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Information Technology (IT) Fundamentals for Everyone

With 25 million more project professionals being needed globally by 2030 (Project Management Institute), the demand for talented individuals with good underpinning IT knowledge is exploding. This Information Technology (IT) Fundamentals course is designed specifically for non-technical professionals who want to collaborate effectively with IT teams and make informed decisions.

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With 25 million more project professionals being needed globally by 2030 (Project Management Institute), the demand for talented individuals with good underpinning IT knowledge is exploding. This Information Technology (IT) Fundamentals course is designed specifically for non-technical professionals who want to collaborate effectively with IT teams and make informed decisions.

In this course, you'll learn the essentials of hardware, operating systems, and the foundational concepts of software, programming, and databases. You’ll explore how different types of hardware function, from printers to display devices, and how operating systems manage files and folders. Plus, you’ll discover the basics of software applications, web browsers, programming languages, and how databases store and manipulate data.

You'll also gain an understanding of networking, including network topologies, cables, and how to manage network settings. You’ll learn about storage solutions, from local devices to hosted systems. Plus, you’ll be introduced to cybersecurity fundamentals, covering key concepts like data integrity, threat management, and safe browsing practices.

As you learn, you’ll work on hands-on labs that enable you to apply your new skills in a practical setting. And you’ll test your knowledge with a comprehensive assessment and gain insights into troubleshooting and ticketing systems for IT support.

If you’re a project-oriented professional looking to build a strong, non-technical understanding of IT for your job, ENROLL TODAY and build the job-ready IT skills you need in just 6 weeks.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Job-ready it skills non-technical project professionals need in just 6 weeks, supported by practical experience employers look for on a resume and an industry-recognized credential.
  • The essentials of operating systems, computer components, programming concepts, databases, and the difference between commercial and open software.
  • The importance of computer networks, including wired and wireless connections; explore network resources and storage types in ms windows.
  • How to protect against security threats, address public browsing security concerns, and list password management best practices.
  • The benefits of cloud computing and an understanding of the cloud infrastructure layer, virtual machines, and the features of ticketing systems.

