University of California, Irvine

Computer Hardware and Software

This course is part of Introduction to Computer Information Systems Specialization

Taught in English

Some content may not be translated

Tim Carrington

Instructor: Tim Carrington

11,406 already enrolled

Included with Coursera Plus

Course

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals

4.4

(117 reviews)

|

95%

Beginner level

Recommended experience

11 hours (approximately)
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Identify the basic hardware components of a computer. Explain how software creates a functional and productive computer. Build a basic computer.

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Assessments

3 quizzes

Course

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals

4.4

(117 reviews)

|

95%

Beginner level

Recommended experience

11 hours (approximately)
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

Placeholder

Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the Introduction to Computer Information Systems Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
  • Learn new concepts from industry experts
  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
  • Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
  • Earn a shareable career certificate
Placeholder
Placeholder

Earn a career certificate

Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV

Share it on social media and in your performance review

Placeholder

There are 3 modules in this course

Computing and information systems are some of the fastest growing fields in the world. The skills needed to build computers, configure security networks, and engineer software are highly valued throughout the global workforce. The possibilities are endless, exciting, and this module will provide you with the basic foundation needed to take the first steps into the world of computer information systems. You will start with readings and exercises that will teach you how computers are made and how to use hardware to create the most energy efficient and productive computers. The module concludes with a learning activity in which students will practice assembling a computer.

What's included

2 videos3 readings1 quiz2 discussion prompts

In your last module, you learned all about hardware. You studied how motherboards, hard disks, power supplies and other components work together to create a basic computer. However, a computer is a lot more than a series of wires and circuits. In order for a computer to function, it needs to communicate with its user and be told what to do. In this module, you will learn all about operating systems and other types of software that make it possible for a user to communicate with a computer and give it commands that make it a fully functional machine. This module will prepare you for your final module, in which students are asked to use software to design a network security system.

What's included

3 videos3 readings1 quiz1 discussion prompt

In your last module, you learned about software, how to communicate with a computer, and give it demands that transform it into a fully functional productivity tool. In this course's final module, you will learn how computers can communicate with each other on the internet. You will learn about basic network addressing, the domain system, and fundamental internet protocols. You will also learn some basic history about the creation of the internet. Upon completion of this module, you will have the foundational knowledge of computing and information systems needed to proceed to the next course in this specialization.

What's included

1 video3 readings1 quiz1 peer review1 discussion prompt

Instructor

Instructor ratings
4.6 (46 ratings)
Tim Carrington
University of California, Irvine
6 Courses22,792 learners

Offered by

Recommended if you're interested in Software Development

Why people choose Coursera for their career

Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."

Learner reviews

Showing 3 of 117

4.4

117 reviews

  • 5 stars

    71.79%

  • 4 stars

    15.38%

  • 3 stars

    4.27%

  • 2 stars

    1.70%

  • 1 star

    6.83%

SS
5

Reviewed on Jun 9, 2022

AS
4

Reviewed on Oct 24, 2022

NS
4

Reviewed on Oct 3, 2023

New to Software Development? Start here.

Placeholder

Open new doors with Coursera Plus

Unlimited access to 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription

Advance your career with an online degree

Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online

Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business

Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy

Frequently asked questions