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Computer Fundamentals Courses Online

Study computer fundamentals for basic knowledge of computing. Learn about hardware, software, and basic troubleshooting techniques.

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Explore the Computer Fundamentals Course Catalog

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    M

    Microsoft

    Introduction to Computers

    Skills you'll gain: Business Software, Computer Hardware, Generative AI, Operating Systems, Data Storage Technologies, Computer Systems, Data Maintenance, Enterprise Security, System Software, Information Technology, Computer Architecture, Data Storage, System Configuration, Technical Support and Services, Microsoft Windows, Servers, Cybersecurity

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    948 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    I

    IBM

    Information Technology (IT) Fundamentals for Everyone

    Skills you'll gain: Information Technology, Computer Hardware, Cloud Computing, Network Troubleshooting, Software Installation, Technical Support and Services, Cybersecurity, Hardware Troubleshooting, Data Storage, Database Software, Operating Systems, Computer Networking, IT Infrastructure, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Project Management

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    252 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    G

    Google

    Technical Support Fundamentals

    Skills you'll gain: Computer Hardware, Technical Support, Software Installation, Technical Documentation, Hardware Troubleshooting, Customer Support, Computer Networking, System Software, Technical Communication, Computer Literacy, Linux, Microsoft Windows

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    162K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of California, Irvine

    Computer Hardware and Software

    Skills you'll gain: Network Security, Computer Hardware, Hardware Architecture, Computer Systems, TCP/IP, Information Technology, General Networking, Computer Literacy, Network Protocols, Operating Systems, System Configuration, Software Installation, Computer Networking, File Systems

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    216 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Toronto

    Learn to Program: The Fundamentals

    Skills you'll gain: Programming Principles, Debugging, Software Documentation, Python Programming, Computer Programming, Program Development, Integrated Development Environments, Data Structures, File Management

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6.7K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Preview
    Preview
    A

    Arm

    Computer Architecture Essentials on Arm

    Skills you'll gain: Microarchitecture, Computer Architecture, Simulation and Simulation Software, Hardware Design, Hardware Architecture, Electronics Engineering, Electronic Hardware, Electronics, Computer Hardware, Performance Tuning

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    M

    Meta

    Programming Fundamentals in Swift

    Skills you'll gain: Swift Programming, Apple Xcode, iOS Development, Apple iOS, Data Structures, Programming Principles, Application Development, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Computer Programming, Web Development

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    269 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Colorado System

    Fundamentals of Computer Network Security

    Skills you'll gain: Cryptography, Public Key Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Application Security, Data Security, Firewall, Cyber Attacks, Data Encryption Standard, Penetration Testing, Network Security, Information Assurance, Encryption, Risk Management Framework, Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Vulnerability Scanning, Information Systems Security, Secure Coding, Security Controls, Exploitation techniques

    4
    Rating, 4 out of 5 stars
    ·
    589 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of California, Santa Cruz

    C for Everyone: Programming Fundamentals

    Skills you'll gain: Debugging, C (Programming Language), Code Review, Data Structures, Computer Programming, Computer Science, Computational Thinking, Integrated Development Environments, Software Technical Review, Algorithms

    4.5
    Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6.7K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Colorado Boulder

    Computer Vision

    Skills you'll gain: Computer Vision, Image Analysis, Computer Graphics, Multimodal Prompts, Keras (Neural Network Library), Visualization (Computer Graphics), Artificial Intelligence, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Data Ethics, Generative AI, Tensorflow, Deep Learning, Applied Machine Learning, Data Processing, Linear Algebra, Microsoft Excel, Data Transformation, Feature Engineering, Data Manipulation

    Build toward a degree

    4.5
    Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
    ·
    21 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    I

    IBM

    Information Technology (IT) and Cloud Fundamentals

    Skills you'll gain: Cloud Computing Architecture, Cloud Services, Generative AI, Cloud Security, Cybersecurity, Cloud Platforms, Cloud Hosting, Cloud Engineering, Cloud Computing, Data Storage, Peripheral Devices, Computer Hardware, System Configuration, Cyber Attacks, Artificial Intelligence, OSI Models, General Networking, Data Security, Cloud Infrastructure, Computer Programming

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    11K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of London

    Introduction to Computer Science and Programming

    Skills you'll gain: Computer Science, Debugging, Development Environment, Computer Systems, Web Applications, Arithmetic, Computer Literacy, Javascript, Network Security, Computer Networking, Program Development, Computer Graphics, Web Design and Development, Cybersecurity, Computer Programming, Problem Management, Computational Thinking, General Mathematics, Systems Of Measurement, Problem Solving

