Description:
Successful candidates will acquire skills required to excel in the role of a computer technician or support professional. They will have the knowledge required to understand the fundamentals of computer technology, networking, and security, and will have the skills required to identify hardware, peripheral, networking, and security components. They will also understand the basic functionality of the operating system and basic troubleshooting methodology, practice proper safety procedures, and will effectively interact with customers and peers. They will have the skills required to install, configure, upgrade, and maintain PC workstations, the Windows OS and SOHO networks. They will utilize troubleshooting techniques and tools to effectively and efficiently resolve PC, OS, and network connectivity issues and implement security practices. Job titles in some organizations which are descriptive of the role of this individual may be: Enterprise technician, IT administrator, field service technician, PC or Support technician, etc.

Exams
The skilled security professionals are always in demand, including government, public and priviate sectors. The exam is provided by CompTIA Security+TM.

Duration: 1 wk


Prerequisites: Some exposure to computer hardware and Windows operating system. Basic typing skills.

Learning process:
Lecturing and an overview of recommended study methods.

Schedule:
Day 1: Hardware overview
Day 2: Troubleshooting, Repair and Maintenance
Day 3: Operating Systems and Software
Day 4: Networking, Security
Day 5: Practical Application


Course Outline:
1.0 Hardware
1.1 Categorize storage devices and backup media
1.2 Explain motherboard components, types and features
1.3 Classify power supplies types and characteristics
1.4 Explain the purpose and characteristics of CPUs and their features
1.5 Explain cooling methods and devices
1.6 Compare and contrast memory types, characteristics and their purpose
1.7 Distinguish between the different display devices and their characteristics
1.8 Install and configure peripherals and input devices
1.9 Summarize the function and types of adapter cards
1.10 Install, configure and optimize laptop components and features
1.11 Install and configure printers
2.0 Troubleshooting, Repair and Maintenance
2.1 Given a scenario, explain the troubleshooting theory
2.2 Given a scenario, explain and interpret common hardware and operating system
2.3 Given a scenario, determine the troubleshooting methods and tools for printers
2.4 Given a scenario, explain and interpret common laptop issues and determine the appropriate basic troubleshooting method
2.5 Given a scenario, integrate common preventative maintenance techniques
3.0 Operating Systems and Software
3.1 Compare and contrast the different Windows Operating Systems and their features
3.2 Given a scenario, demonstrate proper use of user interfaces
3.3 Explain the process and steps to install and configure the Windows OS
3.4 Explain the basics of boot sequences, methods and startup utilities
4.0 Networking
4.1 Summarize the basics of networking fundamentals, including technologies, devices and protocols
4.2 Categorize network cables and connectors and their implementations
4.3 Compare and contrast the different network types
5.0 Security
5.1 Explain the basic principles of security concepts and technologies
5.2 Summarize the following security features ...
6.0 Operational Procedure
6.1 Outline the purpose of appropriate safety and environmental procedures and given a scenario apply them
6.2 Given a scenario, demonstrate the appropriate use of communication skills and professionalism in the workplace
7.0 Computer Acronyms

Computer Support Specialist - Practical Application

1.0 Hardware
1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components
1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components
1.3 Given a scenario, install, configure, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace laptop components
1.4 Given a scenario, select and use the following tools ...
1.5 Given a scenario, detect and resolve common printer issues
2.0 Operating Systems
2.1 Select the appropriate commands and options to troubleshoot and resolve problems
2.2 Differentiate between Windows Operating System directory structures (Windows 2000, XP and Vista)
2.3 Given a scenario, select and use system utilities / tools and evaluate the results
2.4 Evaluate and resolve common issues
3.0 Networking
3.1 Troubleshoot client-side connectivity issues using appropriate tools
3.2 Install and configure a small office home office (SOHO) network
4.0 Security
4.1 Given a scenario, prevent, troubleshoot and remove viruses and malware
4.2 Implement security and troubleshoot common issues


Next step: Training in advanced security topics.