Operating system courses can help you learn process management, memory allocation, file systems, and user interfaces. You can build skills in troubleshooting system errors, optimizing performance, and implementing security protocols. Many courses introduce tools like Linux, Windows, and virtualization software, illustrating how these skills are applied in real-world environments.

Skills you'll gain: Operating System Administration, Package and Software Management, File Systems, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Operating Systems, OS Process Management, Linux Administration, Remote Access Systems, System Monitoring, Command-Line Interface, User Accounts, Systems Administration, Technical Support and Services, File Management, Software Installation, Virtualization
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Skills you'll gain: File Systems, Operating Systems, OS Process Management, C (Programming Language), System Programming, Unix, Virtualization, Data Integrity, Debugging, File I/O, Linux, Performance Tuning, Distributed Computing, Data Storage, Command-Line Interface, Virtual Machines, Data Security, Computer Hardware, Scalability, Data Structures
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Peripheral Devices, Computer Hardware, System Configuration, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Computer Systems, Virtual Machines, Operating Systems, USB, Hardware Troubleshooting, Computing Platforms, Linux, Software Installation, Technical Support, Mac OS, Computer Architecture, File Systems, Network Infrastructure, Data Storage, User Accounts, Disaster Recovery
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Infosec
Skills you'll gain: Penetration Testing, Linux Commands, Command-Line Interface, Linux, Cybersecurity, Operating System Administration, Operating Systems, Windows PowerShell, Unix Commands, Microsoft Windows, Computer Systems, Mac OS
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Illinois Tech
Skills you'll gain: Open Source Technology, Linux, Package and Software Management, Shell Script, Linux Administration, Ubuntu, Linux Commands, Microsoft Windows, Unix Shell, Windows PowerShell, User Accounts, Bash (Scripting Language), Command-Line Interface, Systems Administration, Unix, Operating Systems, Scripting, Control Panels, Windows Servers, Security Management
Build toward a degree
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Computer Systems, Operating Systems, Generative AI, Business Systems, Cybersecurity, Enterprise Security, Servers, Security Awareness, Computer Hardware, Information Systems Security, Computer Architecture, Data Storage, Patch Management, Cloud Computing
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani
Skills you'll gain: Operating Systems, OS Process Management, System Programming, File Systems, Unix Commands, Command-Line Interface, System Monitoring, System Design and Implementation, Performance Tuning, Package and Software Management, File Management, Algorithms, Cloud Platforms, Security Controls, User Accounts, Debugging
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Illinois Tech
Skills you'll gain: Virtualization, Virtual Machines, Hyper-V, Virtual Networking, VMware ESX Servers, Data Centers, Data Storage, Cloud Computing, Servers, Virtual Reality, iSCSI Configuration, Remote Access Systems, Computer Hardware
Build toward a degree
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Bash (Scripting Language), Test Automation, Unit Testing, Scripting, Software Testing, Linux Commands, Test Driven Development (TDD), Unix Commands, Development Environment, Operating Systems, Command-Line Interface, File Management, OS Process Management, File Systems, Automation, Python Programming
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Operating System Administration, Cloud Computing, Linux Commands, Linux Administration, Linux Servers, Cloud Security, Operating Systems, Windows PowerShell, Windows Servers, File Systems, System Software, Mac OS, Command-Line Interface, Active Directory, Computer Systems, Virtual Machines, Firewall, Virtualization, Containerization, User Accounts
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Akamai Technologies, Inc.
Skills you'll gain: Linux, Ubuntu, Linux Administration, File Systems, Linux Commands, Operating Systems, User Accounts, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, OS Process Management, File Management, Unix Shell, System Configuration, Command-Line Interface, Open Source Technology, Security Controls, Virtualization, Virtual Machines
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Shell Script, Unix Shell, File Management, File Systems, Unix Commands, Operating Systems, Command-Line Interface, OS Process Management, System Configuration
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
An operating system (OS) is a crucial software component that manages computer hardware and software resources, providing a stable environment for applications to run. It acts as an intermediary between users and the computer hardware, enabling users to interact with the system through a user interface. The importance of operating systems lies in their ability to manage system resources efficiently, ensuring that multiple applications can run simultaneously without conflict. They also provide essential services such as file management, memory management, and process scheduling, making them foundational to both personal and enterprise computing.
Careers in the field of operating systems can be diverse and rewarding. Some potential job roles include Systems Administrator, where you manage and maintain operating systems for organizations; Software Developer, focusing on creating applications that run on various operating systems; and IT Support Specialist, providing assistance with OS-related issues. Additionally, roles such as DevOps Engineer and Cloud Engineer often require a solid understanding of operating systems, especially in environments that utilize virtualization and cloud technologies.
To effectively learn about operating systems, you should focus on several key skills. First, a solid understanding of computer architecture is essential, as it helps you grasp how operating systems interact with hardware. Familiarity with programming languages, particularly C and Python, is also beneficial, as many operating systems are built using these languages. Additionally, knowledge of system administration, networking concepts, and security practices will enhance your ability to work with operating systems in real-world scenarios.
There are many excellent online courses available for learning about operating systems. For a foundational understanding, consider the Operating System Foundations course, which covers essential concepts. If you're interested in Linux, the Linux Operating System: A Complete Linux Guide for Beginners is a great choice. For those looking to specialize, the Introduction to Operating Systems Specialization offers a comprehensive curriculum.
Yes. You can start learning about operating system on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in operating system skills, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
Typical topics covered in operating system courses include process management, memory management, file systems, and system calls. Students may also explore concepts like concurrency, deadlocks, and security mechanisms. Advanced courses might explore into virtualization, distributed systems, and performance optimization, providing a comprehensive understanding of how operating systems function and their role in modern computing.
To learn about operating systems, start by selecting a course that aligns with your current knowledge level and goals. Begin with foundational courses that cover basic concepts and gradually progress to more advanced topics. Engage with interactive content, participate in discussions, and complete hands-on projects to reinforce your learning. Additionally, practice using different operating systems, such as Linux or Windows, to gain practical experience.
For training and upskilling employees in operating systems, courses like Operating System Virtualization - Bachelor's and Operating System Virtualization - build proficiency in's are highly beneficial. These courses focus on practical applications and advanced concepts, making them suitable for professionals looking to enhance their skills in managing and deploying operating systems in various environments.