Packt

Foundations of IT Systems and Operating Systems

Packt

Foundations of IT Systems and Operating Systems

Included with Coursera Plus

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.

Details to know

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Recently updated!

February 2026

Assessments

11 assignments

Taught in English

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Packt
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