> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://prof-rossetti.gitbook.io/intro-to-python/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://prof-rossetti.gitbook.io/intro-to-python/notes/devtools/google-colab.md).

# Google Colab

[Google Colab](https://colab.research.google.com/) enables the remote development and execution of Python programs in the cloud, instead of on your local computer.

A colab document is essentially a Python notebook in Google Drive. Python notebooks use a mix of "code cells" and "text cells" to produce outputs helpful for instructional and presentation purposes.

Here are more essential resources for learning how to use Colab:

* [Intro to Colab Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inN8seMm7UI)
* [Overview of Colab Features Notebook](https://colab.research.google.com/notebooks/basic_features_overview.ipynb)
* [Using Colab with GitHub](https://colab.research.google.com/github/googlecolab/colabtools/blob/master/notebooks/colab-github-demo.ipynb)

## Colab Notebooks vs Local Development

Colab is a ground-breaking new tool, but still has limitations, primarily in the areas of security, flexibility, and reproducibility.

Colab Notebook Advantages:

* Minimal learning curve
* High degree of visibility and shareability
* Effective presentation when code mixed with markdown and data visualizations
* Potential for GPU / TPU processing power

Colab Notebook Disadvantages:

* Can only write and execute Python code, not other languages
* Harder to secure credentials and environment variables
* Minimal processing power and parallel processing capabilities by default (excluding GPU / TPU)
* Relatively low degree of customization
* Unable to run certain kinds of apps, like web apps written in the Flask framework

Local Development Advantages:

* Can write and execute code written in many different languages and frameworks
* Greater ability to secure credentials and environment variables
* Greater degree of customization / control
* Greater privacy (not managed by Google)
* More processing power and parallel processing capabilities (excluding GPU / TPU)

Local Development Disadvantages:

* Steeper learning curve, likely many tools to learn
* Not as easily shareable, unless pushing code to GitHub or a remote server