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Michael Brown

Working in IT requires a broad range of knowledge. This course teaches you foundational knowledge in software, hardware, and networking that you can use to help pass the CompTIA ITF+ certification exam and to help launch your career in IT.

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Working in IT requires a broad range of knowledge. This course teaches you foundational knowledge in software, hardware, and networking that you can use to help pass the CompTIA ITF+ certification exam and to help launch your career in IT.

When starting out in IT, there is so much information for you to take in that it can be a little overwhelming. In this course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, you’ll learn foundational skills in key areas that will be relevant for any new role in IT. First, you’ll explore IT concepts and terminology so that you can discuss key aspects of IT with your peers. Next, you’ll discover how IT Infrastructure is arranged so that you understand everything from laptops and servers through to storage and peripheral devices. Finally, you’ll learn how to work with networking and wireless networks. When you’re finished with this course, you’ll have the skills and knowledge of hardware, software, and networking needed to enhance your IT career and to help you pass the CompTIA ITF+ certification exam.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview
Understanding the Basics of Computing and Processing
Understanding Units of Measurements and Notational Systems
Understanding Data Types
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Understanding Computing Devices
Understanding Storage
Understanding Input/Output Device Interfaces
Working with Peripheral Devices
Understanding the Basics of Networking
Understanding Internet Service Types
Understanding Operating Systems
Understanding the Purpose and Use of Software
Understanding Application Architecture and Delivery
Understanding Application Licensing and Best Practices
Understanding Web Browser Configuration
Understanding Troubleshooting Methodology
Understanding the Importance of Data
Course Summary and What’s Next

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Addresses core concepts for those new to IT, including hardware, software, and networking technologies
Helps prepare learners for the CompTIA ITF+ certification, which validates foundational IT knowledge and skills
Provides foundational coverage of hardware and devices used in IT environments
Covers core networking concepts, including network types, internet services, and troubleshooting
Provides an overview of various operating systems and their roles in computing environments
Taught by Michael Brown, an experienced instructor known for his expertise in IT training and certification preparation

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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 CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking with these activities:
Brush up on basic math concepts
Review the math you'll need to succeed in this course, including concepts like algebra and arithmetic.
Browse courses on Arithmetic
Show steps
  • Revisit key concepts from pre-algebra and algebra
  • Practice solving equations and inequalities
  • Brush up on basic geometry concepts
Read 'CompTIA ITF+ Study Guide' by Mike Meyers
Supplement your learning by reading a recommended book that covers the key concepts of the course.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow the book
  • Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting important concepts
  • Complete any exercises or practice questions in the book
Join a study group with other students
Reinforce your understanding by discussing course concepts and working together with peers.
Show steps
  • Find or form a study group with other students
  • Meet regularly to discuss course material
  • Collaborate on projects and assignments
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Explore virtualization concepts with tutorials
Deepen your understanding of virtualization through guided tutorials that provide hands-on experience.
Browse courses on Virtualization
Show steps
  • Find tutorials on virtualization concepts and technologies
  • Follow the tutorials to set up and manage virtual machines
  • Experiment with different virtualization scenarios
Volunteer at a local IT support organization
Gain practical experience by providing IT support to users in a real-world setting.
Browse courses on IT Support
Show steps
  • Find a local IT support organization to volunteer with
  • Assist users with technical issues and provide support
  • Document and share your experiences
Practice troubleshooting network issues
Enhance your problem-solving abilities by practicing troubleshooting common network issues.
Browse courses on Troubleshooting
Show steps
  • Identify common network problems and their symptoms
  • Use diagnostic tools to isolate and resolve issues
  • Document and share your troubleshooting process
Attend a workshop on network security
Expand your knowledge and skills by attending a workshop focused on network security best practices.
Browse courses on network security
Show steps
  • Find and register for a network security workshop
  • Attend the workshop and actively participate
  • Implement the learned techniques and strategies in your own projects
Design and implement a network for a small business
Apply your knowledge by designing and implementing a network solution for a real-world scenario.
Browse courses on Network Design
Show steps
  • Gather requirements and define network specifications
  • Design the network topology and select appropriate hardware
  • Implement the network and configure devices
  • Test and document the network

