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Operating System Foundations

In this course, we take a look at what an actual operating system is. People often confuse operating systems with browsers and many other things. We take a look at Windows versus Linux versus MacOS and discuss how these operating systems evolved. We also get into some technical detail about the components that make up an operating system.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Operating System Foundations

This is an introductory course to what an actual operating system is. People often confuse operating systems with browsers and many other things. We talk about the differences in the operating systems, Linux, Windows and MacOS, and how they came to be.

Windows Command Line Foundations

This course is an introduction to the Windows command line and includes hands-on exercises. The goal is not to make the learner a command-line master, but to provide an introduction that will make the student comfortable with bootcamps requiring command-line entry.

Linux Command line Foundations

This course gets the learner right into the thick of the command line from the Linux perspective and is designed to get the learner started on using Linux and the Linux command line. We spend time building students' confidence with the Linux command line so that really in-depth boot camps won't leave the learner struggling with topics like syntax. This course is an important step if you plan on pursuing a role such as entry-level pentester, cybersecurity analyst or basically any technical cybersecurity role.

Pen Test Demo

This course is a walkthrough of a typical penetration test. We end the course with a peek into the real world of a cybersecurity job role, as penetration testing is one of the expertise areas of the instructor.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops a foundational understanding of operating systems, making it a good starting point for learners new to the field

Covers different operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and MacOS, providing a comprehensive overview for learners

Includes hands-on exercises and a walkthrough of a typical penetration test, allowing learners to gain practical experience

Taught by Keatron Evans, an instructor with experience in cybersecurity

Provides a solid foundation for learners who plan to pursue entry-level roles in cybersecurity

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Operating System Foundations with these activities:

Review course syllabus and materials

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Familiarize yourself with the course structure, topics, and requirements to get a head start.

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Brush up on basic computer architecture

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Review foundational concepts in computer architecture to strengthen your understanding of operating systems.

Browse courses on Computer Architecture

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Follow tutorials on OS evolution

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Explore online tutorials and videos to learn about the historical evolution of operating systems.

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Two other activities

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Show all five activities

OS Concepts Mind Map

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Create a visual representation of operating system concepts to enhance your understanding and recall.

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Identify key concepts and components of operating systems
Create a visual mind map connecting these concepts
Explain relationships and dependencies between different OS components

Discuss OS design with peers

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Engage in group discussions or online forums to share insights and perspectives on operating system design.

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Career center

Learners who complete Operating System Foundations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Penetration Tester

Penetration Testers simulate cyberattacks on computer systems, networks, and web applications to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and security tools to find ways to exploit these vulnerabilities and gain unauthorized access to systems. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for Penetration Testers. The course also includes a walkthrough of a typical penetration test, which can help learners understand the real-world application of their skills.

See salaries and explore the career path for Penetration Tester

Cybersecurity Analyst

Cybersecurity Analysts protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and security tools to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities and threats. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for Cybersecurity Analysts. The course also includes a walkthrough of a typical penetration test, which can help learners understand the real-world application of their skills.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst

Systems Administrator

Systems Administrators manage and maintain computer systems. They use their knowledge of operating systems, hardware, and software to ensure that systems are running smoothly and securely. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for Systems Administrators. The course also covers topics such as system administration and troubleshooting, which are important for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

Network Administrator

Network Administrators manage and maintain computer networks. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and network security to ensure that networks are running smoothly and securely. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for Network Administrators. The course also covers topics such as network security and troubleshooting, which are important for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Security Engineer

Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain security systems to protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and security tools to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities and threats. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for Security Engineers. The course also covers topics such as network security and cryptography, which are important for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Engineer

IT Auditor

IT Auditors evaluate the security and compliance of computer systems, networks, and data. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and security tools to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities and threats. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for IT Auditors. The course also covers topics such as IT auditing and compliance, which are important for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Auditor

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts assess and mitigate risks to computer systems, networks, and data. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and security tools to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities and threats. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for Information Security Analysts. The course also covers topics such as information security and risk management, which are important for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Software Developer

Software Developers design, develop, and maintain computer software. They use their knowledge of programming languages, operating systems, and software development tools to create software applications. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for Software Developers. The course also covers topics such as software development and debugging, which are important for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

IT Consultant

IT Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on how to use technology to improve their business operations. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and software to help organizations identify and implement technology solutions. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for IT Consultants. The course also covers topics such as business analysis and project management, which are important for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Consultant

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts design and implement computer systems to meet the needs of organizations. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and software to create systems that are efficient, effective, and reliable. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for Systems Analysts. The course also covers topics such as systems analysis and design, which are important for this role.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create and maintain technical documentation for software, hardware, and other technical products. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and technical writing to create documentation that is clear, concise, and accurate. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for Technical Writers. The course also covers topics such as technical writing and documentation, which are important for this role.

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Network Security Engineer

Network Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain network security systems to protect networks from cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and security tools to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities and threats. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for Network Security Engineers. The course also covers topics such as network security and cryptography, which are important for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer

Computer Science Teacher

Computer Science Teachers teach computer science concepts and skills to students. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and programming to create lesson plans and activities that help students learn about computer science. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for Computer Science Teachers. The course also covers topics such as computer science education and pedagogy, which are important for this role.

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IT Project Manager

IT Project Managers plan and manage IT projects. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and software to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for IT Project Managers. The course also covers topics such as project management and risk management, which are important for this role.

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DevOps Engineer

DevOps Engineers bridge the gap between software development and operations teams. They use their knowledge of operating systems, networks, and software development to create and maintain software pipelines that are efficient and reliable. This course provides a foundation in operating systems and command-line tools, which are essential for DevOps Engineers. The course also covers topics such as DevOps and continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD), which are important for this role.

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Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Operating System Foundations.

Understanding the Linux Kernel

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"Understanding the Linux Kernel" book that provides a comprehensive overview of the Linux kernel. It covers topics such as architecture, memory management, process management, file systems, and security. It is recommended for those who want to learn more about the Linux kernel.

Operating System Foundations

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What's inside

Syllabus

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