Computer Hardware Courses

What is Computer Hardware?

We talk a lot about developing computer applications, but the hardware is a critical part of that development. Without innovations in the hardware itself, computers can't run new, processing-intensive software. Hardware consists of the central processing unit required to power the operating system. Computers have a power supply and the hard drive for storage. It needs random access memory or RAM to ensure smooth operation. As computers get faster and more efficient, hardware is the reason those software upgrades can happen. Whether it's the newest touchpad on your laptop computer or the memory module in a desktop computer, the physical architecture of a personal computer or GPU affects its capabilities. The physical parts of computer science must move with software development, or we'll out-develop our capabilities.

Learn about Computer Hardware

For every software developer out there creating new programs, a hardware engineer is building physical systems capable of handling the loads modern applications need. Build a career around the engineering required for the next level of computer processing with courses and certifications designed to give you the fundamental knowledge you need to get started.

Computer Hardware Courses and Certifications

EdX.org offers everything you need to explore the world of computer hardware through partnerships with leading institutions in the field. You can explore Hardware Essentials through Microsoft's IT Support course or expand to something more specific with IBM's course on using GPU's to expand deep learning. Microsoft's professional certification course on IT Maintenance gives you an overview of the entire computer system, hardware, and software. You'll learn not only how to manage hardware components but also how to combine that maintenance with the software needs of your company. You can learn every aspect you'll need to keep your organization running smoothly and safely.

Explore a Career in Computer Hardware

If you've ever gotten excited about solid-state drives or the firmware your personal computer, studying the ins and outs of computer hardware could jumpstart a career for you. Explore how new storage devices and other physical components can bring new possibilities to what computers can do. Consider what computers were capable of 20 years ago and what they can do today. We have small computers in our hands with mobile devices and GPUs capable of processing pictures of black holes. It's exciting to consider how graphics cards and optical drives will continue to changes the types of computers we have at our disposal. Be on the forefront of that development with the right courses and get your career started.