Career center

Learners who complete CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Network Administrator
Network Administrators design, implement, and maintain networks. They ensure that networks are efficient, reliable, and secure. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may be useful for Network Administrators because it provides a foundation in networking. The exploration of hardware, software, and storage will also be useful.
IT Consultant
IT Consultants help businesses improve their use of technology. They may work with businesses to develop IT strategies, design and implement IT systems, and train employees on how to use new technologies. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may be useful for IT Consultants because it provides a foundation in IT concepts and terminology. The exploration of hardware, software, and networking will also be useful.
Network Security Engineer
Network Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain network security measures. They work to protect networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may be useful for Network Security Engineers because it provides a foundation in networking and security concepts. The exploration of hardware and software will also be useful.
Help Desk Technician
Help Desk Technicians provide technical support to users. They may work with users over the phone, email, or in person to resolve a variety of issues. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may be useful for Help Desk Technicians because it provides a foundation in hardware, software, and networking. The focus on troubleshooting methodology will also be helpful.
Computer Support Specialist
Computer Support Specialists help resolve a wide variety of computer-related issues, and are committed to maintaining efficient computer systems. They may provide support to internal staff as well as external customers. Some may specialize in sectors such as software or hardware support but typically do not specialize in any particular industry. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may help you gain the foundation you need for a career as a Computer Support Specialist, especially if you're interested in hardware. The focus on terminology, units of measurement, and the basics of networking would be applicable to this career. Beyond that, the exploration of storage, computing devices, and peripheral devices would also provide a stronger foundation.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity Analysts prevent, detect, and respond to cyber threats. They protect computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. To be successful, a strong foundation in IT infrastructure is necessary, and this course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, can provide exactly that. With a foundational knowledge of networking, storage, Input/Output Device Interfaces, and operating systems, you'll be able to hit the ground running as you learn the tools and technologies necessary for Cybersecurity Analysts.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts design, implement, and maintain security measures to protect an organization's information assets. They may also investigate security breaches and develop plans to prevent future breaches. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may be useful for Information Security Analysts because it provides a foundation in security concepts and terminology. The exploration of networking and storage will also be useful.
Software Developer
Software Developers design, develop, and test software. They work with users to gather requirements, then create and test software to meet those requirements. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may be useful for Software Developers because it provides a foundation in software development concepts. The exploration of hardware and networking will also be useful.
Quality Assurance Analyst
Quality Assurance Analysts test software to identify defects. They work with developers to fix defects and improve the quality of software. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may be useful for Quality Assurance Analysts because it provides a foundation in software testing concepts. The exploration of hardware, software, and networking will also be useful.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers apply engineering principles to the design, development, and maintenance of software. They work with users to gather requirements, then create and test software to meet those requirements. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may be useful for Software Engineers because it provides a foundation in software engineering concepts. The exploration of hardware and networking will also be useful.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects. They work with stakeholders to define project goals and objectives, develop project plans, and track project progress. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may be useful for Project Managers because it provides a foundation in project management concepts. The focus on understanding IT concepts and terminology will also be helpful.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts are responsible for collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to identify trends, patterns, and insights. They use their findings to help businesses make better decisions. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may be useful for Data Analysts because it provides a foundation in data types and how to work with them. Furthermore, the exploration of networking and storage may aid in understanding data flow and best practices for data security.
Database Administrator
Database Administrators are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining databases. They ensure that databases are efficient, reliable, and secure. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may be useful for Database Administrators because it provides a foundation in storage and networking. The exploration of data types and Input/Output Device Interfaces will also be useful.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts study business problems and develop solutions using information technology. They may work with a variety of stakeholders to define and gather requirements, then create and test systems to meet those requirements. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may be useful for Systems Analysts because it provides a foundation in systems analysis concepts. The focus on understanding IT concepts and terminology will also be helpful.
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analysts study business problems and develop solutions using information technology. They may work with a variety of stakeholders to define and gather requirements, then create and test systems to meet those requirements. This course, CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking, may help build a foundation for understanding the business operations side of Computer Systems Analysis. The focus on understanding hardware, software, and networking will allow you to have a stronger foundation to build upon.

Reading list

We've selected 14 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 CompTIA ITF+: Hardware, Software, and Networking.
Can supplement the course by providing a robust discussion of IT concepts and terminology. It good companion to use for background knowledge as it is in-depth and detailed in its explanations with simple language.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer networking. It will be useful as a detailed reference if you want to know more about this topic.
Provides a methodology for performance analysis and will be a useful addition to the more theoretical approaches covered in the course.
This textbook provides an in-depth look at operating system concepts. It can be used as a supplementary resource if you are interested in pursuing further study.
Provides a comprehensive overview of data-intensive text processing using MapReduce. It will be useful as a reference if you want to know more about this topic.
This textbook provides an in-depth look at data structures and algorithms in Python. It can be used as a supplementary resource if you are interested in pursuing further study.
Provides a detailed overview of deep learning with Python. It will be useful as a reference if you want to know more about this topic.
This textbook provides an in-depth look at algorithms. It can be used as a supplementary resource if you are interested in pursuing further study.
Provides a comprehensive overview of reinforcement learning. It will be useful as a reference if you want to know more about this topic.
This textbook provides an in-depth look at discrete mathematics. It can be used as a supplementary resource if you are interested in pursuing further study.
This textbook provides an in-depth look at computer science. It can be used as a supplementary resource if you are interested in pursuing further study.
This handbook provides an in-depth look at the hardware hacking scene as it’s less concerned with the computing components and more concerned with the components that don’t compute, namely, all the hardware-based security systems.

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