Google Colab

Google Colab 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

• Overview of Colab Features Notebook

• Using Colab with GitHub

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