Hardware and Operating Systems (edX)

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.

This course is part of the Information Technology (IT) Support PC Professional Certificate.

What you'll learn

- 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