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Foundations of IT Systems and Operating Systems

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Foundations of IT Systems and Operating Systems

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

1 week to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

1 week to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Master key concepts in IT systems and operating systems for career readiness.

  • Understand and implement mass storage solutions, file systems, and partitioning.

  • Develop communication and professionalism skills for handling customer issues.

  • Gain the ability to install, upgrade, and maintain various operating systems.

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Recently updated!

February 2026

Assessments

11 assignments

Taught in English

Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the TOTAL: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202) v15 Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
  • Learn new concepts from industry experts
  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
  • Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
  • Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 11 modules in this course

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.

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.

What's included

7 videos2 readings

7 videosTotal 26 minutes
  • Introduction to Specialization1 minute
  • Introduction to A+3 minutes
  • What is the CompTIA A+?1 minute
  • Why Get CompTIA A+ Certified?3 minutes
  • How to Take the A+ Exam5 minutes
  • What's on the CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202) Exam?7 minutes
  • How to Pass the CompTIA A+ Exams7 minutes
2 readingsTotal 20 minutes
  • Introduction to the Course 'Foundations of IT Systems and Operating Systems'10 minutes
  • Full Specialization Resource10 minutes

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.

What's included

4 videos

4 videosTotal 24 minutes
  • Professional Communication, Part I6 minutes
  • Professional Communication, Part II7 minutes
  • Dealing with Difficult Customers4 minutes
  • Physical Safety7 minutes

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.

What's included

9 videos1 assignment

9 videosTotal 71 minutes
  • Common Safety Procedures6 minutes
  • What Is an Operating System?9 minutes
  • Users and Super Users5 minutes
  • Why Windows?7 minutes
  • Touring Windows 10 and 117 minutes
  • Touring the macOS, Part 110 minutes
  • Touring the macOS, Part II7 minutes
  • Touring the macOS, Part III13 minutes
  • Touring Linux8 minutes
1 assignmentTotal 15 minutes
  • Introduction to Computers and Operating Systems - Assessment15 minutes

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.

What's included

2 videos1 assignment

2 videosTotal 16 minutes
  • Power Protection9 minutes
  • Cooling Your System7 minutes
1 assignmentTotal 15 minutes
  • Power Supplies - Assessment15 minutes

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.

What's included

1 video1 assignment

1 videoTotal 7 minutes
  • Boot Order7 minutes
1 assignmentTotal 15 minutes
  • Mass Storage Technologies - Assessment15 minutes

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.

What's included

12 videos1 assignment

12 videosTotal 99 minutes
  • Understanding Partitioning4 minutes
  • MBR Partitioning12 minutes
  • GPT Partitioning8 minutes
  • Understanding File Systems11 minutes
  • Popular File Systems9 minutes
  • Formatting in Action11 minutes
  • Dynamic Disks8 minutes
  • New Installation - First Drive5 minutes
  • Hardware RAID7 minutes
  • Software RAID in Storage Spaces9 minutes
  • Encrypting Mass Storage9 minutes
  • Maintaining Storage Disks6 minutes
1 assignmentTotal 15 minutes
  • Implementing Mass Storage - Assessment15 minutes

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.

What's included

2 videos1 assignment

2 videosTotal 14 minutes
  • Understanding USB11 minutes
  • Webcams and Videoconferencing4 minutes
1 assignmentTotal 15 minutes
  • Essential Peripherals - Assessment15 minutes

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.

What's included

7 videos1 assignment

7 videosTotal 69 minutes
  • Windows 11 Editions and Features12 minutes
  • Boot from Everything13 minutes
  • Installing and Upgrading Windows8 minutes
  • Post-Installation Tasks11 minutes
  • Linux Features and Tools11 minutes
  • Installing and Upgrading Linux9 minutes
  • Upgrading macOS3 minutes
1 assignmentTotal 15 minutes
  • Installling and Upgrading Operating Systems - Assessment15 minutes

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.

