Introduction to Hardware and Operating System

Coursera - IBM

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Module 5

Evaluating Computing Performance and Storage

Learning Objectives

  • Identify the four key processor performance factors
  • Evaluate RAM availability and usage
  • Assess storage capacity and device types
  • Understand network speed metrics and troubleshooting methods

Processor Performance Criteria

  1. Processor Speed (Clock Speed)
    • Measured in GHz (Gigahertz)
    • Higher speeds → faster task execution
  2. Number of Cores
    • CPUs may have 2 to 64 cores
    • More cores allow parallel task execution
    • Related to Symmetric Multiprocessing (SMP)
  3. Bus Types and Speeds
    • Address bus: sends memory addresses
    • Data bus: carries data
    • Control bus: sends control signals
    • New standards: PCIe, HyperTransport, QPI
  4. Cache Memory
    • Stores frequently used data for quick access
    • Helps offset slower processing speeds

RAM (Random Access Memory)

  • Temporary memory used to run apps, load websites, and edit files
  • Measured in GB (Gigabytes)
  • When RAM is full:
    • Freezing, app crashes, blue screen, corrupted files

How to Check RAM in Windows:

  • Open Task Manager → Performance → Memory
  • Run Windows Memory Diagnostic for hardware issues

Storage Devices

Type Speed Notes
SSD Fastest Flash-based, expensive but reliable
HDD Moderate Traditional spinning disks
Hybrid Drives Balanced SSD for cache + HDD for storage
Flash Memory Varies Portable (e.g., USB, SD cards)

How to Check Disk Space:

  • Open This PC from taskbar search → View under "Devices and Drives"

Network Speed & Connectivity

  • Measured in Mbps or Gbps
  • Use tools like speedtest.net to evaluate performance

How to Check Link Speed:

  • Wi-Fi:
    • Click Wi-Fi icon → Properties → Link Speed
  • Ethernet:
    • Search Ethernet Settings in Windows → View under Properties

Summary of Key Points

  • Processor performance depends on speed, cores, bus type, and cache
  • RAM availability impacts stability and multitasking
  • SSD > Hybrid > HDD in terms of speed
  • Check storage and RAM usage directly in Windows tools
  • Use speed tests and network settings to assess connectivity issues

Workstation Evaluation and Setup

Learning Objectives

  • Identify a user’s computing environment and requirements
  • Evaluate computers based on hardware specifications
  • Perform basic workstation setup tasks

Step 1: Understanding the User’s Needs

Location

  • Office, home, mobile, or multi-site

Physical Conditions

  • Desk, chair, lighting, outlets, security options, accessibility accommodations

Connectivity

  • Wired for secure/confidential work
  • Wi-Fi for general office/home use
  • Cellular for mobile users

Data Storage Strategy

  • Local, onsite network, or hybrid cloud

Step 2: Hardware & Peripheral Needs

Component Considerations
RAM 8 GB (web-based users), 16 GB (standard), upgradeable (power users)
GPU Required for graphics, big data tasks
Storage Adequate for local files or cache use
Peripherals Keyboard, mouse, monitor, speakers, scanner, etc.
  • Understand the connection type for each peripheral (USB, Bluetooth, etc.)

Step 3: Device Selection Considerations

  • Desktops: Best performance, expandability
  • Laptops/2-in-1s: Mobility, space-saving
  • Evaluate:
    • User needs
    • Business requirements
    • Available technology
    • Budget constraints

Step 4: 6-Step Setup Process

  1. Reassess physical environment
  2. Unbox devices safely and read documentation
  3. Cable management
    • Use short cables
    • Bundle and label
  4. Electrical management
    • Use labeled power cables
    • Verify outlet amperage and accessibility
  5. Check ergonomics
    • Monitor and chair height, arm and foot position, lighting
  6. Configure workstation
    • OS settings: user login, keyboard, resolution
    • Printer, audio, network, browser
    • Remove bloatware
    • Install productivity software
    • Set up backup and security

Summary of Key Points

  • A user’s job function, location, and accessibility guide the device decision
  • The right hardware depends on task intensity (e.g., big data vs. email)
  • A proper workstation setup involves:
    • Environment check
    • Unboxing and cable setup
    • Ergonomic adjustments
    • System configuration

Introduction to Troubleshooting

Learning Objectives

  • Understand basic computer support concepts
  • Apply troubleshooting procedures
  • Use online and manufacturer support resources
  • Summarize the CompTIA Troubleshooting Model

Basic Troubleshooting Concepts

  1. Determine the Problem
    • Ask the user about recent changes
    • Reproduce the issue
    • Separate multiple problems
  2. Examine the Problem
    • Check for simple causes (e.g., unplugged cable)
    • Try multiple solutions
    • If needed, escalate the issue
  3. Solve the Problem
    • Create a plan, document steps
    • Repair, replace, or combine both
    • Confirm system functionality and finalize documentation

Common Computer Issues

  • Loose cables, power issues
  • BIOS or POST boot errors
  • Blue/black screen
  • OS problems or software crashes
  • Monitor/display not working

