6 Hands-On VPC Projects to Master Networking, Security, and Cloud Architecture
AWS Chapter 1.11 : Learn, Build, and Master AWS VPCs with Real-World Networking Challenges
For a DevOps professional, networking is more than just connecting resources—it's about architecting secure, scalable, and efficient systems that support real-world workloads. AWS Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs) form the backbone of these architectures. Mastering VPCs is essential to building robust cloud solutions.
Here are 6 practical VPC projects designed to sharpen your skills in networking, security, and cloud architecture.
1. Design and Implement Subnetting with CIDR
What You'll Do: Plan and create a VPC with subnets of varying sizes using CIDR blocks. Design a network layout with efficient IP allocation, including public, private, and isolated subnets.
What You’ll Learn: CIDR notation, subnetting strategies, and IP address allocation best practices.
Real-World Application: Efficiently allocate and manage IP addresses for scalable cloud environments.
2. Build a Secure Multi-Tier Architecture
What You'll Do: Create a VPC with public (web), private (app), and database tiers. Configure route tables and security groups to isolate each tier and control traffic flow.
What You’ll Learn: Network segmentation, tiered architecture design, and applying the principle of least privilege.
Real-World Application: Build secure, scalable environments for enterprise-grade applications.
3. Configure a DMZ with a Bastion Host
What You'll Do: Set up a bastion host in a dedicated DMZ subnet. Use strict NACL rules to allow SSH access only to the bastion. Harden the Linux instance for security and logging.
What You’ll Learn: DMZ setup, secure access patterns, and Linux hardening for cloud environments.
Real-World Application: Provide secure, controlled access to sensitive resources in private subnets.
4. Set Up VPC Peering for Inter-VPC Communication
What You'll Do: Establish a peering connection between two VPCs in different regions. Configure routes and security groups to enable communication while avoiding internet exposure.
What You’ll Learn: VPC peering, inter-VPC routing, and managing security across VPCs.
Real-World Application: Enable cross-region or hybrid architecture communication securely.
5. Master NACLs and Security Groups for Traffic Control
What You'll Do: Implement fine-grained access control by configuring Network ACLs (NACLs) and security groups. Allow and block traffic at different layers to secure the VPC.
What You’ll Learn: Layered security, the difference between NACLs and security groups, and practical traffic management.
Real-World Application: Harden your VPC against unauthorized access while maintaining essential functionality.
6. Create a Custom NAT Server for Private Subnet Internet Access
What You'll Do: Use an Ubuntu Linux instance to set up a custom NAT server. Enable internet access for instances in private subnets by configuring IP forwarding and iptables.
What You’ll Learn: The role of NAT servers, manual NAT configuration, and comparison with AWS NAT Gateway.
Real-World Application: Understand the inner workings of NAT and cost-effective alternatives to managed NAT services.
Why These Projects Matter for DevOps Professionals
These projects are designed to reflect real-world scenarios you’ll encounter in cloud and DevOps roles. Completing them will give you a solid grasp of networking, security, and cloud architecture—essential skills for designing and managing production environments.
Ready to Build These Projects?
At the AWS Cohort, part of our DevOps Minidegree Program, we take these projects from concept to reality. With expert guidance and a community of peers, you’ll gain practical, hands-on experience to accelerate your DevOps career.
👉 Join the AWS Cohort Now!
Transform your knowledge into real-world expertise—one project at a time! 🚀
Explore the Complete VPC Guide for DevOps Professionals
Loved this article? This is just one chapter from the Ultimate VPC Guide for DevOps Professionals—a comprehensive series designed to help you master VPCs, networking, and cloud architecture. Whether you’re preparing for a DevOps career or enhancing your existing skills, this guide has everything you need, from hands-on projects to interview questions.
👉 Read the full guide here and take your first step toward becoming a VPC and DevOps expert!