Foundations of Computer Hardware and Storage

This course is designed to provide a solid foundation in computer hardware and mass storage technologies, focusing on concepts critical to passing the CompTIA A+ certification exams. You will start by exploring the essentials of the CompTIA A+, understanding why it's a key certification for IT professionals. From there, you will learn professional communication techniques and safety procedures vital for a tech’s daily tasks. As you progress, you'll dive into the visible components of computers, gaining practical insights into the operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. You’ll also explore the boot order process, power protection methods, and the various types of mass storage partitioning and file systems. By mastering both the older MBR and modern GPT partitioning methods, you will gain the skills necessary to manage and troubleshoot storage devices in any IT environment. Finally, you will learn about implementing RAID, encrypting storage for security, and maintaining storage devices to ensure longevity. Each topic is covered in-depth to provide a comprehensive understanding of how to manage essential peripherals, power supplies, and the intricacies of USB standards. By the end of the course, you'll be ready to confidently take the CompTIA A+ exams and begin your career as an IT technician. This course is ideal for individuals looking to start a career in IT as well as professionals seeking CompTIA A+ certification. No prior experience is required, but basic computer literacy is recommended.

• All about the CompTIA A+
• In this module, we will introduce the CompTIA A+ certification, explore its significance as an entry-level credential in IT, and review the exam content and structure. You'll also learn strategies to successfully pass the exam using the provided study materials.
• Safety and Professionalism
• In this module, we will focus on the professional skills and safety procedures every technician must master. You'll learn how to communicate effectively with clients, handle challenging customer situations, and follow physical safety protocols to ensure a safe work environment.
• The Visible Computer
• In this module, we will explore the core components of computers, focusing on safety procedures, operating systems, and the roles of users. We will also tour major OS platforms, examining their similarities and differences to enhance your understanding of system environments.
• Power Supplies
• In this module, we will discuss the significance of power protection for computer hardware. You'll learn about tools and techniques used to safeguard systems from power surges and outages, ensuring hardware longevity and reliability.
• Mass Storage Technologies
• In this module, we will explore the concept of boot order in systems with multiple storage devices. You will understand how the boot sequence works and how to configure it properly to ensure a smooth startup process for different operating environments.
• Implementing Mass Storage
• In this module, we will dive into the implementation of mass storage systems. You'll learn about partitioning methods, file systems, and drive maintenance, as well as how to configure RAID setups for optimized data storage and performance.
• Essential Peripherals
• In this module, we will explore the essential peripherals that support modern computing, including USB connectors and webcams. You'll learn about the evolution of USB standards and gain hands-on knowledge of video conferencing tools like Microsoft Teams.