YAML Fundamentals for DevOps, Cloud and IaC Engineers

Overview

Class Central Tips

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to YAML, tailored specifically for DevOps, Cloud, and IaC engineers. It begins with a clear overview of YAML’s structure, syntax, and unique features. You’ll explore why YAML has become the preferred configuration language for automation and cloud environments and how it compares to other formats like JSON and XML. From basic scalars and collections to more complex concepts like anchors, tags, and mappings, this course provides the foundation needed for mastery. In addition to theory, this course delivers a series of practical, hands-on demos to solidify your YAML skills. You’ll work with Visual Studio Code’s YAML extension, explore YAML’s use with Python, and gain a thorough understanding of how to handle data types, quotes, spaces, and indentation. This hands-on approach ensures that learners will be equipped to handle real-world YAML challenges. Advanced concepts like multi-line strings, nested maps, and multiple documents within one file are also thoroughly explained through interactive demonstrations. The course concludes with real-world YAML examples, focusing on Kubernetes and Ansible configurations, two major players in DevOps and cloud automation. You’ll also gain experience writing YAML from scratch and formatting it using online tools. By the end of the course, you’ll have the skills necessary to confidently use YAML in various automation, cloud, and infrastructure projects. This course is ideal for DevOps professionals, Cloud Engineers, and Infrastructure as Code (IaC) practitioners. Prior knowledge of basic programming concepts and familiarity with DevOps or cloud environments is recommended but not required.

Syllabus

Introduction to the Course

In this module, we will introduce the course by offering a high-level overview of what to expect and sharing valuable recommendations to prepare you for a successful learning experience. You'll get a clear roadmap of the topics and practical tips to maximize your understanding of YAML in DevOps, Cloud, and Infrastructure as Code (IaC) environments.

YAML Fundamentals

In this module, we will dive deep into the foundational concepts of YAML. You’ll understand its importance, explore its structure, and compare it with other formats like XML and JSON. We’ll also cover essential topics such as datatypes, YAML visualization, and advanced features like tags, anchors, and complex mappings to ensure a strong grasp of YAML’s practical uses in DevOps and IaC environments.

YAML - Hands-On Demos

In this module, we will focus on practical, hands-on demonstrations to solidify your understanding of YAML. You’ll work with YAML extensions in Visual Studio Code, review Python code, and explore crucial elements such as datatypes, quotes, indentation, and multi-line strings. Additionally, we’ll guide you through advanced topics, including handling multiple YAML documents, using anchors, and tags, and managing complex mappings effectively.

Real-Work Examples

In this module, we will focus on applying YAML in real-world scenarios. You’ll learn how to write YAML documents from the ground up and see practical examples with Kubernetes and Ansible. Additionally, we’ll demonstrate how to use online tools to format YAML efficiently, helping you ensure clarity and consistency in your YAML files for professional use.