Computer Technical Course

Lesson 1 • Storage Technologies Overview

Compares HDD, SSD, and optical storage on speed, capacity, and reliability. Informs storage selection decisions in later applied chapters.

Lesson 2 • How Computers Process Information

Explains the fetch-decode-execute cycle and binary data representation. Establishes the conceptual base for all hardware and software topics ahead.

Lesson 3 • Input and Output Devices

Surveys peripheral categories and their communication protocols with the host system. Links device selection to user workflow requirements.

Lesson 4 • Software Layers and System Architecture

Distinguishes firmware, operating system, and application layers. Shows how each layer depends on the one below it.

Lesson 1 • OS Installation Walkthrough

Steps through a complete guided installation including disk partitioning and locale setup. Builds procedural confidence before tackling advanced configurations.

Lesson 2 • Update Management and Patch Strategy

Explains update channels, rollback procedures, and scheduling to minimise downtime. Connects patch discipline to the security topics introduced later.

Lesson 3 • Preparing Installation Media

Covers bootable USB creation, ISO verification, and partition scheme selection. Ensures clean, verified installs from the first attempt.

Lesson 4 • System Settings and Preferences

Configures display, power, accessibility, and regional options for end-user productivity. Reduces support tickets by establishing correct defaults.

Lesson 1 • Basic Network Troubleshooting

Applies command-line tools and a structured methodology to isolate connectivity faults. Reinforces OSI model knowledge through practical diagnostic scenarios.

Lesson 2 • IP Addressing and Subnetting

Teaches IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, subnet mask calculation, and CIDR notation. Enables accurate network design and host range planning.

Lesson 3 • Network Hardware and Topology

Distinguishes routers, switches, access points, and hubs by function and placement. Guides correct device selection for each network segment.

Lesson 4 • Network Models and Protocols

Introduces the OSI and TCP/IP models and maps common protocols to their layers. Provides the vocabulary needed for all subsequent networking tasks.

Lesson 1 • POST Codes and Boot Diagnostics

Interprets power-on self-test beep codes and on-screen error messages. Narrows fault location before opening the chassis.

Lesson 2 • Storage Drive Diagnostics and Replacement

Uses SMART data and sector scanning to assess drive health and plan replacements. Connects storage health to data backup strategies covered later.

Lesson 3 • Safe Work Practices and ESD Prevention

Covers electrostatic discharge risks, grounding techniques, and tool safety. Prevents costly component damage before hands-on work begins.

Lesson 4 • CPU and Memory Troubleshooting

Diagnoses overheating, seating faults, and memory errors using software and hardware tools. Builds confidence in replacing the most critical system components.

Lesson 1 • File System Types and Structures

Compares FAT32, NTFS, exFAT, and ext4 on features, limits, and use cases. Guides correct file system selection for each storage scenario.

Lesson 2 • Disk Partitioning and Volume Management

Creates, resizes, and merges partitions using GUI and command-line tools. Enables flexible storage layouts for diverse deployment requirements.

Lesson 3 • Data Recovery Fundamentals

Applies file carving, recycle bin recovery, and partition repair to retrieve lost data. Reinforces the value of proactive backup practices established earlier.

Lesson 4 • RAID Configurations and Use Cases

Explains RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 trade-offs in performance, redundancy, and cost. Prepares students to recommend and configure appropriate RAID levels.

Lesson 1 • Threat Landscape and Attack Vectors

Categorises malware types, social engineering tactics, and physical attack vectors. Establishes threat awareness as the foundation for all defensive measures.

Lesson 2 • Incident Response and Reporting

Follows a structured incident response process from detection through documentation. Prepares students to act decisively and communicate clearly during security events.

Lesson 3 • Firewalls, Antivirus, and Endpoint Protection

Configures host-based firewalls, antivirus policies, and endpoint detection tools. Builds a practical layered defence for individual workstations and servers.

Lesson 4 • Encryption and Data Protection

Applies symmetric and asymmetric encryption to protect data at rest and in transit. Connects cryptographic concepts to practical tools used in the field.

Lesson 1 • System Monitoring and Alerting

Configures performance monitors, event log alerts, and uptime dashboards. Shifts support from reactive to proactive by catching issues early.

Lesson 2 • Software Deployment and Inventory

Deploys applications silently and maintains an accurate software inventory across endpoints. Supports licence compliance and rapid rollout of security patches.

Lesson 3 • Command-Line Administration Skills

Executes system administration tasks efficiently using shell commands and scripts. Reduces reliance on GUI tools and accelerates bulk operations.

Lesson 4 • Remote Desktop and Access Tools

Configures and secures remote desktop protocols and third-party remote access software. Enables technicians to resolve issues without on-site visits.

Lesson 1 • Complex Multi-Component Failures

Diagnoses failures involving simultaneous hardware, software, and network faults. Builds the analytical depth needed for senior technician roles.

Lesson 2 • Performance Optimisation Techniques

Identifies and resolves CPU, memory, disk, and network bottlenecks on live systems. Delivers measurable performance improvements without hardware upgrades.

Lesson 3 • Structured Troubleshooting Methodology

Applies a repeatable six-step troubleshooting model to complex, ambiguous problems. Prevents random trial-and-error and shortens mean time to resolution.

Lesson 4 • Customer Communication and Service Quality

Applies active listening, plain-language explanation, and expectation management with end users. Converts technical competence into measurable customer satisfaction.