Computer Hardware and Software from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Hardware

Computing and information systems are some of the fastest growing fields in the world. The skills needed to build computers, configure security networks, and engineer software are highly valued throughout the global workforce. The possibilities are endless, exciting, and this module will provide you with the basic foundation needed to take the first steps into the world of computer information systems. You will start with readings and exercises that will teach you how computers are made and how to use hardware to create the most energy efficient and productive computers. The module concludes with a learning activity in which students will practice assembling a computer.

Software

In your last module, you learned all about hardware. You studied how motherboards, hard disks, power supplies and other components work together to create a basic computer. However, a computer is a lot more than a series of wires and circuits. In order for a computer to function, it needs to communicate with its user and be told what to do. In this module, you will learn all about operating systems and other types of software that make it possible for a user to communicate with a computer and give it commands that make it a fully functional machine. This module will prepare you for your final module, in which students are asked to use software to design a network security system.

Networking and the Internet

In your last module, you learned about software, how to communicate with a computer, and give it demands that transform it into a fully functional productivity tool. In this course's final module, you will learn how computers can communicate with each other on the internet. You will learn about basic network addressing, the domain system, and fundamental internet protocols. You will also learn some basic history about the creation of the internet. Upon completion of this module, you will have the foundational knowledge of computing and information systems needed to proceed to the next course in this specialization.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Covers the entire lifecycle of a computer, from assembly to software installation to networking

Teaches hardware, software, and networking fundamentals, which are essential for IT professionals

Provides hands-on experience in assembling a computer

Examines the history and fundamentals of the Internet

Teaches essential networking concepts, such as addressing and protocols

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 Computer Hardware and Software with these activities:

Learn the Fundamentals of Computer Science

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Build a solid foundation in computer science principles and concepts by reading this book.

View Programming and Problem Solving with C++ on Amazon

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Read the first three chapters of the book.
Complete the practice exercises at the end of each chapter.
Create a summary of the key concepts covered in the chapters.

Follow Tutorials on Software Development

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Expand your programming knowledge by following guided tutorials.

Browse courses on Software Development

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Identify a programming language or software development topic that you want to learn.
Find reputable online tutorials or courses for the chosen topic.
Follow the tutorials step-by-step and complete the exercises.

Organize and Review Course Materials

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Stay organized and improve your retention by compiling and reviewing course materials.

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Gather all course materials, including lecture notes, presentations, assignments, and readings.
Organize the materials into a logical structure.
Review the materials regularly to reinforce your learning.

Six other activities

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Practice Coding with Python Exercises

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Sharpen your programming skills by solving Python coding exercises.

Browse courses on Python Programming

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Solve at least 10 coding exercises from a reputable online platform.
Write your own Python code to implement a simple program.
Review and debug your code to identify and fix errors.

Join a Study Group for This Course

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Enhance your learning by collaborating with peers in a study group.

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Find a study group for the course.
Attend study group meetings regularly.
Participate in discussions and share your knowledge.

Build a Computer Simulation

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Deepen your understanding of computer architecture by simulating a computer.

Browse courses on Computer Architecture

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Choose a computer architecture simulator.
Build a model of a simple computer using the simulator.
Write a program to run on your simulated computer.

Attend a Networking and IT Career Fair

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Explore career opportunities and network with professionals in the IT industry.

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Research upcoming networking events and IT career fairs.
Register for the event and prepare your resume and elevator pitch.
Attend the event and connect with potential employers.

Design a Network Security System

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Apply your knowledge of networking and security to design a robust network security system.

Browse courses on network security

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Gather requirements for the network security system.
Research and select appropriate security technologies.
Design the network security architecture.
Implement and test the network security system.

Volunteer at a Tech Support Center

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Gain practical experience and help others by volunteering at a tech support center.

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Find a tech support center or organization that accepts volunteers.
Sign up for volunteer shifts.
Assist customers with technical issues.

Career center

Learners who complete Computer Hardware and Software will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Computer Engineering Technician

A Computer Engineering Technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing computer hardware and software. Taking this course can provide you with a solid foundation in computer hardware and software. This course will help you build a strong understanding of computer architecture, operating systems, and networking.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Engineering Technician

Software Engineer

A Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing software applications. If you're interested in a career as a Software Engineer, this course provides a great foundation. This course covers everything you need to know about computer hardware and software, from the basics to the most advanced concepts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Computer Hardware Engineer

A Computer Hardware Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing computer hardware. This course can help you build a strong foundation in Computer Hardware and Software. You will learn about the basics of computer hardware and software, as well as how to design, develop, and test computer hardware.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Hardware Engineer

Systems Administrator

A Systems Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining computer systems. Completing this course will provide you with a foundational understanding of how computers process information through hardware and software. This course will give you the skills you need to be successful in this field, including system administration, networking, and security.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

Computer Systems Analyst

A Computer Systems Analyst is responsible for analyzing, designing, and implementing computer systems. This course will teach you how computers process information through hardware and software. You will also learn about operating systems, programs and apps, network fundamentals, the Internet, and security and ethics.

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Computer Software Engineer

A Computer Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing computer software. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Computer Hardware and Software. You will learn about the basics of computer hardware and software, as well as how to design, develop, and test computer software.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Software Engineer

Quality Assurance Analyst

A Quality Assurance Analyst is responsible for testing and ensuring the quality of software products. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Computer Hardware and Software. You will learn about the basics of computer hardware and software, as well as how to test and ensure the quality of software products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst

Chief Information Officer (CIO)

A Chief Information Officer (CIO) is responsible for aligning technology strategy with business goals. Especially if you've also had experience in a related role like Network Analyst, taking this course will help you build a foundation in Computer Hardware and Software. This course will give you a better understanding of the tools and systems that are essential to your success.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chief Information Officer (CIO)

Information Technology (IT) Project Manager

An IT Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing information technology (IT) projects. If you are eager to take on an IT Project Manager role, this course can help you develop a foundational understanding of how computers process information through hardware and software. This course covers everything you need to know to be successful in this role, from hardware to software to networking and the internet.

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Technical Support Specialist

A Technical Support Specialist is responsible for providing technical support to users of computer hardware and software. If you want to work as a Technical Support Specialist, this course is perfect for you. You will learn about the basics of computer hardware and software, as well as how to troubleshoot and resolve technical problems.

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Mobile Application Developer

A Mobile Application Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining mobile applications. If you want to work as a Mobile Application Developer, this course will be extremely valuable. You will learn about the basics of computer hardware and software, as well as how to design and develop mobile applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mobile Application Developer

Web Developer

A Web Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining websites. If you are looking to become a web developer, then this course will help you build a strong foundation in Computer Hardware and Software. You will learn about the basics of computer hardware and software, as well as how to design and develop websites.

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Database Administrator

A Database Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining databases. This course covers everything you need to know to be successful in this role, from hardware to software to networking and the internet.

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Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst is responsible for protecting an organization's computer systems and networks from security threats. This course can help to provide a foundation in computer hardware and software as well as security and ethics. This course will help you to understand the latest security threats and how to protect against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Network Architect

A Network Architect is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining computer networks. If you're interested in a career as a Network Architect, this course may be helpful. This course will provide you with a foundational understanding of computer hardware and software, which is essential for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Architect