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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

    • G

      Google Cloud

      Preparing for Google Cloud Certification: Cloud Network Engineer

      Skills you'll gain: Application Performance Management, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Google Cloud Platform, Cloud Infrastructure, Load Balancing, System Monitoring, Prompt Engineering, Kubernetes, Network Performance Management, Network Monitoring, Cloud Computing Architecture, Containerization, Network Architecture, Network Security, Cloud Storage, Cloud Services, Identity and Access Management, Network Routing, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Troubleshooting

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      49K reviews

      Intermediate · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

    • U

      University of California, Irvine

      Introduction to Computer Information Systems

      Skills you'll gain: Systems Development, Systems Development Life Cycle, Agile Methodology, Productivity Software, Network Security, Computer Hardware, Hardware Architecture, Data Security, Risk Management, System Design and Implementation, TCP/IP, Information Technology, Software Development Methodologies, Data Ethics, Cybersecurity, System Software, General Networking, Safety and Security, Information Privacy, Information Systems

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      227 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: New
      New
      V

      Vanderbilt University

      AI Agents and Agentic AI in Python: Powered by Generative AI

      Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, ChatGPT, Generative AI Agents, OpenAI, Productivity, Python Programming, Agentic systems, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Generative AI, Artificial Intelligence, Large Language Modeling, Creative Thinking, Ingenuity, Brainstorming, Software Development Tools, Application Development, Prototyping, Persona (User Experience), Business Logic, Automation

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      5.8K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • G

      Google

      Tools of the Trade: Linux and SQL

      Skills you'll gain: Bash (Scripting Language), Operating Systems, File Systems, Linux Commands, Linux, SQL, Unix, Database Management, Command-Line Interface, Relational Databases, Authorization (Computing), Authentications, User Accounts

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      5.4K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • Status: New
      New
      V

      Vanderbilt University

      AI Agents in Java with Generative AI

      Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, ChatGPT, Generative AI Agents, Productivity, Java, Agentic systems, OpenAI, Generative AI, Artificial Intelligence, Large Language Modeling, Software Design, Creative Thinking, Ingenuity, Brainstorming, Software Architecture, Software Development Tools, Secure Coding, Application Development, Business Logic, Systems Integration

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      5.7K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • D

      Duke University

      Introductory C Programming

      Skills you'll gain: Debugging, Maintainability, Programming Principles, Algorithms, Software Testing, Program Development, C (Programming Language), Pseudocode, Computational Thinking, Software Engineering, Simulations, System Programming, Data Structures, Software Development, Computer Programming, Command-Line Interface, Operating Systems, Development Environment, User Interface (UI), Data Import/Export

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      7.3K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • G

      Google

      System Administration and IT Infrastructure Services

      Skills you'll gain: Systems Administration, Cloud Infrastructure, IT Infrastructure, Lightweight Directory Access Protocols, Active Directory, Disaster Recovery, Server Administration, Data Storage Technologies, Cloud Computing, Servers, System Configuration, Technical Support and Services, Virtualization, User Accounts

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      26K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: New
      New
      I

      IBM

      IBM Java Developer

      Skills you'll gain: Spring Framework, Cloud-Native Computing, Software Development Life Cycle, Database Design, Hibernate (Java), Docker (Software), Containerization, Git (Version Control System), GitHub, Microservices, HTML and CSS, Front-End Web Development, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Stored Procedure, Spring Boot, Object-Relational Mapping, Development Environment, Large Language Modeling, Java Programming, Interviewing Skills

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      5.3K reviews

      Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

    • U

      University of Michigan

      Python Data Structures

      Skills you'll gain: Data Structures, Python Programming, Programming Principles, Data Import/Export, Data Manipulation, Development Environment, File Management

      4.9
      Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
      ·
      97K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • M

      MedCerts

      Medical Billing and Coding Fundamentals

      Skills you'll gain: Medical Terminology, Revenue Cycle Management, Healthcare Ethics, Medical Billing and Coding, Conflict Management, Anatomy, Pathology, Cultural Responsiveness, ICD Coding (ICD-9/ICD-10), Patient Education And Counseling, Electronic Medical Record, Cultural Diversity, Cultural Sensitivity, Professionalism, Copayment Collection and Processing, Health Care Procedure and Regulation, Professional Development, Medical Records, Health Information Management and Medical Records, Health Care

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.4K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • V

      Vanderbilt University

      Introduction to Programming with MATLAB

      Skills you'll gain: Matlab, Computer Programming, Programming Principles, UI Components, Software Design, Debugging, Mathematical Software, Development Environment, Computer Science, File Management, Algorithms, Data Import/Export, Data Structures, Engineering Calculations, Plot (Graphics), Data Management

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      18K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • U

      University of Colorado System

      Fundamentals of Computer Network Security

      Skills you'll gain: Cryptography, Public Key Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Application Security, Data Security, Firewall, Cyber Attacks, Data Encryption Standard, Penetration Testing, Network Security, Information Assurance, Encryption, Risk Management Framework, Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Vulnerability Scanning, Information Systems Security, Secure Coding, Security Controls, Software Design Patterns

      4
      Rating, 4 out of 5 stars
      ·
      579 reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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

    • Preparing for Google Cloud Certification: Cloud Network Engineer: Google Cloud
    • Introduction to Computer Information Systems: University of California, Irvine
    • AI Agents and Agentic AI in Python: Powered by Generative AI: Vanderbilt University
    • Tools of the Trade: Linux and SQL: Google
    • AI Agents in Java with Generative AI: Vanderbilt University
    • Introductory C Programming: Duke University
    • System Administration and IT Infrastructure Services: Google
    • IBM Java Developer: IBM
    • Python Data Structures: University of Michigan
    • Medical Billing and Coding Fundamentals: MedCerts

    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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