Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Systems

1. Introduction to Computer Systems

• Overview of computer systems
• Components: Hardware and Software
• Input and Output devices
• Basic functioning of a computer system

2. Computer Hardware Fundamentals

• Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  • Role and functions
  • Components (ALU, Control Unit)
• Memory (RAM)
• Storage Devices overview
• Motherboard
• Graphics Card
• Power Supply Unit (PSU)

3. Computer Software Basics

• Types of Software
  • System Software
    • Operating Systems
    • Utility programs
  • Application Software
• Roles and interactions of software in computer systems

4. Operating Systems

• Definition and purpose
• Functions of Operating Systems
  • Process management
  • Memory management
  • File system management
  • Device management
• Types of Operating Systems
  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
• User Interfaces
  • Graphical User Interface (GUI)
  • Command Line Interface (CLI)
• File management and organization
• Multitasking and multiprocessing capabilities

5. Computer Storage Systems

• Types of storage devices
  • Hard Disk Drives (HDD)
  • Solid-State Drives (SSD)
  • Optical Drives (CD/DVD/Blu-ray)
  • Flash Drives (USB)
• Data storage capacities
• Speed and performance considerations

6. Input and Output Devices

• Input devices
  • Keyboard
  • Mouse
  • Scanner
  • Other input devices (microphone, webcam)
• Output devices
  • Monitor
  • Printer
  • Speakers
  • Other output devices
• Functions and examples

7. Computer Networking Basics

• Fundamentals of networking
• Network Types
  • Local Area Network (LAN)
  • Wide Area Network (WAN)
  • Wireless LAN (WLAN)
• Network Components
  • Routers
  • Switches
  • Modems
• Network Protocols
  • TCP/IP overview
• Internet connectivity basics

8. Computer Security and Privacy

• Importance of computer security
• Common cyber threats
• Security measures
  • Antivirus software
  • Firewalls
  • Encryption
  • Safe browsing practices
• Protecting personal data

9. Computer Maintenance and Troubleshooting

• Basic maintenance tasks
  • Software updates
  • Disk cleanup
  • Disk defragmentation
• Troubleshooting hardware issues
• Troubleshooting software issues
• Best practices for system upkeep