Introduction to Computers from Coursera

This course has been designed for individuals seeking entry-level positions in IT support. Whether you're a recent graduate, a career changer, or someone looking to kickstart your career in the tech industry, it will provide you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in the field of IT support.

In this course, you’ll explore computer systems and the security threats that computer users have to deal with. You'll learn about key components like the CPU, memory, storage, and peripherals. You’ll cover how these components interact with the operating system, including CPU processes, memory management, and the role of device drivers. Finally, you’ll explore essential concepts defining hardware and software relationships for a comprehensive understanding of system functionality.

After completing this course, you’ll be able to:

• Identify the key components of a computer system, encompassing hardware elements such as

CPU, memory, storage devices, input/output devices, and peripherals.

• Describe the interaction between computer system components and the operating system,

including how the CPU processes instructions, memory management, and the role of device

drivers.

• Discuss the essential concepts that define the relationship between security, hardware and

software, fostering a comprehensive understanding of system functionality.

This is also a great way to prepare for the Microsoft MS-900 exam. By passing the MS-900 exam, you’ll earn the Microsoft 365 Fundamentals certification.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to computers and operating systems

This module provides you with a foundational understanding of computer systems, focusing on the intricate relationship between hardware and software. The module starts off by informing you about the current threat landscape of the computing world, giving insight into some of the challenges faced by computer support specialists. You'll explore key hardware components, operating systems, and software types, including their development and functionality. The module covers essential concepts such as memory management, system updates, and network communication, culminating in practical activities to reinforce learning. This comprehensive module is designed to equip you with the knowledge needed to understand and interact effectively with computer technology.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

You will study how to identify a computer system's key hardware components, such as CPU, memory, storage devices, input/output devices, and peripherals

You will learn the intricate relationship between computer system components and the operating system, as well as how instructions are processed by the CPU and the role of memory management and device drivers

You will secure your knowledge of essential concepts about the relationship between hardware, software, and security, which will help you understand system functionality

You will participate in hands-on exercises to practice your skills, such as learning how to design and configure an efficient computer system

You will have the opportunity to eam the Microsoft 365 Fundamentals certification by passing the MS-900 exam

You will learn about different types of software and hardware and how they work together to perform various tasks in a business context

Reviews summary

Solid foundation for it support

According to students, this course offers a largely positive experience, serving as a solid foundation for those new to IT, particularly those aiming for entry-level IT support roles. Learners consistently highlight the course's effectiveness in introducing key computer components and operating system interactions. The practical final project is frequently cited as a valuable hands-on experience, helping to solidify understanding. Many appreciate its direct relevance for Microsoft MS-900 exam preparation. While generally well-received for beginners, some experienced learners felt the content was too basic. A few reviews also noted potential areas for improvement regarding the currency of some examples, but the core concepts remain highly relevant.

Perfect for novices, potentially basic for others.

"If you've never touched a computer's internals, this course is amazing. For me, with some background, it was a bit too introductory."

"I really benefited from the step-by-step approach, but my friend who is already in IT found it moved too slowly."

"It's a great 'introduction' but don't expect deep dives into advanced topics; it really sticks to the basics."

Directly prepares for IT roles and MS-900.

"The final project was incredibly useful, allowing me to apply what I learned to a real-world scenario."

"This course was exactly what I needed to get ready for the Microsoft MS-900 exam. The topics align perfectly."

"I appreciate how the course focused on practical skills directly applicable to IT support roles."

Excellent for building core IT knowledge.

"This course gave me a really solid understanding of basic computer components and how they all work together."

"As someone entirely new to IT, I found the explanations clear and the concepts easy to grasp, a perfect starting point."

"I learned essential concepts of hardware and software relationships that I needed for my first IT job."

Some examples could use a modern update.

"While the core concepts are timeless, some screenshots and references felt a little dated, like Windows 7."

"I wish the course would update some of its demonstration software to more current versions."

"The general principles are sound, but visually, it could use a refresh with modern interfaces."

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 Introduction to Computers with these activities:

Review computer science basics

Show steps

Brush up on the concepts that will prepare you for this course

Show steps

Review essential concepts such as data types, variables, and operators
Solve practice problems to apply your understanding

Volunteer at a local computer repair shop or IT non-profit

Show steps

Gain hands-on experience while supporting your community

Browse courses on IT Support

Show steps

Identify volunteer opportunities at local organizations
Assist with basic computer repairs, troubleshooting, and IT support tasks

Volunteer to mentor students interested in IT

Show steps

Share your knowledge and gain valuable experience by mentoring others

Show steps

Connect with students through mentorship programs or platforms
Provide guidance, technical support, and career advice to mentees

Five other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all eight activities

Practice troubleshooting computer hardware

Show steps

Enhance your understanding of computer systems by working through practical exercises

Browse courses on Hardware Troubleshooting

Show steps

Identify common hardware issues and their potential causes
Diagnose and resolve hardware problems using simulation tools

Follow tutorials on enterprise systems and security

Show steps

Gain insights from experts by following step-by-step guides

Show steps

Explore tutorials on topics such as servers, storage, and security
Apply knowledge gained to practical examples

Develop a resource collection for IT support

Show steps

Build a valuable resource that you can refer to in your future IT support career

Show steps

Identify valuable resources such as technical documentation, online forums, and tools
Organize the resources into a structured and accessible format
Continuously update and improve the resource collection as new information becomes available

Design a system configuration for a small business

Show steps

Apply your knowledge to a real-world scenario by creating a system configuration

Browse courses on System Design

Show steps

Select appropriate hardware and software components
Gather requirements and assess business needs
Design the system architecture and network topology
Document the system configuration for future reference

Participate in IT support competitions

Show steps

Test your skills and gain recognition by participating in IT competitions

Show steps

Identify relevant competitions and research their requirements
Prepare for the competitions by practicing and studying
Participate in the competitions and demonstrate your abilities

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Computers will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We haven't picked any books for this reading list yet.

Introduction to Computers

Here's a deal for you

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Solid foundation for it support

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses

Coursera Buyer Protection & Guarantee

7-Day Free Trial & Free Audit

14-Day Refund Guarantee

Verified Academic & Industry Partner