Digital infrastructures–especially the data centers and subsea cables that underpin the global internet–are vital systems that need to be kept alive and running in order to support users around the world. Even once a digital infrastructure system is built, a complex web of operations kicks into gear to keep it smoothly functioning. This course is a deep dive into the world of digital infrastructure operations and maintenance. It covers everything from upgrades, to navigating supply chains for parts and fuel, to the role of monitoring and management. It extends to the world of lifecycle management and recycling, tracking what happens to the internet’s older infrastructures as new ones emerge. Core question of this course includes: who operates and maintains the hidden backbone of the global internet? What kind of jobs are available in this sector? How does this active industry maintain continuity in a world with increasing disruptions?
This multi-disciplinary course will be rigorous, but requires no previous training in digital infrastructure or technology. As is true across the Berkeley Center for New Media’s digital infrastructure curriculum, the impact and significance of artificial intelligence, sustainability, and energy will be critical topics. In this course, students will learn how to think about energy resource planning in the context of emerging AI; the ongoing development of environmental standards and compliance; and the need to maintain ongoing relationships with communities.
MODULE 01: The People
MODULE 02: Management and Monitoring
MODULE 03: On the Water: Marine Maintenance
MODULE 04: The Life Cycle and Circular Economy
MODULE 05: Energy and Power
MODULE 06: Compliance and Data Sovereignty