Gain Expertise in Hardware and Operating Systems with this IBM Course

Bharath Bingi

09 June 2023

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Course Overview

This Introduction to Hardware and Operating Systems is a course offered by IBM on Coursera. It provides an overview of computer hardware and operating systems, focusing on the underlying principles that govern the design and operation of these systems.

By doing this course, you will learn to identify interfaces, ports, connectors, and peripherals such as mice, keyboards, and others. You will also explore workstation setup processes, commonly used operating system settings, screen capture commands, computer acquisition practices, and job-essential troubleshooting processes. The curriculum covers mobile operating systems, Linux, and macOS, and completes a final project. Throughout the course, you will practice what you learn using interactive exercises and hands-on labs. This course is also part of the series to help you prepare for CompTIA ITF+ (The Computing Technology Industry Association IT Fundamentals) and A+ certification exams. The former certification covers the basics of IT, such as foundational concepts and database fundamentals, whereas the latter covers more advanced topics.

"It is the best course for learning about operating systems and developing your understanding of virtualization, concurrency, and persistence. It also helps prepare for CompTIA ITF+ and A+ certification exams."

- Bharath Bingi

Course Structure

The course is divided into 4 modules:

Introduction to Computer Systems

This module provides an overview of computer architecture and organization, including the components of a computer system, the role of the operating system, and the basic principles of computer performance.

Computer Hardware

This module covers the components of a computer system in detail, including the CPU, memory, input/output devices, and storage devices. It also covers how these components are connected and communicate with each other.

Operating Systems

This module covers the functions and features of operating systems, including process management, memory management, file systems, and input/output management. It also covers different types of operating systems, including single-user, multi-user, and real-time systems.

Computer Networks

This module covers the basics of computer networks, including network architectures, protocols, and the OSI model. It also covers different network technologies, including Local Area Network (LAN)s, Wide-area Network (WAN)s, and wireless networks.

Throughout the course, learners will work on programming assignments and quizzes to reinforce their understanding of the material. The course also includes a final project, where learners will design and implement a simple operating system.

Overall, this course is a great way to gain a deep understanding of computer hardware and operating systems and to prepare for further study in computer science and related fields.

Insider Tips

To get the best out of this course, I have included some important tips that you might find useful.

Assessment

Every week, there will be 3 chances to attempt the quiz. After 3 attempts, you can try again only after 8 hours.

Content Delivery

It is a text-based and interactive course from IBM, focusing on hands-on learning. You will also get hands-on experience with Input/Output (I/O) devices and file systems to practice various persistence-related tasks. Generally, it is the best course for learning about operating systems from the ground up.

Prerequisites

This is a beginner-level course. No prior knowledge is required.

Final Take

I undertook this course during my second year of studying Bachelors in Technology. It is the best course for learning about operating systems and developing your understanding of virtualization, concurrency, and persistence; the three most important concepts in operating system fundamentals which will help you understand how operating systems function, how memory is handled, and how they allow you to run several programs.