Foundations of IT Systems and Operating Systems

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Provider

Coursera
Pricing

Paid Course
Languages

English
Certificate

Paid Certificate Available
Duration & workload

11 hours 56 minutes
Sessions

On-Demand
Subtitles

English

Found in

Part of

TOTAL: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202) 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. In this comprehensive course, you'll build a strong foundation in IT systems and operating systems, starting with the basics of computer hardware and moving on to mastering key concepts like operating systems, file systems, storage technologies, and system security. You will also gain a clear understanding of IT certifications, especially CompTIA A+, and learn how these skills can help you start a successful IT career. The course also includes practical tips for maintaining and troubleshooting operating systems across multiple platforms such as Windows, macOS, and Linux. The journey begins with an introduction to CompTIA A+ certification, and you’ll explore all the major domains of the Core 1 and Core 2 exams. You'll dive into safety practices, professionalism, and communication skills essential for IT technicians. As you progress, you'll gain hands-on experience with different operating systems, how to install and upgrade them, and the ins and outs of mass storage technologies. You'll also learn how to effectively deal with customers, use critical system tools, and manage permissions for different users. This course is ideal for aspiring IT professionals and anyone looking to understand the inner workings of computers and operating systems. No prior technical experience is required, although familiarity with basic computing concepts can be helpful. The course offers both theory and practical exercises, making it suitable for beginners looking to start a career in IT or those wishing to deepen their existing knowledge. By the end of the course, you will be able to confidently handle tasks such as managing operating systems, implementing mass storage, dealing with customer issues, and navigating key IT certification exams. You'll also understand the core concepts of Windows, macOS, and Linux and how to maintain and troubleshoot them effectively.

Syllabus

All About the CompTIA A+

In this module, we will introduce you to the world of CompTIA A+ certification, one of the most recognized IT credentials globally. You will gain insights into what’s covered on the Core 1 and Core 2 exams and learn the steps to take and the resources available for success. Additionally, we’ll discuss effective exam preparation strategies to help you succeed on your certification journey.

Safety and Professionalism

In this module, we will focus on the crucial soft skills and safety measures required in the IT industry. You will learn how to communicate effectively with clients, handle difficult customer situations, and ensure physical safety while working with hardware. This section equips you with the professionalism needed to thrive in a technical role while maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.

Introduction to Computers and Operating Systems

In this module, we will explore the fundamentals of operating systems and how they enable users to interact with computer hardware. You will be introduced to different operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, and learn key system tools and features. This section also highlights essential concepts like user management and security settings within each OS.

Power Supplies

In this module, we will focus on the vital role power supplies play in computer systems. You will learn how to protect systems from power fluctuations and ensure the longevity of components through power protection tools. Additionally, we’ll discuss the importance of cooling systems to prevent overheating and maintain system stability under heavy workloads.

Mass Storage Technologies

In this module, we will dive into the world of mass storage, starting with the importance of boot order in ensuring proper system startup. You will learn how to configure and manage storage devices, troubleshoot common issues, and understand the various types of storage systems in use. This section is key to understanding how systems access data and operate efficiently.

Implementing Mass Storage

In this module, we will cover the process of implementing mass storage through partitioning, file systems, and disk management. You will learn the differences between MBR and GPT partitioning and explore the benefits of dynamic disks and RAID arrays. This section will also introduce you to essential file systems like NTFS, FAT, and ext3, and their applications in various environments.

Essential Peripherals

In this module, we will explore the essential peripherals that enhance a computer system’s functionality. You will learn the various USB standards, their connectors, and how to set up and troubleshoot common devices like webcams. Additionally, this section will cover the integration of video conferencing tools to support remote and hybrid work environments.

Installling and Upgrading Operating Systems

In this module, we will guide you through the installation and upgrade processes for Windows, Linux, and macOS operating systems. You will learn how to choose the correct edition, create bootable installation media, and perform system upgrades. Additionally, we will cover critical post-installation tasks to ensure your system is ready for optimal performance.

Working with Operating Systems

In this module, we will introduce you to powerful operating system tools that help manage and optimize system performance. You will learn to navigate and use essential tools such as Task Manager, Control Panel, and MMC in Windows. Additionally, we’ll explore macOS tools, providing you with a comprehensive skill set for managing different operating systems.

Users, Groups, and Permissions

In this module, we will dive into user and group management, focusing on security and access control. You will learn how to configure user accounts, set permissions in Windows, and work with Linux/macOS user management systems. This section will also introduce security policies and best practices to control access to files and resources within your system.

Maintaining and Optimizing Operating Systems

In this module, we will focus on maintaining and optimizing operating systems for peak performance. You will learn the best practices for software updates and system maintenance in Windows, macOS, and Linux. Additionally, this section covers essential backup strategies to protect user data and ensure long-term system stability.