What's included

6 videos1 assignment

6 videosTotal 45 minutes
  • The Task Manager7 minutes
  • The Control Panel8 minutes
  • Windows Settings6 minutes
  • MMC and Additional Tools7 minutes
  • What Is the Registry?10 minutes
  • macOS Core Tools7 minutes
1 assignmentTotal 15 minutes
  • Working with Operating Systems - Assessment15 minutes

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.

What's included

7 videos1 assignment

7 videosTotal 66 minutes
  • Introduction to Users and Groups6 minutes
  • Managing Users and Groups12 minutes
  • NTFS Permissions8 minutes
  • Linux and macOS Permissions5 minutes
  • File Explorer13 minutes
  • Sharing Resources10 minutes
  • Security Policies11 minutes
1 assignmentTotal 15 minutes
  • Users, Groups, and Permissions - Assessment15 minutes

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.

What's included

6 videos1 reading3 assignments

6 videosTotal 41 minutes
  • Maintaining Windows5 minutes
  • Maintaining macOS8 minutes
  • Maintaining Linux6 minutes
  • Working with Applications10 minutes
  • Backing Up Your Data in Windows9 minutes
  • Backing Up Your Data in Linux and macOS3 minutes
1 readingTotal 10 minutes
  • Conclusion to the Course 'Foundations of IT Systems and Operating Systems'10 minutes
3 assignmentsTotal 90 minutes
  • Full Course Practice Assessment15 minutes
  • Maintaining and Optimizing Operating Systems - Assessment15 minutes
  • Full Course Assessment60 minutes

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Frequently asked questions

Foundations of IT Systems and Operating Systems provides an introduction to the critical elements of IT, including system hardware, operating systems (such as Windows, macOS, and Linux), and essential troubleshooting techniques. This course is highly relevant because it serves as the foundation for a career in IT support, helping individuals gain the skills needed to effectively manage systems, perform installations, and address common technical problems. It equips learners with the knowledge to navigate key IT functions, an essential step in any IT career.

This course covers the fundamentals of IT systems and the various operating systems used across different platforms. It focuses on areas such as understanding operating systems, user management, system configurations, and essential troubleshooting techniques. Key topics also include power supplies, mass storage technologies, installation and upgrades of operating systems, and essential peripheral devices. The course is designed to give learners the practical knowledge needed to maintain and optimize operating systems in both personal and professional environments.

After completing the Foundations of IT Systems and Operating Systems course, you will be able to install, configure, and maintain multiple operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux. You will gain the skills to troubleshoot common IT issues, manage system resources, and perform necessary updates. Additionally, you will understand how to handle storage configurations, understand power supply issues, and work with various peripheral devices, preparing you for entry-level IT support roles.

This course is designed for beginners, so no prior technical experience is required. However, having a basic understanding of computer use and general technical concepts (such as how to use applications, files, and hardware) will help you grasp the material more quickly. If you are new to IT, the course will guide you through all essential concepts from the ground up.

This course is perfect for individuals who are starting their IT career or those who want to solidify their foundational knowledge in operating systems and IT systems management. It’s especially useful for those aspiring to become IT support technicians, system administrators, or individuals seeking to expand their technical skills in a professional setting. If you're looking to prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification or simply want to improve your IT knowledge, this course is a great choice.

The Foundations of IT Systems and Operating Systems course contains approximately 12 hours of video content. The time it takes to complete will depend on your pace, but typically, learners can expect to finish the course in a few weeks if dedicating several hours a week to the material.

Yes, you can preview the first video and view the syllabus before you enroll. You must purchase the course to access content not included in the preview.

If you decide to enroll in the course before the session start date, you will have access to all of the lecture videos and readings for the course. You’ll be able to submit assignments once the session starts.

Once you enroll and your session begins, you will have access to all videos and other resources, including reading items and the course discussion forum. You’ll be able to view and submit practice assessments, and complete required graded assignments to earn a grade and a Course Certificate.

If you complete the course successfully, your electronic Course Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Course Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.

This course is currently available only to learners who have paid or received financial aid, when available.

Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.

Financial aid available,