Free course · Security & Infrastructure
Computer Maintenance Starter
A free, hands-on introduction to looking after computers: hardware basics, managing the operating system and software, troubleshooting common faults and preventive care for local conditions.
Free · self-study · no certificate
About 5 hours
2 modules · 5 lessons
What you will be able to do
- Identify the main hardware components and work safely
- Keep an operating system updated and remove unwanted software
- Diagnose common faults with a step-by-step checklist
Who it's for
- Beginners who want to fix and maintain their own computers
- Office and school staff who look after shared machines
Before you start
Basic computer use.
Module 1 · about 120 minutes
Hardware and Software Basics
Components, operating system care and troubleshooting.
- Name components and their jobs
- Follow a diagnostic checklist
Module 2 · about 80 minutes
Keeping Machines Running
Preventive maintenance for dust, heat and power, plus peripherals and connections.
- Plan preventive maintenance
- Connect and test peripherals
Further learning
- Windows help & learning (Microsoft Support) — Official guides for Windows updates, settings, recovery options and troubleshooting.
- Windows client troubleshooting (Microsoft Learn) — Technical troubleshooting documentation for Windows used in the Intermediate and Advanced levels.
- CompTIA A+ — A vendor-neutral certification for IT support technicians; check the current exam objectives before preparing.
- Ubuntu tutorials — Includes creating a bootable USB, used for the Linux live USB rescue lesson.
Continue with a full program
- Computer Maintenance — Diagnose and repair computers, install systems, and keep labs running smoothly.
- Computer Networking — Design and maintain networks for offices, schools, and organizations.
- Cybersecurity — Protect systems and data from attacks with practical security techniques and tools.
Want the full Computer Maintenance program?
This free course is an introduction. The full program is taught live by an instructor, with practical assignments, assessments, projects and a certificate.
See the Computer Maintenance program