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Computer Hardware Courses Online

Understand computer hardware principles for building and repairing computers. Learn about components like CPUs, GPUs, memory, and storage devices.

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Explore the Computer Hardware Course Catalog

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    I

    IBM

    Introduction to Hardware and Operating Systems

    Skills you'll gain: Peripheral Devices, Computer Hardware, System Configuration, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Computer Systems, Virtual Machines, Operating Systems, USB, Hardware Troubleshooting, Computing Platforms, Linux, Software Installation, Technical Support, Mac OS, Computer Architecture, File Systems, Network Infrastructure, Data Storage, User Accounts, Disaster Recovery

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of California, Irvine

    Computer Hardware and Software

    Skills you'll gain: Network Security, Computer Hardware, Hardware Architecture, Computer Systems, TCP/IP, Information Technology, General Networking, Computer Literacy, Network Protocols, Operating Systems, System Configuration, Software Installation, Computer Networking, File Systems

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    215 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free
    Free
    P

    Princeton University

    Computer Architecture

    Skills you'll gain: Microarchitecture, Computer Architecture, Hardware Architecture, Computer Systems, Computer Engineering, Systems Architecture, Operating Systems, Performance Tuning, Scalability

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    3.7K reviews

    Advanced · Course · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    M

    Microsoft

    Introduction to Computers

    Skills you'll gain: Business Software, Computer Hardware, Generative AI, Operating Systems, Data Storage Technologies, Computer Systems, Data Maintenance, Enterprise Security, System Software, Information Technology, Computer Architecture, Data Storage, System Configuration, Technical Support and Services, Microsoft Windows, Servers, Cybersecurity

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    938 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    G

    Google

    Technical Support Fundamentals

    Skills you'll gain: Computer Hardware, Technical Support, Software Installation, Technical Documentation, Hardware Troubleshooting, Customer Support, Computer Networking, System Software, Technical Communication, Computer Literacy, Linux, Microsoft Windows

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    162K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    P

    Packt

    Foundations of Computer Hardware and Storage

    Skills you'll gain: Peripheral Devices, USB, Operating Systems, Computer Hardware, Data Storage Technologies, Hardware Troubleshooting, System Configuration, Electrical Safety, Technical Communication, Linux, File Systems, Information Technology, Microsoft Windows

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    22 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Colorado System

    Computer Security and Systems Management

    Skills you'll gain: Windows Servers, Computer Security, Linux Administration, Contingency Planning, Disaster Recovery, Authorization (Computing), Linux, Linux Servers, Microsoft Windows, Authentications, Business Continuity Planning, Enterprise Application Management, OSI Models, User Accounts, Group Policy, Security Management, Operating System Administration, Systems Administration, Virtualization, Cybersecurity

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.9K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Colorado System

    Fundamentals of Computer Network Security

    Skills you'll gain: Cryptography, Public Key Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Application Security, Data Security, Firewall, Cyber Attacks, Data Encryption Standard, Penetration Testing, Network Security, Information Assurance, Encryption, Risk Management Framework, Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Vulnerability Scanning, Information Systems Security, Secure Coding, Security Controls, Exploitation techniques

    4
    Rating, 4 out of 5 stars
    ·
    589 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    L

    L&T EduTech

    VLSI chip design with CPS for Industrial Applications

    Skills you'll gain: Embedded Systems, Embedded Software, Electronic Systems, Computer Systems, Internet Of Things, Automation, System Programming, Control Systems, C (Programming Language), Programmable Logic Controllers, Hardware Architecture, Power Electronics, Peripheral Devices, Wireless Networks, Medical Devices, Electrical Systems, Computer Architecture, Health Technology, Electronics, Maintenance, Repair, and Facility Services

    4.3
    Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
    ·
    15 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of California, Irvine

    The Arduino Platform and C Programming

    Skills you'll gain: Embedded Software, Embedded Systems, Debugging, C (Programming Language), Integrated Development Environments, Electronic Components, Development Environment, Computer Hardware, Computer Programming, Electronics Engineering, Digital Communications

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    7.2K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    I

    Illinois Tech

    Introduction to Contemporary Operating Systems and Hardware 1a

    Skills you'll gain: Computer Hardware, Hardware Architecture, Data Storage Technologies, System Configuration, Microarchitecture, Computer Architecture, Software Installation, Peripheral Devices

    Build toward a degree

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    90 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • U

