Stow College

Cisco IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software

IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software is a hands-on, career-oriented e-learning solution with an emphasis on practical experience tohelp students develop fundamental computer skills, along with essential career skills and provides a foundation for the skills needed tohelp meet the growing demand for entry-level information and communication technology (ICT) professionals.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course. However it is recommended that students have at least 6 months experience ofusing computers and understand the basics of Internet technologies and computer hardware . This course would also be suitable forthose already in employment in the field of IT

Course Content

Upon completion of the IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software course, students will be able to perform the following tasks:

• Define information technology (IT) and describe the components of a personal computer• Describe how to protect self, equipment, and the environment from accidents, damage, and contamination

• Perform a step-by-step assembly of a desktop computer and install and navigate an operating system• Explain and perform preventive maintenance

• Explain the steps of the troubleshooting process and perform basic troubleshooting

• Upgrade or replace components of a laptop, printer, or scanner based on customer needs• Configure computers to attach to an existing network

• Implement basic physical and software security principles• Apply good communications skills and professional behavior while working with customers

• Assess customer needs, analyze possible configurations, and provide solutions or recommendations for hardware, operating systems, networking, and security tools are designed to supplement classroom learning and provide an interactive “hands-on” experience in environments with limited physical equipment.