Learning plan cover

Master system design & backend technologies

LEARNING PLAN

Master system design & backend technologies

This comprehensive learning path bridges traditional backend engineering with cutting-edge AI systems, preparing you for the modern tech landscape where intelligent applications are becoming the norm. It's ideal for software engineers looking to level up to senior/staff roles, backend developers wanting to add AI capabilities to their skill set, or technical leads responsible for architecting next-generation systems that combine scalability with artificial intelligence.

ByCommunity User
3 h 11 m
12 coursesUpdated 4 hours ago
System Design Interview – An Insider's GuideDesigning Data-Intensive ApplicationsSoftware Architecture Demystified11 sources

How This Learning Plan Was Made

This plan was crafted by BeFreed’s proprietary AI to help you learn Master system design & backend technologies with ease. It is curated from in-depth research on the topic and structured around the most effective learning journeys proven by BeFreed users.

Each episode delivers bite-sized, high-impact lessons distilled from world-class sources — bestselling books, research papers, and expert insights. Together, they form a sophisticated yet accessible path to mastering Master system design & backend technologies.

What You'll Learn

  • Master scalable system design principles and distributed architecture patterns used by top tech companies
  • Build production-grade backend systems with microservices, RESTful APIs, and clean code practices
  • Gain expertise in database design, SQL optimization, and choosing the right data storage solutions for different use cases
  • Learn to architect and orchestrate AI agents, integrate vector databases, and deploy autonomous AI systems
  • Develop the technical depth to design end-to-end systems that handle real-world scale, complexity, and AI workloads

Master the core principles of designing scalable, reliable systems from the ground up—covering architecture patterns, distributed systems fundamentals, and real-world design trade-offs.

System Design Interview – An Insider's Guide cover
System Design Interview – An Insider's Guide

Practical guide for acing system design interviews

9 m
Designing Data-Intensive Applications cover
Designing Data-Intensive Applications

Comprehensive guide to building scalable data systems

9 m
podcast cover
Software EngineeringA Philosophy of Software Design, 2nd EditionClean ArchitectureSoftware Architecture in Practice
12 sources
Software Architecture Demystified

Explore the invisible foundation of software systems that goes beyond diagrams to create shared understanding among developers, and learn why good architecture accelerates rather than slows development.

39 m

Build production-ready backend systems using microservices architecture, clean code principles, and scalable API design patterns that power modern applications.

Building Microservices cover
Building Microservices

Comprehensive guide to designing, implementing, and scaling microservices architectures, covering key concepts, technologies, and real-world applications for distributed systems.

9 m
Clean Code cover
Clean Code

A practical guide to writing readable, maintainable code that will make you a better programmer and team player.

9 m
podcast cover
source 1source 2source 3source 4
6 sources
Senior Backend Interview Mastery Guide

Comprehensive preparation strategy for senior backend interviews covering system design frameworks, distributed systems principles, microservices architecture, and production-ready engineering practices that separate senior engineers from junior developers.

11 m

Deep dive into database design, SQL mastery, and data-intensive application patterns—learning when to use relational vs NoSQL databases and how to optimize for scale.

Designing Data-Intensive Applications cover
Designing Data-Intensive Applications

Comprehensive guide to building scalable data systems

9 m
podcast cover
10 Essential SQL Concepts Every Developer Should Know10 Core SQL Concepts Every Developer Needs to Know10 Essential SQL Queries Every Developer Should KnowSQL Query Optimization | Best Practices & Techniques - Acceldata
6 sources
SQL Mastery: Essential Concepts That Actually Matter

Learn the most impactful SQL fundamentals that separate basic querying from real-world database expertise. Master relationships, optimization, and performance strategies that scale.

10 m
podcast cover
source 1RAG Architecture: Complete Guide to Retrieval-Augmented ...Reference Architecture : Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG)Optimizing Chunking, Embedding, and Vectorization for Retrieval ...
6 sources
RAG & Vector Databases: Cloud Architecture Deep Dive

Master RAG implementation from chunking strategies to Kubernetes deployment patterns. Explore vector database selection, optimization techniques, and production-ready cloud architectures for enterprise AI systems.

23 m

Explore the cutting edge of autonomous AI systems—from building intelligent agents and vector databases to orchestrating complex AI workflows in production environments.

podcast cover
What Is ChatGPT Doing ... and Why Does It Work?Make Your Own Neural NetworkChatGPT For DummiesArtificial Intelligence and Generative AI for Beginners
13 sources
Building AI Agents: Beyond Chatbots

Discover how LLMs have evolved from text generators to action-taking AI agents. Learn the neural architecture behind these systems and how to build your own agents that can understand goals and execute complex tasks autonomously.