Syllabus

Module 0 : Welcome
Video: Course Introduction
Reading: General Information
Reading: Learning Objectives and Syllabus
Read more
Reading: Grading Scheme
Reading: How to Make the Most of this Course
Module 1: Introduction to Hardware and Operating Systems
Reading: Module Introduction and Learning Objectives
Video: Introduction to Computing Fundamentals
Video: Common Computing Devices and Platforms
Video: Identifying Hardware Components and Peripherals
Reading: Input, Output, and Display Devices
Video: Internal Computer Component
Reading: Additional Internal Computer Components
Video: Identifying Ports and Connectors
Activity: Identifying Devices and Connectors
Reading: Lesson Summary: Introduction to Computing Fundamentals and Hardware
Video: An introduction to Operating System
Video: Getting Started with Microsoft Window
Video: Features and Functions of an Operating System
Video: Managing File and Folders
Video: Using Your Windows Lab Workspace
Lab: Using File Explorer to Manage Files and Folders
Reading: Lesson Summary: Operating Systems
Practice Quiz: Module 1: Introduction to Hardware and Operating Systems
Reading: Glossary: Introduction to Hardware and Operating Systems
Graded Quiz: Module 1: Introduction to Hardware and Operating Systems
Module 2: Introduction to Software, Programming, and Databases
Video: Commercial and Open Source Software
Reading: Software Licenses
Video: Software Versions
Reading: File Formats and Productivity and Collaboration Software
Video: Software Installation Management
Video: Common Web Browser
Video: Browser Installs and Updates
Lab: Install, Update, and Remove Applications
Reading: Lesson Summary: Software Applications and Web Browsers
Video: Interpreted and Compiled Programming Languages
Reading: Scripting Languages
Video: Introduction to Programming Concepts
Video: Branching and Looping Programming Logic
Activity: Working with Programming Logic and Organizational Methods
Reading: Lesson Summary: Basics of Programming Languages
Video: Types of Data, Sources, and Uses
Video: Overview of Data Repositories
Video: Introduction to SQL and Relational Databases
Video: Database Management
Reading: Database Roles and Permissions and Backing Up Databases
Lab: Basic Database Operations
Reading: Lesson Summary: Database Fundamentals
Practice Quiz: Module 2: Introduction to Software, Programming, and Databases
Reading: Glossary: Introduction to Software, Programming, and Databases
Graded Quiz: Module 2: Introduction to Software, Programming, and Databases
Module 3: Introduction to Networking and Storage
Video: Computer Networks: Types and Topologies
Reading: Computer Networks: Cables
Video: Advantages and Disadvantages of Network Types
Reading: Computer Networks: Models, Standards, Protocols, and Ports
Video: Networking Hardware Devices
Video: Wired and Wireless Network Connections
Video: (Optional): Wired and Wireless SOHO Networks
Video: Network Settings in Windows
Lab: Exploring Windows Network Settings
Reading: Lesson Summary: Computer Networks
Video: Types of Local Storage Devices
Video: Types of Hosted Storage and Sharing
Video: Network Storage Types
Video: Troubleshooting Storage Issues
Lab: Disk Status and Repair Tools - Rhyme
Reading: Lesson Summary: Storage and Sharing
Practice Quiz: Module 3: Introduction to Networking and Storage
Reading: Glossary: Introduction to Networking and Storage
Graded Quiz: Module 3: Introduction to Networking and Storage
Module 4: Introduction to Cybersecurity Essentials
Video: Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability
Reading: Intellectual Property and Types of Confidential Information
Video: Threats and Breaches
Video: Phishing, Social Engineering, and Other Attacks
Video: Password Management Techniques
Video: Security Threats: Access Control, Authorization, and Authentication
Video: Authentication and SSO
Reading: Firewalls
Activity: Identifying Phishing Attempts
Reading: Lesson Summary: Common Security Threats and Security Best Practices
Video: Safe Browsing Practices: Application Ecosystem Security
Video: Safe Browsing Practices: Public Browsing Risks
Video: Safe Browsing Practices: Plug-ins, Extensions, and Toolbars
Activity: Managing Browser Plug-ins and Extensions
Video: Security Threats: Safe Browsing Techniques
Lab: Managing Browser Security and Privacy Settings
Video: Virtual Private Networks
Reading: Lesson Summary: Safe Browsing Practices
Practice Quiz: Module 4: Introduction to Cybersecurity Essentials
Reading: Glossary: Introduction to Cybersecurity Essentials
Graded Quiz: Module 4: Introduction to Cybersecurity Essentials
Module 5: Introduction to Cloud Computing
Video: Definition and Essential Characteristics of Cloud Computing
Reading: Cloud Adoption: No Longer a Choice
Video: Key Cloud Service Providers and Their Services
Video: Overview of Cloud Service Models
Video: Overview of Cloud Infrastructure
Video: Virtualization and Virtual Machines Explained
Reading: Types of Virtual Machines on Cloud
Video: Basics of Storage on Cloud
Activity: Identifying Storage Types
Reading: Lesson Summary: Introduction to Cloud Computing and Cloud Infrastructure
Video: Hybrid Multi-Cloud
Video: Containers
Video: Microservices
Video: Serverless Computing
Video: Cloud Native Applications
Video: DevOps on the Cloud
Reading: IoT, AI, Blockchain, and Analytics in the Cloud
Lab: Getting Started with Serverless
Reading: Lesson Summary: Emergent Trends and Practices in Cloud Computing
Practice Quiz: Module 5: Introduction to Cloud Computing
Lab: Glossary 5: Introduction to Cloud Computing
Graded Quiz: Module 5: Introduction to Cloud Computing
Module 6: Final Assessment
Reading: Module 6 Introduction and Learning Objectives
Final Exam: IT Fundamentals for Everyone
Module 7: (Bonus Lesson) Troubleshooting and Ticketing Systems
Video: Introduction to Troubleshooting
Video: Levels of Technical Support
Video: Service-Level Agreements (SLAs)
Video: What are Ticketing Systems?
Video: Features and Benefits of Ticketing Systems
Activity: Exploring the Lifecycle of a Ticket
Reading: Module Summary: Troubleshooting and Ticketing Systems
Reading: Glossary 6: IT Support and Operations
Practice Quiz: Troubleshooting and Ticketing Systems
Module 8: Course Wrap-up
Reading: Congratulations and Next Steps
Reading: Course Team and Acknowledgements
Reading: Copyrights and Trademarks
Course Rating and Feedback
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides a foundational understanding of IT concepts, which is essential for non-technical professionals to collaborate effectively with IT teams and make informed decisions
Includes hands-on labs, which allows learners to apply new skills in a practical setting, enhancing their understanding and retention of the material
Covers cybersecurity fundamentals, which is increasingly important for all professionals to understand in order to protect against data breaches and security threats
Explores cloud computing, which is a critical area of knowledge for professionals in various industries due to the increasing adoption of cloud-based solutions
Features a bonus lesson on troubleshooting and ticketing systems, which is helpful for understanding IT support processes and resolving technical issues efficiently
Requires learners to use Microsoft Windows, which may pose a barrier to learners who use other operating systems such as macOS or Linux

