It Fundamentals Course

Lesson 1 • Units of Measurement in Computing

Explains bits, bytes, and storage/speed units used in IT specifications. Enables accurate interpretation of hardware and network documentation.

Lesson 2 • History and Evolution of IT

Traces computing from early machines to modern devices. Provides context for why current technologies are designed the way they are.

Lesson 3 • What Computers Are and Do

Defines computing, hardware, and software at a conceptual level. Establishes shared vocabulary used throughout the entire course.

Lesson 1 • Memory and Storage Technologies

Distinguishes RAM, ROM, HDDs, and SSDs by function and performance. Guides hardware selection decisions based on workload requirements.

Lesson 2 • The Central Processing Unit

Explains CPU architecture, cores, clock speed, and cache. Connects processor specs to real-world performance outcomes.

Lesson 3 • Power, Cooling, and Peripherals

Covers power supply units, thermal management, and common peripherals. Ensures learners can assemble and maintain a functional workstation.

Lesson 4 • Motherboards and Expansion Slots

Describes the motherboard as the system backbone connecting all components. Covers form factors, chipsets, and expansion capabilities.

Lesson 1 • Process and Memory Management

Describes how the OS schedules processes and allocates RAM. Connects these concepts to system performance and stability.

Lesson 2 • Operating System Roles and Types

Defines what an OS does and surveys major OS families. Positions the OS as the bridge between hardware and user applications.

Lesson 3 • OS Installation and Configuration

Walks through installing, updating, and configuring an operating system. Prepares students to deploy and maintain OS environments professionally.

Lesson 4 • User Accounts and Access Control

Covers creating and managing user accounts, groups, and permissions. Establishes the foundation for secure multi-user environments.

Lesson 1 • Core Network Protocols and Services

Surveys essential protocols including DNS, DHCP, HTTP, and FTP. Explains how each service supports everyday network operations.

Lesson 2 • Basic Network Troubleshooting

Applies command-line tools and systematic methods to diagnose connectivity issues. Builds practical skills for resolving common network problems.

Lesson 3 • Networking Fundamentals and Models

Introduces the OSI and TCP/IP models as frameworks for understanding network communication. Provides the conceptual map for all subsequent networking topics.

Lesson 4 • IP Addressing and Subnetting

Explains IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, subnet masks, and CIDR notation. Enables students to design and interpret basic network address schemes.

Lesson 1 • Containers and Microservices Overview

Distinguishes containers from virtual machines and introduces container orchestration concepts. Provides awareness of modern application deployment approaches.

Lesson 2 • Cloud Storage and Backup Strategies

Covers cloud-based storage options, synchronization, and backup best practices. Ensures students can design reliable data protection strategies.

Lesson 3 • Cloud Computing Models and Services

Defines IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS and compares public, private, and hybrid clouds. Prepares students to evaluate cloud options for organizational needs.

Lesson 4 • How the Internet Works

Explains internet infrastructure, ISPs, and data routing at a conceptual level. Connects everyday browsing to underlying technical mechanisms.

Lesson 1 • Application Troubleshooting and Updates

Covers diagnosing application errors, managing updates, and resolving compatibility issues. Connects software maintenance to system stability and security.

Lesson 2 • Database Concepts and Structures

Explains relational database concepts, tables, keys, and relationships. Builds the foundation for understanding how applications store and retrieve data.

Lesson 3 • Querying Data with SQL Basics

Introduces SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE statements for data manipulation. Enables students to retrieve and modify data in a relational database.

Lesson 4 • Software Development Lifecycle Overview

Introduces SDLC phases from planning through maintenance. Gives non-developers context for how software is built and deployed.

Lesson 1 • Network Security Controls

Covers firewalls, intrusion detection, VPNs, and network segmentation. Provides practical tools for protecting network infrastructure.

Lesson 2 • Common Threats and Attack Vectors

Surveys malware types, phishing, social engineering, and network attacks. Enables learners to recognize and categorize real-world threats accurately.

Lesson 3 • Core Security Concepts and Principles

Introduces the CIA triad, authentication, and authorization as security foundations. Frames all subsequent security topics within a unified conceptual model.

Lesson 4 • Security Policies and Risk Management

Introduces risk assessment, security policies, and compliance frameworks. Prepares students to align technical controls with organizational security goals.

Lesson 1 • IT Service Management Principles

Introduces service desk concepts, ticketing systems, and service-level agreements. Frames IT support within a structured service delivery model.

Lesson 2 • Troubleshooting Methodology

Presents a repeatable, systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving IT issues. Reduces resolution time and improves consistency across support interactions.

Lesson 3 • Professional IT Ethics and Conduct

Addresses data privacy, acceptable use, and ethical responsibilities in IT roles. Prepares students to act with integrity in professional environments.

Lesson 4 • IT Documentation Standards

Covers network diagrams, asset inventories, runbooks, and knowledge base articles. Ensures students can create documentation that supports team continuity.