Hardware and Operating Systems from edX

If you’re ready to enter the world of Information Technology (IT), you need job-ready skills. Understanding the fundamentals of computer hardware and operating systems is critical to any technology related job role like Technical Support or Software Development.

This course introduces you to the brain of a computer—its operating system software, where you’ll become familiar with the fundamentals of the Microsoft Windows operating system. You’ll gain skills to describe internal key hardware computer components, including motherboard components, central processing unit (CPU) memory, hard drives, expansion slots, and more.

This course will equip you with the knowledge to identify the various hardware connections, including categories of ports, add-on peripherals such as mice, and other hardware components. And you’ll learn the basics, including standard workstation setup, commonly used operating system settings, screen capture commands, and best-in-class troubleshooting practices.

This course provides hands-on experience with a real-world inspired project to add to your portfolio, demonstrating your hardware and operating systems knowledge with troubleshooting malfunctioning computer systems.

This course is for anyone new to IT and computer hardware or who wants to start an IT support-related profession as a Help Desk Support Specialist, IT Support Specialist, Virtual Customer Service Agent, or Technical Support Representative. And those interested in showcasing their analytical and evaluation skills through hands-on practice labs to become job-ready with real-world skills.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Demonstrate an understanding of operating systems fundamentals.
Recognize desktop and laptop hardware components and devices.

Identify commonly used interfaces and peripherals.
Describe workstation setup practices, operating system settings, and good troubleshooting practices.

Demonstrate an understanding of operating systems fundamentals.
Recognize desktop and laptop hardware components and devices.
Identify commonly used interfaces and peripherals.
Describe workstation setup practices, operating system settings, and good troubleshooting practices.

Syllabus

Module 1: Computing Fundamentals and Operating Systems

Introduction to Computer Fundamentals

An Introduction to Operating systems

Features and Functions of an Operating system Part 1, Part 2

Common Computing Devices and Platforms

Activity: Operating System Terminology

Module 2: Hardware and Components

Identifying Hardware Components and Peripherals

Printers and Scanners

Optical Drives and External Storage

Module 3: Interfaces, Peripherals, and Connectors

Identifying Ports and Connectors

Identifying Graphic Devices

Identifying Audio Connectors

Wired and Wireless Connections

Peripheral and Printer Connections

Installation Types

Activity: Identifying Devices and Connectors

Module 4: Internal Computer Components

Internal Computer Components

Data Processing and Storage

Internal Storage

Display Cards and Sound Cards

Network Interface Cards

Cooling Fans

Activity: Identifying Internal Computer Components

Module 5: Workstation Evaluation, Setup, and Troubleshooting

Workstation Evaluation and Setup

Windows Operating System Configuration Part 1, Part 2

Activity: Setting Up Workstations and Changing Settings

Managing File and Folders

Activity: Navigating Files and Folders

Screen Capture and Tools

Introduction to Troubleshooting

Introduction to Business Continuity Principles

Module 6: Final Quiz and Hands-on Exercise: Linux Terminal

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Suitable for individuals starting their journey into the IT field, providing foundational knowledge in computer hardware and operating systems

Designed for those aiming to pursue support-related roles in IT, such as Help Desk Support Specialist, IT Support Specialist, Virtual Customer Service Agent, or Technical Support Representative

Provides hands-on experience through a project-based approach, allowing learners to demonstrate their understanding of hardware and operating systems by troubleshooting issues in computer systems

Well-structured with comprehensive coverage of topics related to computer hardware, operating systems, peripherals, and troubleshooting

Taught by Skills Network, who specialize in providing industry-relevant IT training

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 Hardware and Operating Systems with these activities:

Practice Basic Troubleshooting Skills

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Refresh your basic troubleshooting skills to prepare for the course's focus on troubleshooting hardware and operating systems.

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Review common troubleshooting techniques, such as checking connections, restarting devices, and running diagnostics.
Practice applying these techniques to simple troubleshooting scenarios.

Review Fundamentals of Operating Systems

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Review the foundational principles of operating systems to refresh your memory before diving into the course.

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Read through your old notes or textbooks on operating systems.
Take practice quizzes or answer review questions to test your knowledge.

Organize and Review Course Materials

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Stay organized by compiling and reviewing course materials, such as lecture notes, assignments, and quizzes, to reinforce your understanding.

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Create a system for organizing your notes, assignments, and other materials.
Regularly review your materials to reinforce your understanding and identify areas where you need further study.

Six other activities

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Practice Identifying Hardware Components

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Reinforce your understanding of hardware components by completing practice drills and exercises.

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Use online quizzes or flashcards to test your knowledge of different hardware components.
Disassemble and reassemble a computer to gain hands-on experience.

Join a Study Group for Hardware and Operating Systems

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Engage in collaborative learning by joining a study group where you can discuss concepts, share knowledge, and work on projects together.

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Find or create a study group with fellow students taking the same course.
Meet regularly to discuss lecture material, ask questions, and work on assignments.

Create a Diagram of Computer Architecture

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Solidify your understanding of computer architecture by creating a visual representation of its components and their relationships.

