System Requirements
Your computer needs to handle multiple development environments simultaneously. Don't worry if you're not quite there yet – we'll help you get set up properly.
Operating Systems
We support all major platforms, though some tools work better on certain systems. Here's what works best:
- Windows 10/11 (Professional recommended)
- macOS 10.15 or newer
- Ubuntu 20.04+ or similar Linux distribution
- WSL2 enabled for Windows users
Internet Connection
Stable broadband required for downloading tools, accessing cloud platforms, and participating in live sessions.
Essential Software Setup
Before the program starts in September 2025, you'll need these tools installed. We provide detailed setup guides and troubleshooting support to make sure everything works smoothly.
- Git version control system
- Docker Desktop for containerization
- Visual Studio Code or preferred code editor
- Terminal emulator (built-in or third-party)
- VirtualBox or VMware for virtual machines
- Chrome or Firefox for web-based tools
Pre-Program Setup Support
Don't stress about getting everything perfect before day one. Our technical team offers setup sessions during August 2025 to help you configure your development environment properly.
Maya volunteers for these sessions because she remembers struggling with her first Docker installation. "Getting the tools working shouldn't be the hard part," she says. "The learning should be."
Schedule Setup Help
Hardware Compatibility Check
Not sure if your current setup will work? Elena runs compatibility checks every few weeks to help prospective students assess their hardware needs. She's seen people succeed with older machines and others struggle with brand-new laptops that had configuration issues.
Most problems come down to virtualization settings or insufficient RAM for running multiple containers. Both are fixable – virtualization through BIOS settings, RAM through upgrades that usually cost less than you'd expect.
Book Hardware AssessmentCloud Platform Access
You'll need accounts on major cloud platforms. Free tiers cover everything we do in class, but you should understand the billing structure.
- AWS account with billing alerts enabled
- Google Cloud Platform free tier
- Microsoft Azure student account (if available)
- GitHub account for version control
- Docker Hub account for container registries
Security & Access
DevOps work involves sensitive systems and data. We'll teach you security best practices, but your setup needs to support secure development from day one.
- Two-factor authentication capability
- VPN client for secure connections
- SSH key generation and management
- Firewall configuration access
- Local administrator privileges
Performance Expectations
Your system will run Docker containers, virtual machines, and development tools simultaneously. Performance matters for productivity.
Alternative Solutions
If your current hardware doesn't meet requirements, you have options. Cloud-based development environments work well for most exercises, though they require consistent internet and some monthly costs.
Some students use AWS WorkSpaces or Google Cloud Shell for the entire program. Others upgrade their RAM or switch to Linux for better performance. We'll help you figure out what makes sense for your situation and budget.
Attend Setup Workshop