Help Desk Handbook for End Users: PC Basics, Hardware, Operating Systems, and Applications

Everyone can benefit from knowing how IT works. Get tips to solve beginner-level IT issues related to computer setup, app installation, file management, backup, and more.

Introduction

• Welcome

1. How People Use Computers

• The case for computer literacy
• Features common to every computing device
• Common general-purpose computing devices
• Networks of computing devices
• Remotely-accessed computer systems
• Specialized computer systems

2. System Hardware

• CPUs
• Passive and active cooling
• RAM and active memory
• Motherboards
• Power supplies
• Basics of binary
• AMA: Ask me anything about system hardware

3. Input and Output Ports and Peripherals

• General use I/O devices
• Specialty I/O devices
• Ports and connectors
• AMA: Ask me anything about I/O, ports and peripherals

4. Data Storage and Sharing

• Storage technologies
• Mass storage variation
• AMA: Ask me anything about data storage and sharing

5. Setting Up and Configuring a PC

• Preparing the work area
• Setting up a desktop pc
• Completing PC setup
• AMA: Ask me anything about setting up and configuring a PC

6. Understanding Operating Systems

• Operating system functions
• Operating system interfaces
• AMA: Ask me anything about understanding Oss

7. Working with Applications

• Walking survey of applications
• Applications and extensions
• Managing applications
• AMA: Ask me anything about working with applications

8. Managing Files

• File management tools
• File manipulation
• Backups
• AMA: Ask me anything about managing files