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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 Information Technology (IT) Fundamentals for Everyone with these activities:
Review Operating System Fundamentals
Solidify your understanding of operating system concepts before diving into the course modules. This will help you grasp the more advanced topics covered later.
Browse courses on Operating Systems
Show steps
  • Review the different types of operating systems.
  • Familiarize yourself with file management concepts.
  • Understand the basic functions of an OS.
Read 'CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ Study Guide: Exam FC0-U61'
Supplement your learning with a comprehensive study guide for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ certification. This book provides a structured overview of key IT concepts.
View Putting Knowledge to Work on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the relevant chapters for each module.
  • Complete the practice questions at the end of each chapter.
  • Review the exam tips and strategies.
Practice Identifying Hardware Components
Reinforce your knowledge of hardware components through repetitive identification exercises. This will improve your ability to quickly recognize and understand different hardware elements.
Browse courses on Hardware Components
Show steps
  • Create flashcards with images of different hardware components.
  • Use online quizzes to test your knowledge.
  • Disassemble and reassemble a computer (optional, if you have access to one).
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Read 'The Phoenix Project: A Novel About IT, DevOps, and Helping Your Business Win'
Gain a broader understanding of IT challenges and solutions in a business context. This book provides a narrative perspective on IT management and DevOps principles.
View The Phoenix Project: A Novel About IT, DevOps,... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book, paying attention to the challenges faced by the IT team.
  • Reflect on how the concepts in the book relate to the course material.
  • Discuss the book with other students or colleagues.
Create a Cybersecurity Awareness Guide
Solidify your understanding of cybersecurity principles by creating a guide for non-technical users. This will help you internalize the concepts and communicate them effectively.
Browse courses on Cybersecurity
Show steps
  • Research common cybersecurity threats and best practices.
  • Write clear and concise explanations of key concepts.
  • Design the guide with visuals and examples.
  • Share the guide with friends or family for feedback.
Set up a Home Network
Apply your knowledge of networking concepts by setting up a home network. This hands-on project will solidify your understanding of network topologies, devices, and configurations.
Browse courses on Computer Networks
Show steps
  • Plan your network topology and device placement.
  • Configure your router and network settings.
  • Connect your devices to the network.
  • Troubleshoot any connectivity issues.

