Google IT Support Professional Certificate Course Syllabus

Overview: This comprehensive certificate program from Google, available on Coursera, is designed to equip learners with foundational IT support skills essential for entry-level tech roles. The course spans approximately 126 hours across five core modules and one final project, offering a practical, hands-on approach to real-world IT challenges. Learners will gain proficiency in computer systems, networking, operating systems, system administration, and IT security, with additional insights into AI tools for productivity. Developed by Google, this program is ideal for career changers or those launching into IT support roles in diverse industries.

Module 1: Technical Support Fundamentals

Estimated time: 22 hours

• Introduction to the world of IT support
• Understanding computer hardware and software components
• How the internet works and its core protocols
• Troubleshooting principles and customer service best practices

Module 2: The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking

Estimated time: 24 hours

• Networking concepts and network topologies
• Understanding protocols and the OSI model
• Cloud computing fundamentals and services
• Practical network troubleshooting techniques

Module 3: Operating Systems and You: Becoming a Power User

Estimated time: 28 hours

• Introduction to operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
• System management and command-line tools
• Hardware configuration and resource management
• User and software management in OS environments

Module 4: System Administration and IT Infrastructure Services

Estimated time: 24 hours

• Managing IT infrastructure services
• Directory services and user management
• Configuring and managing cloud resources
• Supporting computers and users in business settings

Module 5: IT Security: Defense Against the Digital Dark Arts

Estimated time: 28 hours

• Introduction to IT security principles
• Tools and best practices for threat protection
• Network and data security strategies
• Encryption algorithms and security protocols

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Diagnose and resolve simulated IT support issues
• Configure and manage a virtual operating system environment
• Implement security and networking solutions in a capstone scenario

Prerequisites

• Basic computer literacy
• No prior IT experience required
• Access to a computer with internet connection

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Provide technical support in help desk or IT support roles
• Configure, manage, and troubleshoot operating systems
• Set up and maintain computer networks and cloud services
• Implement IT security best practices to protect systems
• Use AI tools to improve efficiency in IT support tasks