Course description

In this practical lab, you'll configure a fully secure Nginx web server on an Ubuntu EC2 instance using free SSL/TLS certificates from Let's Encrypt. You'll start by setting up a domain record in AWS Route 53, installing and configuring Nginx, and then using Certbot to obtain and install an SSL certificate. You'll also configure automatic certificate renewal to ensure ongoing security. By the end of this lab, you'll have a production-ready HTTPS-enabled web server and a clear understanding of how to automate SSL certificate management.

Additionally, all learners receive dedicated online support through our Slack workspace where you can ask questions, get troubleshooting help, and interact with our team throughout the entire project.

Click here to access Slack workspace link

What will i learn?

  • Configure a domain name in AWS Route 53 to point to an EC2 instance
  • Install and configure Nginx on Ubuntu
  • Use Certbot to obtain and install a Let's Encrypt SSL certificate
  • Enable automatic certificate renewal
  • Verify HTTPS configuration and test secure web server access

Requirements

  • An AWS account with EC2 and Route 53 access
  • A registered domain name
  • Ubuntu EC2 instance with SSH access
  • Basic familiarity with Linux command line and Nginx
  • Security group allowing ports 22 (SSH), 80 (HTTP), and 443 (HTTPS)

Frequently asked question

Let's Encrypt provides free Domain Validation (DV) certificates that are just as secure as paid certificates for enabling HTTPS. It’s ideal for personal projects, testing, and production sites where OV/EV validation isn’t required.

Yes, you’ll need a registered domain name and access to its DNS settings (via AWS Route 53 or another provider) to create an A record pointing to your EC2 instance.

Yes, Let's Encrypt certificates are valid for 90 days. However, Certbot automates renewal, so you don’t have to manually renew them if set up correctly.

Akinola Ojuola

Cloud Solution Architect, DevOps Consultant & Trainer

Akinola Ojuola is a seasoned Cloud Solution Architect, DevOps Consultant and technical trainer with over 20 years of industry expertise. Throughout his career, he has worked with some of the world’s most prominent technology-driven organisations, including IBM, Fujitsu, Walmart, and MasterCard, delivering transformative solutions across various sectors. Akinola has trained and mentored more than 1,000 students across 18 countries on five continents. His commitment to real-world, practical learning has enabled hundreds of learners to launch successful careers in global tech companies. He is passionate about practical, real-world learning. His teaching approach blends deep technical knowledge with hands-on, enterprise-level experience. He holds multiple industry certifications and leads advanced projects in Cloud Architecture, DevOps, DevSecOps, and Artificial Intelligence for both private enterprises and public institutions.Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your tech career, you’ll gain valuable, job-ready skills under his guidance.

$10

Lectures

1

Skill level

Intermediate

Expiry period

1 Months

Certificate

Yes

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