ITSM 1203: IT Fundamentals

Credit Hours 3.0 Lecture Hours 2.0 Lab Hours 2.0
Type of Credit
Occupational/Technical
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Course Description

This comprehensive course is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of essential information technology concepts and skills, focusing on the CompTIA® IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification objectives. The course serves as an introduction to the world of IT, catering to students with little to no prior IT experience. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical exercises, students will gain a strong grasp of fundamental IT principles, preparing them for further studies or entry-level positions in the IT industry. From networking and cybersecurity essentials to hardware and software basics, IT Fundamentals demonstrates your readiness for the digital workplace. This course prepares students for the CompTIA ITF+ (FCU-U61) exam.

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Identify and understand the purpose of computer components.
  • Explain the use of different connector types.
  • Explain Operating Systems and their functions and features.
  • Define and identify basic security threats.
  • Implement best IT and security practices.
  • Perform proper steps to set up a basic workstation.
  • Describe the importance and impact of various environmental and safety concepts.
  • Understand and utilize network essentials.
  • Communicate effectively when discussing IT basics.
  • Explain software and hardware management practices.
General Education Distribution Area
AAS Business Elective
Topical Outline

1. Common Computing Devices
a. Information Technology
b. Personal Computers
c. Mobile and IoT Devices
 
2. Using a Workstation
a. Setting up a PC system
b. Ergonomic concepts
c. Navigating an OS
d. Using input devices
e. Icons and Windows
 
3. Using an OS
a. Functions of an Operating System
b. Types of Operating Systems
c. Virtualization
d. Microsoft Windows
e. Apple macOS and iOS
f. Linux, Chrome and Android
g. File Explorer
h. Windows Settings and Control Panel
i. Using a Web Browser
 
4. Managing an OS
a. Management Interfaces
b. Process and Service Management
c. Memory and Disk Management
d. Command Line Interfaces
e. Access Control and Protection
 
5. Troubleshooting and Support
a. Support and Troubleshooting
b. Identifying the Problem
c. Understanding the Problem
d. Resolving and Documenting the Problem
e. Troubeshooting PC issues
f. Getting Support
g. Using a Search Engine
 
6. Using Data Types and Units
a. Notational Systems
b. Units of Measure
c. Data Types
d. Data Representation
e. The Value of Data
f. Intellectual Property
g. Data-Driven Business Decisions
 
7. Using Apps
a. Installing Applications
b. Application Management
c. Managing Software Licensing
d. Productivity Software
e. Collaboration Software
f. Business Software
 
8. Programming and App Development
a. Programming Logic
b. Programming Languages
c. Programming Concepts
d. Object-Oriented Programming
e. Scripting Languages
f. Application Platforms and Delivery
 
9. Using Databases
a. Database Concepts
b. Database Structures
c. Relational Methods
d. Database Access Methods
e. Application Architecture Models
 
10. System Components
a. Selecting a Computer
b. Motherboard Components
c. Processors
d. Features of Processors
e. Expansion Bus
f. System Cooling
g. BIOS and UEFI System Firmware
 
11. Using Device Interfaces
a. Computer Connector Types
b. USB and Firewire
c. Graphic Devices
d. Graphic Device Interfaces
e. Input Devices
f. Configuring Peripherals
g. Bluetooth and NFC
h. Networking Interfaces
 
12. Using Peripheral Devices
a. Installing and Uninstalling Devices
b. Display Devices
c. Display Settings
d. Multimedia Ports and Devices
e. Printer Types
f. Installing and Configuring a Printer
g. Scanners and Cameras
 
13. Using Storage Devices
a. System Memory
b. Mass Storage Devices
c. Optical Discs and Drives
 
14. Using File Systems
a. Managing the File System
b. Folders and Directories
c. File Explorer
d. Files
e. File Attributes and Permissions
f. Searching for Folder and Files
g. File Types and Extensions
 
15. Networking Concepts
a. Network Components
b. TCP/IP
c. Internet Protocol
d. Address Resolution Protocol
e. DNS and URLs
f. Internet Application Services
 
16. Connecting to a Network
a. Internet Service Types
b. Wireless Internet Services
c. Setting up a Wireless Network
d. Configuring a Wireless Client
e. Connecting to an Enterprise Network
 
17. Secure Web Browsing
a. Safe Browsing Practices
b. Configuring Browser Security
c. Managing Cookies and PII
d. Digital Certificates and Anti-Phishing
e. Enabling a Firewall
 
18. Using Shared Storage
a. Local Sharing and Storage
b. Windows File Sharing
c. Hosted Sharing and Storage
d. Backups
e. Windows Backup
 
19. Using Mobile Devices
a. Using a Mobile Device
b. Mobile Applications and App Stores
c. Network Connectivity
d. Email Configuration
e. Synchronization and Data Transfer
 
20. Security Concerns
a. Computer Security Basics
b. Social Engineering
c. Business Continuity
d. Disaster Recovery
 
21. Using Best Practices
a. Securing Devices
b. Malware
c. Preventing Malware Infections
d. Spam
e. Software Sources and Path Management
 
22. Using Access Controls
a. Access Controls
b. User Account Types
c. Authentication Factors
d. Uses of Encryption
e. Password Cracking and Management
 
23. Behavioral Security Concepts
a. Policies and Procedures
b. Handling Confidential Information
c. Acceptable Use Policies
d Expectations of Privacy