32 m
podcast cover
What is RAG? - Retrieval-Augmented Generation AI Explained - AWSWhat is Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG)? - DatabricksRAG vs Traditional LLMs: Key Differences - Galileo AIIntroduction to RAG (Retrieval Augmented Generation) and Vector ...
6 sources
RAG vs LLMs: The AI Revolution Explained

Deep dive into Retrieval-Augmented Generation and vector databases - discover how RAG transforms AI accuracy by 13%, cuts costs 20x, and why it's replacing traditional LLMs in enterprise applications.

20 m
Co-Intelligence cover
Co-Intelligence

Collaborative intelligence in business and society

11 m

Users also liked

Master in-demand tech skills

Master in-demand tech skills

LEARNING PLAN

Master in-demand tech skills

This learning plan provides a comprehensive path from programming fundamentals to advanced system architecture, covering the most sought-after skills in today's tech industry. It's ideal for aspiring software engineers, career changers looking to break into tech, and developers wanting to level up from junior to mid-level positions. With AI/ML expertise and cloud architecture knowledge increasingly becoming baseline requirements, this curriculum addresses the complete modern developer skill set employers are actively seeking.

2 h 15 m4 Sections
Algorithm and ai

Algorithm and ai

LEARNING PLAN

Algorithm and ai

This learning path bridges the essential gap between classical computer science and modern artificial intelligence, preparing you for the AI-driven technology landscape. Whether you're a software developer looking to transition into machine learning, a student building career-ready skills, or a professional seeking to understand and leverage AI in your field, this comprehensive plan takes you from algorithmic foundations through advanced AI systems with practical, hands-on experience.

2 h 28 m4 Sections
Master AI & ML for career advancement

Master AI & ML for career advancement

LEARNING PLAN

Master AI & ML for career advancement

This learning plan is designed for aspiring AI professionals who want to transition into one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying tech fields. Whether you're a complete beginner or a developer looking to specialize in AI, this structured path takes you from foundational concepts through advanced implementation skills, culminating in career-ready expertise that employers actively seek in today's AI-driven market.

1 h 58 m4 Sections
Master software engineering

Master software engineering

LEARNING PLAN

Master software engineering

This comprehensive learning path takes you from foundational principles to elite-level engineering expertise, covering the full spectrum of skills needed to excel in modern software development. It's ideal for intermediate developers looking to level up their careers, engineers transitioning to senior roles, or anyone who wants to move beyond writing code to architecting systems and leading technical initiatives.

2 h 21 m4 Sections
Expand IT skills in dev, programming & AI

Expand IT skills in dev, programming & AI

LEARNING PLAN

Expand IT skills in dev, programming & AI

This learning plan is designed for professionals looking to transition into or advance within the technology sector, particularly in software development and AI. It's ideal for career changers, traditional IT professionals seeking to modernize their skillset, or anyone wanting to understand and leverage the technologies shaping the future of work. The progression from foundational programming to cutting-edge AI ensures you build both the core competencies and specialized knowledge needed in today's tech-driven economy.

2 h 35 m4 Sections
design!

design!

LEARNING PLAN

design!

This comprehensive design learning path is essential for anyone looking to build or elevate their design career in today's innovation-driven landscape. It's ideal for aspiring designers seeking structured skill development, product managers wanting to think more like designers, entrepreneurs needing to create user-centered solutions, and experienced designers aiming to reach strategic leadership levels. The curriculum bridges foundational knowledge with cutting-edge practice, ensuring you're prepared for both current design challenges and future AI-integrated workflows.

1 h 47 m4 Sections
Learn computer

Learn computer

LEARNING PLAN

Learn computer

This comprehensive learning plan takes you from computer basics to advanced software engineering and AI, providing the complete skillset needed in today's technology-driven world. It's ideal for career changers, students, or professionals looking to gain deep technical knowledge and become creators rather than just consumers of technology. The structured progression ensures both theoretical understanding and practical coding abilities that are immediately applicable in real-world scenarios.

3 h 37 m4 Sections
Ai

Ai

LEARNING PLAN

Ai

This learning plan provides a holistic education in AI for professionals, entrepreneurs, and technologists who need to understand both how AI works and how to apply it responsibly. Whether you're building AI products, making strategic technology decisions, or preparing for an AI-transformed future, this curriculum bridges the gap between technical understanding and real-world application. It's ideal for business leaders, product managers, aspiring AI practitioners, and anyone seeking to navigate the AI revolution with both competence and wisdom.

3 h4 Sections

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 200,000+ Curious Minds

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
platform
comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
platform
comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
platform
comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
star
star
star

See More Stories?

How people are talking about BeFreed across the web
Start your learning journey, now