    University of Colorado Boulder

    Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture

    Skills you'll gain: Embedded Software, Embedded Systems, Debugging, Data Structures, System Programming, Microarchitecture, C (Programming Language), Hardware Architecture, Computer Architecture, Integrated Development Environments, Software Design, Maintainability, System Configuration, Development Environment, Peripheral Devices

    4.5
    Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
    ·
    526 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Computer Hardware learners also search

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1234…562

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular computer hardware courses

  • Introduction to Hardware and Operating Systems: IBM
  • Computer Hardware and Software: University of California, Irvine
  • Computer Architecture: Princeton University
  • Introduction to Computers: Microsoft
  • Technical Support Fundamentals: Google
  • Foundations of Computer Hardware and Storage: Packt
  • Computer Security and Systems Management: University of Colorado System
  • Fundamentals of Computer Network Security: University of Colorado System
  • VLSI chip design with CPS for Industrial Applications: L&T EduTech
  • The Arduino Platform and C Programming: University of California, Irvine

Frequently Asked Questions about Computer Hardware

Computer Hardware refers to the tangible parts of a computer such as the monitor, keyboard, and motherboard. They’re the keys we tap, the mouse we move, the USB we plug in, the hard drive that contains our data, and other physical devices that run the software we use daily.

Computer Hardware is essential to powering the programs we use daily, and therefore important to learn about and constantly improve upon so we may evolve our technology. Computer Hardware can be used for special purposes beyond a desktop, laptop, or mobile device. A Hardware Developer can build devices that address accessibility, security, healthcare, entertainment, and other needs.‎

To begin a career in building computer systems, it’s recommended that learners explore what organizations are looking for. Some require a background in Computer Engineering, while others will hire learners with a background in Electrical Engineering. It’s important to supplement knowledge in these or related fields when exploring roles in Computer Hardware.

In May 2019, Computer Hardware Engineers earned a median salary of $117,220 per year. The top-paying industry for Computer Hardware Engineers was Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing. Other roles where Computer Hardware knowledge applies include Technical Writer, Sales Professional, User Experience Researcher, Creative Director, Audio Designer, Digital Learning Aide, and others.‎

Disciplines, softwares, and programming techniques such as Embedded Systems, Arduino, and hardware description languages are the building blocks that enable learners to begin understanding ways to make Computer Hardware a reality. Computer Hardware courses offered through Coursera equip learners with knowledge in hardware architecture; computer-building principles; open-source platforms designed to build digital devices; and more.

Lessons on Embedded Systems are taught by instructors from major tech names and universities, including University of California at Irvine, University of Colorado at Boulder, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and other institutions. Learners can enjoy exploring Computer Hardware with instructors specializing in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and other disciplines. Course content on Computer Hardware is delivered via video lectures, readings, quizzes, and other types of assignments.‎

Before starting to learn about computer hardware, it’s ideal to already have skills and experience in the fundamentals of computer systems and design, networking concepts and protocols, and network infrastructure principles. If you have that knowledge, you’ll already be ahead in understanding how the different parts of a computer work together. Learning about computer hardware will help you understand the essential elements of this amazing technology, from silicon chips, transistors, and central processing units, to motherboards, power supply units, and hard disks.‎

The kind of people best suited for roles in computer hardware are those who have a career concentration in engineering, technology, and system design. Focusing on these keys aspects of computer hardware helps to create successes on the job. Computer hardware engineers are involved in creating and updating a computer’s physical components. They may also design, test, and analyze new hardware systems to remain compatible with advancements in computer software. The kind of person best suited for roles in computer hardware might also have current work knowledge with programming languages like C, C+, and Verilog, all of which help computer engineers in their work. These technical assets complement the other talents that a computer hardware engineer often has, like critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, along with overall good communication skills.‎

The common career paths for someone in computer hardware are likely to start in junior roles in the field of computer systems. A person may have graduated with a computer science degree and is working in a company role that involves installing, maintaining, and testing computer servers, chips, circuit boards, and PC peripherals like monitors, keyboards, routers, printers, and more. As the person grows in the job, they may take on expanded responsibilities in server architecture, cloud platforms, and computer networking.‎

Some of the topics related to computer hardware that you can study may include learning about the CPU (central processing unit), RAM (random access memory), and storage. These are the key components of computers, and you may benefit by understanding how these work together. You may also dig into topics like cloud server platforms, which are growing in use across industries. Computer data and applications increasingly continue to move to cloud platforms, creating a consistent need for people to have the latest devices and computer technology to remotely access and execute data in the cloud.‎

Online Computer Hardware courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Computer Hardware skills. Choose from a wide range of Computer Hardware courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.‎

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Computer Hardware, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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