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Ever wonder how some people never seem to have any issues with their Windows PC?  Learn the magic formula from an IT professional. You will be guided through installing and setting up your PC with the latest Windows 8 Operating System and desired software.  Learn the minimum hardware requirements for today’s software and operating systems and how to choose the right hardware configuration if you need to make a new purchase.  Install the Windows Operating System from “bare metal”, protect and secure your PC, and keep it all running smoothly for the life of the equipment.
 
One-month course; Brian Selke, instructor
 
Agenda
 
Unit 1
Hardware: The Foundation of a Well-built System
  • Memory, CPU, and hard drive – what are they and what role do each of these play?
  • Is it better to purchase something new or upgrade what I have?
  • What to look for in a new system to get the most for your money
  • BIOS or UEFI – What are these and why the right choice is important?
  • Warranty and tech support – stuff happens
 
Unit 2
Installation of the Windows Operating System and Applications

  • The manufacturer installed the Operating System.  Why do I want to install from scratch?
  • What version of Windows 8 is right for you?
  • Partitioning your hard drive – why is separating the system from applications important?
  • Under the hood settings for a properly running Operating System
  • Installing applications – what are the best practices and how to avoid pitfalls
 
Unit 3
50,000 Reasons a Day to protect your PC
  • What is malware, why is it on my system, and how did this happen?
  • Is the anti-malware solution from the manufacturer the best solution?
  • Email and the internet – how bad guys use these two things to infiltrate your fortress
  • How to scan for malware and remove the threats
  • Everything has gone wrong – getting it all back to normal
 
Unit 4 
Water and Feed: Maintaining your PC and Protecting Your Investment
  • Windows Updates – what are these, why should I care, how often does Microsoft release them, and when should I apply them?
  • Drivers – what are these and why should I keep these up to date?
  • Application updates – how to make sure you’re using the latest version of your applications and why this is important
  • Keeping your system running as smoothly and efficiently as possible by developing good, routinely executed maintenance habits
  • Backup and recovery – implementing a good backup solution for those unexpected “uh oh” moments
Question MarkAbout online learning

 

Online learning is a fun, enjoyable and very productive way to learn. Millions of people are learning online each year. You will engage with the instructor and other participants. You will get to know your instructor and other participants. You may make friends.  It’s easy. It’s fun. 

GearsHow the Course Works

It is easy to participate in your online course. After you register, you will be given a web address to go to get into your online classroom.  You will have a password and use your email address and password to gain access.

Once inside the online classroom, here’s what you can expect.

CalendarParticipate when you want

You can participate any time of day or evening. The online classroom is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
There are no live real-time requirements or meetings. You decide when you participate.
For the best learning, participants should log into the course on 2-3 different days of the week.

ChecklistWhat you will do

For each Unit, you will:

  • Read the print readings (about 20 pages a week)
  • Have the option of accessing the online readings
  • Listen to the audio presentation for the Unit and view the slides
  • Have the option of taking a self-quiz to see how much you have learned
  • Engage in written online discussion with your instructor and other participants

For best learning, you should make one or more comments at 2-3 different times each week.
The content (readings, audio lectures, slides) and self quizzes are accessible for the entire course, so you can work ahead, or go back and review again, at your convenience.

DiscussionDiscussion

The Discussion for each Unit lasts one week. All comments are made in writing and can be made at any time of the day or night.

Your instructor will log into the Discussion area at least once a day and answer questions, make comments, and respond to comments by you and the other participants.

We encourage you to make 2-3 comments each week to maximize your learning and enjoyment of the course.


It’s easy. It’s fun.

Next offering(s):
-Next session coming soon-

$ USD
Ave. hours 16; 1.6 CEUs/ILUs



About Your Instructor
 
 
Brian W. Selke has been an Information Technology professional since 1990. He began his computer career in the U.S. Air Force as a part-time Systems Security Officer. In 1993 he joined Taylor Made Office Systems / IKON and became the lead technician for the digital line of networked copiers in the San Francisco branch. In 1999 he teamed up with Advent Software, Inc., where he is currently a Senior Engineer in the Information Technology Department as a Windows Server Specialist.

Directional ArrowsCourse Objectives

  • Learn how to choose the right hardware or upgrade path for your needs
  • Learn how to configure the hardware and install Windows 8 from scratch
  • Understand principles of security and how to choose the right software to protect your PC
  • Implement a disasters recovery plan so you will not to be caught off-guard when problems strike
  • Develop a routine for ongoing maintenance and system health

Puzzle PiecesCourse Outcomes

At the end of the course you will:
  • Have an understanding of the key components to look at when shopping for or upgrading your existing Windows-based PC
  • Be able to confidently wipe your PC’s hard drive of all data and install a fresh copy of the Windows 8 Operating System and all necessary applications
  • Understand what malware is and how to prevent the bad guys from ruining your day
  • Know how to recover from a complete disaster with a smile on your face
  • Develop good habits for taking care of your PC
Completion Requirements