, why they exist, and how they power the digital world.

You explore the history and evolution of datacenters, their key components, networking architecture, sustainability practices, community impact, and the wide range of career opportunities in the datacenter industry. The course is vendor-agnostic and includes real-world examples from multiple providers, including Microsoft.

More than just a learning resource, this course is designed to spark curiosity and inspire students to consider further education and careers in this essential and fast-growing field.

  • Audience: This course is designed for students enrolled in vocational and technical education programs, typically aged 16 to 22, though in some regions students may be older, including adult learners pursuing vocational qualifications. These learners are often studying Information and Communication Technology (ICT) or related disciplines and may be exploring foundational concepts in computing, networking, or digital infrastructure. The course is accessible to students with varying levels of prior knowledge, making it suitable both for those new to the topic and those looking to deepen their understanding of datacenter operations and the cloud ecosystem.

  • Length: The time required to deliver the "Introduction to Datacenters" course may vary depending on the learners’ prior knowledge, technical familiarity, and overall maturity. Students who are new to ICT concepts or just beginning their vocational education journey may benefit from a slower pace and additional support, while those nearing graduation may progress more quickly.

As a general guideline, we estimate that the course can be delivered over approximately 16 lessons of 45 minutes each, totaling around 12 hours of instructional time.

Learning objectives

  • Develop foundational knowledge of datacenters and their role in the digital world
    • Learners will understand what datacenters are, why they exist, and how they support modern digital infrastructure, including cloud computing, online services, and data storage.
  • Explore the key components, operations, and sustainability practices of datacenters
    • Students will gain insights into datacenter design, hardware, networking, monitoring, and maintenance, as well as the environmental and community impact of datacenter operations.
  • Discover career pathways and societal contributions of the datacenter industry
    • The course introduces learners to the wide range of roles within the datacenter ecosystem and highlights how datacenters contribute to local economies, education, and sustainability goals.

Modules description

This course is divided into the following six modules.

Module 1: Introduction to Datacenters

In this module, learners will dive into the basics of datacenters—what they are, why they exist, and their critical role in modern IT infrastructure. We’ll explore the evolution of datacenters from mainframes to the cloud and look at different types, such as enterprise, colocation, cloud, and edge datacenters. Learners will also discover the core components that make up a datacenter, including power supply, cooling, security. By the end, learners will have a clear understanding of the purpose and structure of datacenters.

Module 2: Datacenter Design and Architecture

In this module, we'll explore the key factors of datacenter design, delving into why they're crucial for building a reliable, scalable, and efficient infrastructure. Learners will look at site selection considerations such as power availability, climate, and risks from natural disasters. We’ll also look at the layout of a datacenter, covering important elements like topologies, IT infrastructure, and space allocation. By the end of this module, learners will understand the importance of a well-planned datacenter.

Module 3: Datacenter Hardware and IT Infrastructure

In this module, we’ll dive into the essential hardware and IT infrastructure that power datacenters. Learners will look at the different types of servers and their components, as well as various storage options like SAN, NAS, and object storage. We’ll explore the network infrastructure inside a datacenter, including key components like switches, routers, and firewalls, along with how external connectivity is managed. Additionally, learners will discover the important IT apparatus such as racks and enclosures and application delivery controllers that help optimize performance and organization within the datacenter. By the end, learners will have a solid understanding of the hardware that supports the data storage, processing, and networking needs of a modern datacenter.

Module 4: Datacenter Operations

In this module, we’ll explore the essential operations that ensure the efficiency, reliability, and security of datacenters. Topics include the importance of monitoring key systems like environmental conditions, performance, and security, using tools like the DCIM (Datacenter Infrastructure Management). Learners will learn how KPIs such as uptime and energy efficiency are tracked to optimize performance. We’ll also cover maintenance practices for hardware, software, cooling systems, and power systems to prevent downtime. The end of the module will touch on regulations, reliability strategies, and disaster recovery.

Module 5: Sustainability in Datacenters

In this module, we focus on the importance of sustainability in datacenter operations. Topics include the use of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, and strategies for optimizing energy usage, and emergency power systems. We’ll also explore advanced cooling techniques, including waste heat reuse, and water conservation practices. Additionally, learners will discover how KPIs help track sustainability progress and look at the real-world examples showcasing successful innovations in green datacenter design and operations.

Module 6: Community Impact in Datacenters

In this module, learners will explore the vital role datacenters 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. Learners will discover how these digital infrastructure sites contribute to job creation, enhance local services, and foster economic growth. Additionally, this module examines how datacenters collaborate with local organizations through education, workforce training, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. By the end of this module, learners will have a deeper understanding of the transformative impact datacenters have on the regions they serve.

Instructor downloads

To support effective delivery of the Introduction to Datacenters course, educators are provided with a comprehensive set of instructional materials, designed for flexibility and ease of use in the classroom. The package includes: