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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
      L

      LearnQuest

      Introduction to Java

      Skills you'll gain: Eclipse (Software), Java, Java Programming, Integrated Development Environments, Development Environment, Software Installation, Computer Programming, Programming Principles, Program Development, Object Oriented Programming (OOP)

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      2.1K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      J

      Johns Hopkins University

      Healthcare IT Support

      Skills you'll gain: Medical Privacy, Electronic Medical Record, Telehealth, Health Technology, Patient Safety, Health Information Management, Medical Equipment and Technology, Security Awareness, Cloud Security, Personally Identifiable Information, Encryption, Help Desk Support, Desktop Support, End User Training and Support, Health Care, Technical Support and Services, Decision Support Systems, Health Care Procedure and Regulation, Clinical Data Management, Patient Education and Support

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.3K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      L

      LearnQuest

      Learning Linux for LFCA Certification

      Skills you'll gain: Package and Software Management, Linux Administration, Linux, Linux Commands, Linux Servers, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), System Monitoring, Public Key Infrastructure, File Management, Command-Line Interface, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Git (Version Control System), File Systems, User Accounts, Firewall, Remote Access Systems, Cloud Computing Architecture, DevOps, Virtualization, Cloud Computing

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.1K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      P

      Politecnico di Milano

      Artificial Intelligence: an Overview

      Skills you'll gain: Unsupervised Learning, Supervised Learning, Machine Learning Algorithms, Machine Learning, Applied Machine Learning, Intellectual Property, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Data Ethics, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Legal Risk, Artificial Intelligence, Reinforcement Learning, General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Dimensionality Reduction, Governance, Cloud Platforms, Deep Learning, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Computer Science, Computer Vision

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      617 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      Status: AI skills
      AI skills
      M

      Microsoft

      Microsoft UX Design

      Skills you'll gain: Storyboarding, User Research, Information Architecture, User Experience Design, Design Thinking, Prototyping, Usability Testing, User Experience, Persona (User Experience), Wireframing, Design Research, User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX) Design, Interaction Design, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, Human Centered Design, Figma (Design Software), Usability, User Interface (UI) Design, User Centered Design, Design

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      406 reviews

      Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      A

      Advancing Women in Tech

      Real-World Product Management

      Skills you'll gain: Product Roadmaps, Product Management, Customer Retention, Cross-Functional Team Leadership, Professional Networking, Financial Analysis, Product Strategy, Technical Product Management, Product Requirements, Product Development, Financial Statement Analysis, Product Lifecycle Management, New Product Development, Innovation, Team Leadership, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), User Experience Design, Performance Management, Interviewing Skills, Branding

      Build toward a degree

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      898 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      I

      IBM

      NoSQL, Big Data, and Spark Foundations

      Skills you'll gain: NoSQL, Apache Hadoop, Apache Spark, MongoDB, PySpark, Apache Hive, Databases, Apache Cassandra, Big Data, Machine Learning, Generative AI, IBM Cloud, Applied Machine Learning, Kubernetes, Supervised Learning, Distributed Computing, Docker (Software), Database Management, Data Pipelines, Scalability

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      764 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      L

      Lund University

      European Business Law

      Skills you'll gain: Intellectual Property, Legal Writing, Labor Law, Arbitration, Environmental Laws, Case Law, Legal Research, Tax Laws, Regulation and Legal Compliance, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Commercial Laws, Legal Strategy, Business, International Relations, Compliance Management, Business Strategy, European History, Competitive Analysis, Regulatory Compliance, Business Economics

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.8K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      G

      Google Cloud

      Advanced Machine Learning on Google Cloud

      Skills you'll gain: Natural Language Processing, MLOps (Machine Learning Operations), Tensorflow, Large Language Modeling, Reinforcement Learning, Computer Vision, Google Cloud Platform, Keras (Neural Network Library), Systems Design, Image Analysis, Hybrid Cloud Computing, Applied Machine Learning, Systems Architecture, Performance Tuning, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Deep Learning, Artificial Neural Networks, Machine Learning, Machine Learning Algorithms, Distributed Computing

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.5K reviews

      Advanced · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Michigan

      Python Classes and Inheritance

      Skills you'll gain: Object Oriented Programming (OOP), JSON, Object Oriented Design, Unit Testing, Python Programming, Maintainability, Debugging, Software Testing, Data Structures

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      3.7K reviews

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of California, Davis

      JavaScript for Beginners

      Skills you'll gain: jQuery, Javascript and jQuery, Ajax, Javascript, Data Validation, UI Components, HTML and CSS, Scripting, JSON, Scripting Languages, Web Development Tools, JavaScript Frameworks, Web Applications, Web Design and Development, Event-Driven Programming, Game Design, Application Programming Interface (API), Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Animations, Programming Principles

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.1K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      K

      Kennesaw State University

      Managing Cybersecurity

      Skills you'll gain: Network Security, Incident Response, Network Administration, Vulnerability Management, Cybersecurity, Contingency Planning, Cyber Governance, Cyber Attacks, Disaster Recovery, Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Security Policies, Security Management, Firewall, Network Monitoring, General Networking, Cyber Security Strategy, Crisis Management, Vulnerability Assessments, Cyber Security Assessment, Risk Management

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.3K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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

    • Introduction to Java: LearnQuest
    • Healthcare IT Support: Johns Hopkins University
    • Learning Linux for LFCA Certification: LearnQuest
    • Artificial Intelligence: an Overview: Politecnico di Milano
    • Microsoft UX Design: Microsoft
    • Real-World Product Management: Advancing Women in Tech
    • NoSQL, Big Data, and Spark Foundations: IBM
    • European Business Law: Lund University
    • Advanced Machine Learning on Google Cloud: Google Cloud
    • Python Classes and Inheritance: University of Michigan

    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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