DevOps engineer, what does it mean?
1. DevOps, what does it mean?
A concept for process improvement in software development and system administration is called DevOps. The term origin - Development and IT Operations. In this case, the traditionally isolated departments of development and IT operations should work together. Another goal is to optimize development productivity and functional reliability. The software tools used are Docker, Github, Gitlab and BitBucket.
A DevOps Engineer is a combination of software development (developer) and system engineering (administrator).
2. Tasks of a DevOps Engineer
Since the DevOps expert holds an interface function, he has different tasks, for example:
- to write scripts and develop tools for agile software development;
- to perform administrative tasks;
- to monitor and implement software tests;
- to search and optimize solutions for operational processes;
- to set up frequent and small updates in agile software development using pull requests.
Another important DevOps task is to develop and apply micro service architecture. What is that again? Microservices solve such challenges of monolithic systems, that require new software versions even for small code changes. Micro services are as modular as possible. They help to develop an application as a collection of small utilities, all of which run in a separate process and can be used individually. These utilities can be written in different languages and use several data storages. As this results in the development of systems that are scalable and flexible, it demands a dynamic redesign.
3. Advantages of a DevOps Engineer
Companies can involve their stakeholders more closely in the development process using agile methods. Frequent, small updates reduce the risk of late-detected errors. It is easier to find bugs from update to update and they can be fixed in smaller units. The result is a better and more cost-effective product. The combination of micro service architecture and high update frequency makes business applications more flexible and enables faster innovation cycles.
The increased frequency of deployment means new operational challenges. DevOps methods should enable reliable deployments under these conditions. Every code change requires a variety of automated tests.
DevOps engineers can also use monitoring and logging methods to track application and infrastructure performance and quickly respond to problems.
4. What kind of skills does a DevOps engineer need?
It is essential for DevOps Engineers to understand programming and to like scripting. Typical programming languages are Python, Java, Ruby and PHP. On the administrative side, knowledge of various server systems for Windows, Mac or Linux is also important, especially security concepts. Another "must" is the safe use of open source technologies and tools. A lifelong study is essential in IT to adapt to the latest technical innovations. Google and YouTube are the best friends of every DevOps.