Diagnostic Checklist

  • Check for LEDs, power sounds
  • Beep codes (use internet for decoding)
  • Monitor connections
  • Peripheral cables

Support Resources

  • Search engines: Google, Bing, DuckDuckGo
  • Online forums, community knowledge bases
  • Manufacturer support pages and manuals
  • Prepare:
    • Device model, serial number
    • Purchase date
    • Issue description

CompTIA Troubleshooting Model

  1. Identify the Problem
    • Gather info, duplicate, ask users, isolate issues
  2. Research
    • Use knowledge bases or the internet
  3. Establish a Theory
    • Question the obvious, divide & conquer
  4. Test the Theory
    • Confirm or refine the theory
  5. Establish a Plan
    • Consider all potential side effects
  6. Implement the Solution
    • Escalate if necessary
  7. Verify Full System Functionality
    • Apply preventive measures
  8. Document Everything
    • Findings, steps, and outcomes

Summary of Key Points

  • Troubleshooting is a step-by-step support method
  • Start by identifying common, simple issues
  • Use online and manufacturer resources for help
  • Follow the CompTIA model for industry-standard troubleshooting

Advanced Microsoft Windows 10 Management and Utilities

Learning Objectives

  • Perform advanced workstation management tasks
  • Understand the role of drivers and how to update them
  • Identify and use five essential Windows utilities

1. Policy Management

  • Applies rules for:
    • Passwords & retry limits
    • Allowed programs
    • User configurations
  • Access via:
    • Search “Group Policy” in Taskbar
    • Edit group policy > User Configuration

2. Windows Task Manager

  • Monitor apps and background processes
  • Force quit with End Task
  • Useful when software is frozen or unresponsive

3. Device Manager

  • View and manage:
    • Hardware components
    • Interfaces (e.g., Intel ME Interface)
  • Check status, update drivers, view resource use
  • Useful for:
    • Driver issues
    • Firmware checks

4. Virtual Memory Management

  • Use Task Manager to check RAM usage
  • Open: Settings > Performance > Virtual Memory
  • Adjust manually for high-memory apps
  • Use Windows Memory Diagnostic for error checking

5. Service Management

  • For advanced control of background services:
    • Stop, restart, run, or ignore a service
    • Optionally restart the system
  • Helps resolve:
    • Unresponsive software
    • Resource bottlenecks

6. Drivers

  • Enable communication between hardware and OS
  • Symptoms of outdated drivers:
    • Devices not working
  • Use Device Manager > Right-click > Update Driver

7. Key Windows Utilities

Utility Function
Memory Diagnostics Detect hardware memory errors
Performance Monitor Monitor hardware and software performance
Event Viewer Log system activity, errors, and install issues
Registry Editor Modify program registration and disk location data
Task Manager View and manage running tasks and processes

Summary of Key Points

  • Group Policy improves device and data security
  • Task Manager and Device Manager are core tools for diagnosis
  • Drivers must be current for proper hardware communication
  • Windows provides built-in utilities for diagnostics and system management

Introduction to Business Continuity Principles

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the importance of business continuity
  • Evaluate a fault tolerance system
  • Explain the importance of disaster recovery planning

What is Business Continuity?

  • Business continuity: a plan to minimize disruption and maintain operations during difficult events
  • Built upon fault tolerance, which enables systems to run even if some components fail
  • Aims to prevent single points of failure

Redundancy: The Key to Continuity

Redundancy = Extra capacity or backup that protects against failure

Types of Redundancy:

  1. Data Redundancy
    • Same data exists in multiple locations (e.g., backups)
    • Risk: inconsistency
    • Solution: real-time syncing
  2. RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks)
    • RAID 0: Improved performance, no fault tolerance
    • RAID 1: Mirroring data for fault tolerance
    • RAID 5: Secure, requires minimum 3 HDDs
  3. Network Redundancy
    • Multiple paths and adapters
    • Load balancing across servers
  4. Site Redundancy
    • Entire backup site in case of total loss (e.g., natural disaster)
    • Uses replication to sync data across locations
  5. Power Redundancy
    • Two independent power sources
    • UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply) as cost-effective fallback

Backup Strategies

Backup Methods:

  • Full: All files
  • Incremental: Files changed since last full/incremental
  • Differential: Files changed since last full
  • Daily: Only today's changes

Backup Devices:

  • USB drives
  • External HDDs
  • LAN servers
  • Tape storage
  • Cloud-based storage

Key Considerations:

  • Cost: Hardware, software, training
  • Location: Cloud + additional physical site
  • Storage/time balance for effective recovery

Disaster Recovery

  • Plan to restore IT functionality after disruption
  • Must include:
    • Clear procedures
    • Scenario-specific strategies
    • Rapid execution and response

Summary of Key Points

  • Business continuity requires planning, redundancy, and disaster recovery
  • Fault tolerance systems avoid single-point failures
  • Backup strategies should align with business needs and resources
  • Disaster recovery plans restore IT operations after outages

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