Career center

Learners who complete Information Technology (IT) Fundamentals for Everyone will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Project Manager
A project manager often leads teams that include IT professionals, and this course helps build a foundation for this collaboration. A project manager needs to understand the basics of hardware, operating systems, software, programming, and databases, all covered in this course, to effectively communicate with technical teams. This course also explores networking, storage, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, allowing a project manager to understand the impact of each on projects and make informed decisions. The modules on software installation, database operations, and network settings are especially relevant for a project manager leading IT projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Business Analyst
A business analyst bridges the gap between business needs and technology solutions, and this course helps build essential skills for such a role. A business analyst needs a strong understanding of IT infrastructure, software, and data management, all covered in this course. The course introduces key concepts like hardware, operating systems, programming, and databases, essential for a business analyst to effectively gather requirements and propose solutions. By learning about networking, storage, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, a business analyst can better communicate with technical teams. Modules on software applications, database fundamentals, and cloud computing are particularly helpful for a business analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Sales Engineer
A sales engineer often works with clients to understand their technical needs and demonstrate how products and services meet those needs. This course helps a sales engineer build an understanding of the foundational IT concepts often discussed with clients. A sales engineer benefits from knowing about hardware, software, and networking, as well as cybersecurity and cloud computing, all of which are covered in this course. By understanding these topics, a sales engineer can better communicate with clients and tailor their pitches to meet customer requirements. The modules on software applications and cloud computing are particularly relevant for a sales engineer in a tech-focused role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Engineer
Technology Consultant
A technology consultant advises clients on how to best use technology to achieve their business goals. This course helps the technology consultant by introducing them to key components of IT infrastructure. A technology consultant needs to have a broad understanding of hardware, operating systems, and software, and this course provides an introduction to them. This course also discusses networking, storage, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, all of which are important for a technology consultant to understand. A technology consultant may find this course useful in understanding the foundational components of IT.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technology Consultant
Software Trainer
A software trainer delivers instruction to users on how to use software applications. A software trainer in this role can benefit from the fundamental knowledge of software, programming, and databases provided in this course. The course covers a variety of software concepts, including installation, updates, and common web browsers which will help a software trainer understand their subject matter more deeply. This course also introduces concepts of programming and databases which can be useful for better understanding of the software they teach. This course is helpful for a software trainer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Trainer
Technical Writer
A technical writer creates documentation for technical products. This course helps build an understanding of the IT landscape which a technical writer would describe for their audience. A technical writer needs to grasp the fundamentals of hardware, systems, and software, which is covered in this course. Modules on software installation, database operations, and network settings provides a practical foundation in subjects that a technical writer is likely to encounter. Cybersecurity concepts, and cloud computing are also discussed, which are often topics of technical documentation. This course may be useful for a technical writer who wishes to improve their knowledge base.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Data Analyst
A data analyst interprets and analyzes data to provide insights, and this course helps a data analyst build crucial foundation knowledge. Although this course does not focus on data analytics, a data analyst can benefit from understanding database fundamentals and data storage, both covered in detail here. Understanding operating systems, software, and computer networks is useful for a data analyst. Furthermore, the course material on cloud computing and cybersecurity can be relevant to how a data analyst can do their job. This course may be helpful, especially in a technical role where data analysts work closely with IT infrastructure.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
IT Support Specialist
An IT support specialist provides technical assistance to users, and this course may be useful in learning the basics. An IT support specialist needs a foundation in operating systems, hardware, and software, covered extensively in this course. The course covers troubleshooting and ticketing systems providing direct insight into the systems that an IT support specialist uses. Furthermore, this course covers core concepts of networks and cybersecurity, which an IT support specialist is likely to encounter. The hands-on labs in this course provide useful practice. This course may be helpful in preparing a candidate for an entry-level IT support specialist role.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Support Specialist
Technical Recruiter
A technical recruiter specializes in recruiting professionals for roles in technology, and this course builds foundational knowledge that can be valuable to this role. A technical recruiter needs to understand the basics of IT, including hardware, software, and networking, all of which are introduced in this course. The technical recruiter will benefit from an overview of programming, databases, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. This course may be helpful for a technical recruiter to better understand the needs of the roles they recruit for, which will help them better communicate with their clients and candidates.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Recruiter
IT Auditor
An IT auditor evaluates an organization's IT systems and processes for risk and compliance. This course may be useful for a candidate looking to become an IT auditor. An IT auditor benefits from a comprehensive understanding of hardware and software, which this course provides through its overview. The course discusses networking and storage, in addition to core concepts of cybersecurity which is often central to the work of an IT auditor. This course also explores cloud computing, which will be useful for IT auditors. This course could be useful in building foundational knowledge for an IT auditor.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Auditor
Digital Marketing Specialist
A digital marketing specialist manages online marketing campaigns and strategies for organizations. This course builds an understanding of the technical concepts that underlie digital marketing. A digital marketing specialist can benefit from a foundational understanding of IT, including hardware, software, and networking. The course also introduces cloud computing, which is helpful in understanding the technical landscape that digital marketing operates in. This course is useful for a digital marketing specialist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Digital Marketing Specialist
Operations Manager
An operations manager works to improve processes and efficiency within business departments, and this course helps build skills that are extremely valuable in an increasingly digital world. The operations manager benefits by understanding the IT systems that are relied upon by an organization, which this course covers. The course introduces hardware, software, databases, and computer networking, providing an overview of how IT infrastructure works. The course introduces cloud computing and cybersecurity, which helps an operations manager understand the risks associated with technology. This course may be useful to an operations manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager
Change Management Specialist
A change management specialist helps organizations adapt to change, including implementing new technology. This course focuses on the fundamentals of IT, which may be useful for a change management specialist. A change management specialist can benefit from understanding the basics of hardware, software, and computer networking which is introduced here. The course also explores cloud computing and cybersecurity which are often involved with technology changes. This course may be useful for a change management specialist, especially those dealing with technology changes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Change Management Specialist
Marketing Manager
A marketing manager is responsible for planning and overseeing marketing campaigns. This course could be helpful in understanding the technology that increasingly influences marketing. A marketing manager can benefit from an understanding of computer networks, storage, and cloud computing, all of which are covered in this course. This course also covers key concepts from software and database management, all of which can be relevant for marketing. This course may be useful for a marketing manager, especially in digital roles.
See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager
Human Resources Generalist
A human resources generalist supports employees and ensures compliance with company policies. This course may be useful for a human resources professional wishing to understand IT. A human resources generalist can benefit from the basic IT knowledge provided by this course, especially in today's work environment, which is increasingly dependent on technology. The course covers essential topics such as operating systems, software, and cybersecurity. The module on ticketing systems can be particularly relevant for a human resources professional who handles technology related support or requests. A human resources professional might take this course to better understand requests for technology support.
See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Generalist

