Module 4: Virtual Servers

Technology Terminology
Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2): Providing secure, resizable
compute capacity in the cloud as act of renting a computer in cloud.

Amazon Simple Storage Service (Amazon S3): Stores data for user.

Domain Name System (DNS): a naming system to computers, devices and

resources connected to a network.

S3 bucket: containers of objects (such as images, videos, audio files,

documents and so on)

Policy: When associated with an identity or resources, its define permissions.

AWS evaluates these policies when making a request.

Domain name: a label to defines a network of computers under centralized

control.

Amazon Routes 53: a reliable and cost-effective way to route end users to
Internet applications.

Virtual private cloud: a virtual network isolated from other virtual networks in
AWS Cloud help protecting data and limit access to your network. All AWS
services can be launched from VPC.

JavaScript Object Notation (JSON): syntax for storing and exchange data.

Dynamic Website: support user interactions. Using Python, JavaScript, PHP, or

ASP with Hypertext Markup Language (HTML).

Static Website: a website known as “wall of text”; typically built using HTML
and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS).

Background And Misconception

Amazon EC2 provides cloud computing power for various tasks. Static websites
are stored in S3 buckets, while dynamic websites require EC2 instances. Policies
control access permissions, written in JSON. An index.html file serves as the

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 website code. Route 53 is used for optional domain registration. VPCs provide
private networks for enhanced security and access control.

This diagram shows a VPC in one Region in the AWS Cloud. The VPC contains two
subnets, and each subnet is in a different Availability Zone within the Region. Each
subnet contains an EC2 instance.

This diagram shows an EC2 instance within a VPC. The EC2 instance is connected
to a router that is located outside the VPC but within AWS. The router is also

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 connected to an internet gateway, which is located at the border of AWS and the
internet. This internet gateway is connected to other computers that are located
outside of the AWS environment.

Questions:
1. Purpose Duality: User vs. Creator
I frequently use YouTube.

User Perspective: The primary purpose for me is entertainment and learning.

It's a platform to watch videos, discover new content, and stay informed.

Creator Perspective: From YouTube's viewpoint, it's about generating ad

revenue and engagement. The platform collects user data to personalize ads
and recommend content, aiming to keep users on the site longer.

While both purposes are somewhat aligned (keeping users engaged benefits
both), the core motivation differs. Users seek content, while YouTube prioritizes
profit through advertising.
2. Domain Names: First Impressions Matter

Factors influencing a good domain name include:

Relevance: It should reflect the website's content or purpose.

Memorability: A short, easy-to-remember name is crucial.

Brandability: The name should be unique and stand out.

Availability: The desired domain should be obtainable.

The domain name impacts user experience significantly. A relevant, memorable

name builds trust and sets expectations. A confusing or generic name might lead
to a negative first impression and even deter users from exploring the website.
For my website, two crucial factors would be:

1. Relevance: It must clearly convey the website's theme or focus.

2. Memorability: I'd aim for a short, catchy name that's easy to recall.

3. Data Gathering: The Privacy Trade-Off

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 Personally, I find the trade-off of data collection for personalization somewhat
worthwhile, but with reservations. The convenience of tailored recommendations
and faster form-filling is appealing. However, I'm concerned about the extent of
data collection and how it's used.

I believe websites should be far more transparent about the types of data they
gather. Users should have the option to opt out of certain data collection practices
if they choose. Striking a balance between personalization and privacy is crucial.

Module 5: Content Delivery

Technology terminology
Amazon CloudFront is a fast content delivery network (CDN) that delivers
data, videos, apps, and APIs globally with low latency.

AWS Direct Connect establishes dedicated network connections from on-

premises environments to AWS for faster and more consistent network
experiences.

Caching stores frequently requested data in edge locations, which are

sites close to high-population areas for lower latency.

A CDN is a system of distributed servers that delivers web content based

on geographic locations.

Distribution instructs CloudFront on content retrieval and management.

Origin refers to the source of files, like S3 buckets or HTTP servers.

Background and misconceptions

CloudFront caches frequently requested web content in edge locations globally.
This speeds up content delivery, especially during high traffic spikes, by reducing
the load on the origin server. Even on popular sites like Amazon, caching is used
for frequently accessed elements like front-page products. Cached data has a
limited time to live (TTL).

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 Questions:

1. Slow Internet Experiences

Yes, I've experienced sluggish web pages, buffering videos, and slow downloads
numerous times. Most recently, I was trying to stream a high-resolution video on a
platform with a seemingly overloaded server. The constant buffering and
interruptions were frustrating.

Such experiences evoke feelings of impatience, annoyance, and sometimes even

helplessness. It disrupts my workflow or leisure time and makes me question the
reliability of the service or my internet connection.

These issues can arise from various factors:

Server Overload: When too many users access a server simultaneously, it can
struggle to handle the load, leading to slowdowns.

Network Congestion: Heavy internet traffic during peak hours can cause
delays, especially in densely populated areas or with shared connections.

Website Optimization: Poorly optimized websites with large files or inefficient

code can also contribute to slow loading times.

2. Net Neutrality and CDNs

Net neutrality is the principle that all internet traffic should be treated equally by
internet service providers (ISPs). This means ISPs shouldn't throttle, block, or
prioritize specific content or services based on commercial interests.

CDNs, including CloudFront, generally support net neutrality. They aim to improve
performance for all content, regardless of its source or type. By caching content
closer to users, CDNs reduce latency and improve access for everyone, fostering
a more open and equitable internet experience.

3. Internet Access and Government Control

I believe internet access should be considered a human right in today's digital
age. It's vital for education, communication, and access to information. Restricting
access can hinder individual growth and societal progress.

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 However, government restrictions on certain webpages or content can be justified
in limited circumstances, such as:

Illegal Activities: Content promoting or facilitating illegal actions, like child

exploitation or terrorism, should be restricted.

Hate Speech and Incitement: Content inciting violence or hatred based on

race, religion, or other protected characteristics may warrant restriction.

National Security: In exceptional cases, governments might need to limit

access to protect sensitive information or critical infrastructure.

Such restrictions should be implemented with transparency, accountability, and

respect for human rights. Overly broad restrictions can stifle free speech and limit
access to information.

4. Advantages and Disadvantages of Internet Access

for Students
Advantages:

Vast Educational Resources: Students can access a wealth of online learning

materials, tutorials, research papers, and educational platforms.

Collaboration and Communication: Internet enables easy communication and

collaboration with peers and teachers, fostering learning communities.

Global Perspective: Students can connect with people from different cultures
and backgrounds, expanding their worldview.

Skill Development: Internet offers opportunities to learn new skills like coding,
digital literacy, and online research.

Disadvantages:

Limited Learning Opportunities: Students without internet access may

struggle to keep up with their peers due to limited educational resources.

Social Isolation: Lack of online communication can lead to feelings of isolation

and exclusion from social networks.

Reduced Job Prospects: Many jobs require digital skills and internet access,
putting students without it at a disadvantage.

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 Potential Advantages of Limited Internet Access:

Improved Focus: Without constant distractions, students might focus better

on offline tasks and activities.

Increased Face-to-Face Interaction: Reduced screen time could encourage

more real-life social interaction and physical activities.

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