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IBM

Introduction to Hardware and Operating Systems

Ready to dive into the world of hardware and operating systems? This beginner-friendly course builds essential entry-level skills needed for roles in IT support, networking, cybersecurity, and software development. During this course, you’ll explore core computing concepts and the four functions of computing. You’ll then dive into internal hardware such as CPUs, motherboards, GPUs, memory, interfaces, ports, and peripherals. Plus, you’ll look at how modern technologies such as virtualization (including host/guest OS and hypervisors), parallel-processing GPUs, IoT devices, and VR/AR systems are transforming today’s IT environments. You’ll get hands-on with operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile platforms, and practice workstation setup, configuration, acquisition, and troubleshooting just like an IT professional. Plus, you’ll look at specialized devices like wearables and e-readers to gain practical technology insights. Throughout, interactive labs help reinforce your learning. Then, in a final project, you’ll apply your new skills in real-world scenarios. This course is also part of the series to help you prepare for CompTIA Tech+ and A+ certification exams.

Status: Virtualization and Virtual Machines
Status: Virtual Machines
BeginnerCourse16 hours

Featured reviews

KO

5.0Reviewed Jul 10, 2022

i really enjoyed this course because of the text and video tutorials it offers , it makes learning easy for even a biginner

KS

5.0Reviewed Jun 12, 2025

This course is helped my accademics. I improved hardware and operating system knowledge. simulator desktop is more valuable for understand better. It gave prictically background as well.

PY

5.0Reviewed Sep 12, 2024

I learn many things from this course and according to me this course material were too good to understand about the hardware and operating systems

SG

5.0Reviewed May 4, 2022

This course really helped me to gain new knowledge about Hardware & Operating systems. Video lessons are so nice.

LM

5.0Reviewed Jun 4, 2022

V​ery helpful and educational. Short explanations makes it easier to remember the information. Great narrater.

A

5.0Reviewed Sep 13, 2023

This course was an eye-opener and I enjoyed all the time spent learning. I really was impressed by how everything broke down easily, thank you Coursera.

M

5.0Reviewed Mar 20, 2024

This course is well-structured and a need to know. The lab works are well organized and easy to follow. A very good user interface. Good job by those who put this together.

AT

5.0Reviewed Nov 8, 2022

Fantastic course. I learnt the basics of system setup, adjusting user settings for optimal experience and basic troubleshooting skills. I can't wait to proceed in this course.

AS

4.0Reviewed Nov 19, 2023

It was very educational and a great refresher. I wish there were more hands on tasks. I learn better when I can get more hands on tasks.

LM

4.0Reviewed Jul 2, 2024

Understanding these basics will help me effectively use, maintain, and troubleshoot computers and their operating systems.

DV

5.0Reviewed Oct 13, 2024

this course explained the concepts very clearly and was very great I'd recommend this to anyone interested in starting out

ES

5.0Reviewed Oct 8, 2024

This course gives you the basic knowledge of everything you need to know. I love it and so excited to keep learning.

All reviews

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Sindusanka Abhilasha Gamage
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