Operating System Foundations

Infosec via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/operating-system-foundations

Introduction

### Course Review: Operating System Foundations on Coursera In an era where technology underpins almost every aspect of our lives, having a solid understanding of operating systems (OS) is essential. The **Operating System Foundations** course offered on Coursera aims to demystify the various operating systems we interact with daily, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. This course not only provides a foundational understanding of what constitutes an operating system but also delves into their evolution and technical components, making it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to bolster their technological expertise. #### Course Overview At its core, the **Operating System Foundations** course is designed for learners who may confuse operating systems with other software or platforms, such as browsers. The course clarifies what operating systems truly are and explores the unique characteristics and functionalities of the major players in the OS market. By comparing Windows, Linux, and macOS, students gain a comprehensive understanding of how these systems differ and the historical context behind their development. #### Syllabus Highlights The course is structured to guide learners step-by-step through different foundational elements of operating systems: - **Operating System Foundations**: This introductory module lays the groundwork for understanding operating systems, offering insights into their purpose and function. The course delves into the distinctions between the various systems and provides a brief history of their evolution, which is crucial for grasping how OS design has been shaped by user needs and technological advancements. - **Windows Command Line Foundations**: Building on the knowledge of OS, this module introduces learners to the Windows command line through hands-on exercises. While the goal isn’t to turn students into command-line experts, it does equip them with enough confidence to navigate command-line interfaces, thereby preparing them for environments where command-line skills are necessary. - **Linux Command Line Foundations**: Transitioning to Linux, this part of the syllabus immerses students into the Linux command line. It emphasizes practical skills and syntax, crucial for roles in cybersecurity and IT. For those aiming for positions like penetration tester or cybersecurity analyst, this module is particularly beneficial. - **Pen Test Demo**: To cap off the learning experience, the course includes a walkthrough of a typical penetration test. This practical demonstration bridges the gap between abstract concepts and real-world application, providing learners with a peek into daily cybersecurity operations. #### Learning Experience The course is highly structured, with clear learning objectives for each module, making it accessible for beginners while still engaging for those with some prior knowledge. The instructional design incorporates a mix of theoretical discussions and practical exercises, ensuring that learners not only acquire knowledge but also gain hands-on experience. The course is well-reviewed for its clarity and comprehensiveness, and students appreciate the instructor’s ability to break down complex topics into understandable segments. The inclusion of practical exercises, particularly in the command line foundations, allows learners to build confidence in using these critical tools. #### Recommendation I highly recommend the **Operating System Foundations** course for anyone interested in gaining a thorough understanding of operating systems and their functionalities. Whether you are a complete novice wanting to start your journey into the tech world or a professional looking to sharpen your skills, this course serves as an excellent stepping stone. Furthermore, for those considering careers in cybersecurity, the additional modules on command line foundations and penetration testing are invaluable. They not only provide essential skills but also prepare learners for the nuanced challenges faced in tech roles. In conclusion, this course is an excellent investment in your education, equipping you with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for navigating the technological landscape. Enroll now on Coursera and take your first step towards mastering operating systems!

Syllabus

Operating System Foundations

This is an introductory course to what an actual operating system is. People often confuse operating systems with browsers and many other things. We talk about the differences in the operating systems, Linux, Windows and MacOS, and how they came to be.

Windows Command Line Foundations

This course is an introduction to the Windows command line and includes hands-on exercises. The goal is not to make the learner a command-line master, but to provide an introduction that will make the student comfortable with bootcamps requiring command-line entry.

Linux Command line Foundations

This course gets the learner right into the thick of the command line from the Linux perspective and is designed to get the learner started on using Linux and the Linux command line. We spend time building students' confidence with the Linux command line so that really in-depth boot camps won't leave the learner struggling with topics like syntax. This course is an important step if you plan on pursuing a role such as entry-level pentester, cybersecurity analyst or basically any technical cybersecurity role.

Pen Test Demo

This course is a walkthrough of a typical penetration test. We end the course with a peek into the real world of a cybersecurity job role, as penetration testing is one of the expertise areas of the instructor.