Reading list

We've selected two 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 Information Technology (IT) Fundamentals for Everyone.
Cover image
Putting Knowledge to Work
Save
This study guide is specifically designed to prepare individuals for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ certification exam. It covers a broad range of IT topics, including hardware, software, networking, security, and cloud computing. serves as a valuable reference tool for reinforcing the concepts covered in the course. It also provides practice questions and exam tips to help students assess their knowledge and prepare for the final assessment.
Putting Knowledge to Work
Paperback
Check
Putting Knowledge to Work
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Phoenix Project
Save
Provides a practical and engaging introduction to IT management principles. It illustrates how IT departments can overcome common challenges and contribute to business success. While not a technical manual, it offers valuable insights into the importance of IT alignment with business goals, making it a useful supplement to the course material. It is particularly helpful for understanding the context and real-world applications of the IT concepts covered.
The Phoenix Project: A Novel About IT, DevOps, and...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Effort
2 to 3 hours per week for 6 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
IBM
Session
December 9, 2024 - June 30, 2025
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Provides a foundational understanding of IT concepts, which is essential for non-technical professionals to collaborate effectively with IT teams and make informed decisions
Includes hands-on labs, which allows learners to apply new skills in a practical setting, enhancing their understanding and retention of the material
Covers cybersecurity fundamentals, which is increasingly important for all professionals to understand in order to protect against data breaches and security threats
Explores cloud computing, which is a critical area of knowledge for professionals in various industries due to the increasing adoption of cloud-based solutions
Features a bonus lesson on troubleshooting and ticketing systems, which is helpful for understanding IT support processes and resolving technical issues efficiently
Requires learners to use Microsoft Windows, which may pose a barrier to learners who use other operating systems such as macOS or Linux
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