Foundations of IT and Core Hardware Components

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Provider

Coursera
Pricing

Paid Course
Languages

English
Certificate

Paid Certificate Available
Duration & workload

9 hours 26 minutes
Sessions

On-Demand
Subtitles

English

Found in

Part of

TOTAL CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) v15

Overview

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This course features Coursera Coach! A smarter way to learn with interactive, real-time conversations that help you test your knowledge, challenge assumptions, and deepen your understanding as you progress through the course. Embark on a comprehensive journey through the world of IT and core hardware components in this foundational course. You will gain an in-depth understanding of key IT concepts and the critical hardware components that power modern computers. By the end of the course, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue an entry-level career in IT, starting with the renowned CompTIA A+ certification. The course begins with a promotional overview of the CompTIA A+ certification, followed by an introduction to the exam's structure. From there, you’ll dive into various components, including CPUs, RAM, BIOS/UEFI, and motherboards. Each section is designed to walk you through critical topics, such as choosing the right hardware, installation techniques, and troubleshooting strategies. You'll also explore real-world scenarios with practical advice on system diagnostics and repairs, ensuring you're prepared for the certification exams and your future IT career. This course is ideal for individuals aiming to enter IT and those looking to strengthen their foundational knowledge. No prior experience is required, but a basic understanding of computers will be helpful. The course is suitable for beginners looking to obtain the CompTIA A+ certification. By the end of the course, you will be able to identify and describe the core components of a computer, install and troubleshoot hardware components, explain the purpose of various technologies like CPUs and RAM, and confidently prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification exams.

Syllabus

All About the CompTIA A+

In this module, we will introduce you to the CompTIA A+ certification and its role as a foundational stepping stone into the IT industry. You’ll gain clarity on what the certification entails, its value in the job market, and the structure of the Core 1 and Core 2 exams. We’ll also walk you through exam logistics and provide proven study strategies to set you up for success.

Safety and Professionalism

In this module, we will cover the key tools every technician needs and introduce you to the essential concepts of troubleshooting and professionalism in IT. You’ll learn how to select and use the proper tools, follow a systematic troubleshooting process, and maintain a safe working environment to ensure efficiency and safety in the workplace.

Introduction to Computers and Operating Systems

In this module, we will take a deep dive into the primary hardware components of a computer system. From understanding the basic structure of a PC to exploring how each component works together with the operating system, this module will lay the foundation for your journey into IT and hardware management.

CPUs

In this module, we will explore the central role of the CPU in a computer system, covering its functionality and performance characteristics. You’ll also learn about key distinctions like 32-bit vs. 64-bit computing, how to choose the right CPU for your needs, and the latest trends in processor technology.

In this module, we will dive into the world of RAM (Random Access Memory), from understanding its different technologies to troubleshooting common RAM-related problems. You’ll also learn how to maximize your system’s performance by selecting and installing the correct type and amount of RAM.

BIOS and UEFI

In this module, we will introduce you to the fundamental concepts of BIOS and UEFI, and their importance in the computer's boot process. You’ll also learn how to navigate system setup programs and troubleshoot common BIOS and firmware issues, ensuring your computer operates efficiently and effectively.

Motherboards

In this module, we will explore the motherboard, the backbone of every computer system. You will gain insight into the different motherboard form factors, the role of the chipset, and best practices for selecting and installing the right motherboard for your system's specific needs.

Power Supplies

In this module, we will focus on the power supply unit (PSU), a crucial component for powering your computer. You’ll learn how to select the right PSU based on your system’s power requirements, explore different cooling techniques, and understand how to troubleshoot power-related issues to maintain stable performance.

Mass Storage Technologies

In this module, we will dive into mass storage technologies such as HDDs, SSDs, and SCSI devices. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of how these storage systems function, the differences between them, and how to configure your system’s boot settings to ensure efficient and reliable data storage.

Implementing Mass Storage

In this module, we will dive into the various ways to implement mass storage solutions, focusing on RAID configurations, both hardware and software-based. You’ll learn how to enhance performance and ensure data redundancy using RAID, explore encryption strategies to protect sensitive data, and master troubleshooting techniques to resolve mass storage issues and recover lost data effectively.