    Build toward a degree

    4.2
    Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.5K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

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In summary, here are 10 of our most popular computer fundamentals courses

  • Introduction to Computers: Microsoft
  • Information Technology (IT) Fundamentals for Everyone: IBM
  • Technical Support Fundamentals: Google
  • Computer Hardware and Software: University of California, Irvine
  • Learn to Program: The Fundamentals: University of Toronto
  • Computer Architecture Essentials on Arm: Arm
  • Programming Fundamentals in Swift: Meta
  • Fundamentals of Computer Network Security: University of Colorado System
  • C for Everyone: Programming Fundamentals: University of California, Santa Cruz
  • Computer Vision: University of Colorado Boulder

Frequently Asked Questions about Computer Fundamentals

Computer fundamentals refer to the basic principles, components, and operations of computer systems. It encompasses the foundational knowledge required to understand how computers work, their hardware and software components, and their role in various applications. Computer fundamentals cover topics such as computer architecture, operating systems, data representation, computer networks, and software development concepts.‎

To gain proficiency in computer fundamentals, you need to develop the following skills:

  • Computer Literacy: Basic knowledge of how to operate a computer, use an operating system, and navigate file systems.
  • Hardware and Software Components: Understanding the different components of a computer system, such as the central processing unit (CPU), memory, storage devices, and input/output devices, as well as knowledge of software applications and operating systems.
  • Data Representation: Familiarity with binary, hexadecimal, and decimal number systems, and how data is represented and stored in computers.
  • Computer Architecture: Knowledge of computer organization, including the CPU, memory hierarchy, and input/output subsystems.
  • Operating Systems: Understanding the functions and features of operating systems, such as process management, memory management, file systems, and user interfaces.
  • Networking Basics: Basic understanding of computer networks, network protocols, and internet connectivity.
  • Software Development Concepts: Familiarity with programming languages, algorithms, data structures, and the software development life cycle.
  • Cybersecurity Awareness: Knowledge of basic cybersecurity principles, such as password security, safe internet browsing, and protecting against malware.
  • Troubleshooting: Skills in diagnosing and resolving common computer hardware and software issues.
  • Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication skills to work with others, seek help, and collaborate on computer-related tasks.‎

Computer fundamentals skills are essential in various job roles, including:

  • IT Support Technician
  • Help Desk Analyst
  • Computer Operator
  • Technical Support Specialist
  • Data Entry Operator
  • Computer Lab Assistant
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Computer Trainer
  • Customer Service Representative (with technical focus)
  • Entry-level IT positions

These roles involve providing support, troubleshooting, and basic maintenance of computer systems, assisting users with software and hardware issues, and performing routine computer operations.‎

Computer fundamentals are well-suited for individuals who possess the following qualities:

  • Curiosity and Eagerness to Learn: Interest in understanding the foundations of computer systems and their operations.
  • Problem-Solving Orientation: Aptitude for identifying and resolving basic computer-related issues and troubleshooting common problems.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in following instructions and performing computer tasks accurately.
  • Patience and Customer Service Skills: Ability to assist users with varying levels of computer literacy and provide support in a patient and helpful manner.
  • Strong Work Ethic: Dedication, discipline, and a willingness to continuously learn and adapt to new technologies.
  • Communication Skills: Effective communication and interpersonal skills to interact with colleagues and users of varying technical backgrounds.
  • Teamwork: Capacity to work collaboratively in a team, seeking and providing assistance when required.‎

Several topics are related to computer fundamentals that you can study to enhance your knowledge, including:

  • Introduction to Computers and Computing
  • Computer Hardware Basics
  • Operating Systems Fundamentals
  • Introduction to Programming Concepts
  • Data Representation and Number Systems
  • Computer Networks and Internet Basics
  • Introduction to Databases
  • Software Development Fundamentals
  • Cybersecurity Basics
  • Troubleshooting Computer Issues

Exploring these topics through online courses, tutorials, and practical exercises will provide you with a solid foundation in computer fundamentals, enabling you to effectively use and navigate computer systems and pursue further studies or careers in the field of information technology.‎

Online Computer Fundamentals courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Computer Fundamentals skills. Choose from a wide range of Computer Fundamentals courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.‎

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Computer Fundamentals, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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