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Identify the main components of a computer system, including the CPU, memory, storage, and input/output devices.
Draw a diagram that shows the connections and interactions between these components.
Label each component and explain its function.

Follow Tutorials on Troubleshooting Computer Issues

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Enhance your troubleshooting skills by following guided tutorials that cover common computer issues and their solutions.

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Search for online tutorials or courses on computer troubleshooting.
Follow the instructions provided in the tutorials to learn how to diagnose and fix various hardware and software problems.
Practice applying the techniques you learn to real-world scenarios.

Build a Custom Computer

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Put your knowledge of hardware components and operating systems into practice by building a custom computer from scratch.

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Research and select the components for your computer, including the CPU, motherboard, RAM, storage, and graphics card.
Purchase the components and assemble the computer.
Install the operating system and necessary drivers.
Configure the BIOS and optimize the system for performance.

Create a Troubleshooting Guide for Common Computer Issues

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Demonstrate your understanding of troubleshooting by creating a comprehensive guide that outlines the steps to resolve common computer issues.

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Identify the most common computer issues that users face.
Research and compile the necessary steps to troubleshoot and resolve each issue.
Organize the information into a clear and concise guide.

Career center

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

Desktop Support Technician

Desktop Support Technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing computer systems and networks for an organization. By taking the Hardware and Operating Systems course, you will learn the fundamentals of operating systems and hardware components, preparing you for the technical aspects of this role. The course also includes hands-on experience with troubleshooting malfunctioning computer systems, which is a crucial skill for Desktop Support Technicians.

See salaries and explore the career path for Desktop Support Technician

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Systems Analysts design, implement, and maintain computer systems for organizations. The Hardware and Operating Systems course aligns well with this role as it provides a comprehensive foundation in operating systems, hardware components, and troubleshooting practices. This knowledge is essential for Computer Systems Analysts to effectively analyze and improve computer systems.

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Network Administrator

Network Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining computer networks. The Hardware and Operating Systems course helps establish a foundation for this role by introducing the fundamentals of operating systems and hardware components. Understanding these concepts is crucial for Network Administrators to effectively manage and troubleshoot network systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

IT Support Specialist

IT Support Specialists provide technical support to users within an organization. The Hardware and Operating Systems course aligns well with this role as it covers essential concepts such as operating systems, hardware components, troubleshooting, and workstation setup. This knowledge is vital for IT Support Specialists to effectively resolve technical issues and support users.

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Computer Hardware Engineer

Computer Hardware Engineers design, develop, and test computer hardware components. The Hardware and Operating Systems course provides a solid foundation for this role by introducing the key hardware components of a computer system. Understanding these components is crucial for Computer Hardware Engineers to effectively design and develop reliable hardware systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Hardware Engineer

Software Developer

Software Developers design, develop, and test software applications. While the Hardware and Operating Systems course does not directly teach software development, it provides a strong foundation in operating systems and hardware components. This knowledge is essential for Software Developers to understand the underlying systems that their software applications will run on.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation and instructions for technical products and services. The Hardware and Operating Systems course can be beneficial for Technical Writers who need to understand the technical aspects of computer systems to effectively communicate complex information to users.

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Computer Technician

Computer Technicians install, maintain, and repair computers and related equipment. The Hardware and Operating Systems course aligns well with this role by providing a comprehensive overview of operating systems, hardware components, and troubleshooting techniques. This knowledge is essential for Computer Technicians to effectively diagnose and resolve technical issues.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Technician

Data Center Technician

Data Center Technicians maintain and operate computer systems and equipment in data centers. The Hardware and Operating Systems course provides a foundation for this role by introducing the key hardware components of a computer system and the fundamentals of operating systems. This knowledge is crucial for Data Center Technicians to effectively manage and troubleshoot data center systems.

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IT Auditor

IT Auditors evaluate and assess the security and effectiveness of information systems. The Hardware and Operating Systems course can be beneficial for IT Auditors who need to understand the technical aspects of computer systems to effectively conduct audits and make recommendations for improvement.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Auditor

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access and cyberattacks. The Hardware and Operating Systems course provides a foundation for this role by introducing the fundamentals of operating systems and hardware components. Understanding these concepts is crucial for Information Security Analysts to effectively identify and mitigate security risks.

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Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers write and maintain computer programs. While the Hardware and Operating Systems course does not directly teach programming, it provides a strong foundation in operating systems and hardware components. This knowledge is essential for Computer Programmers to understand the underlying systems that their programs will run on.

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Database Administrator

Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. The Hardware and Operating Systems course can be beneficial for Database Administrators who need to understand the technical aspects of computer systems to effectively manage and optimize databases.

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Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites and web applications. While the Hardware and Operating Systems course does not directly teach web development, it provides a foundation in operating systems and hardware components. This knowledge is essential for Web Developers to understand the underlying systems that their websites and web applications will run on.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Systems Administrator

Systems Administrators manage and maintain computer systems and networks. The Hardware and Operating Systems course provides a solid foundation for this role by introducing the fundamentals of operating systems, hardware components, and troubleshooting practices. This knowledge is crucial for Systems Administrators to effectively manage and maintain complex IT systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator