Certainly!

Here’s a complete and organized course outline for the **Cisco IT Essentials (Version 7 or
higher)**, structured for a **three-month program**. This outline includes clear sections, pacing, and
assessments.

# Cisco IT Essentials Course Outline

## Course Title:

**Cisco IT Essentials (Version 7 or higher)**

## Course Description:

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to computer hardware, software, networking, and
security concepts. Students will learn to assemble, configure, and troubleshoot computer systems, install
operating systems, and connect to networks. The course emphasizes hands-on labs and virtual learning
tools to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for entry-level IT positions.

## Target Audience:

- Individuals seeking entry-level IT positions (e.g., help desk technician, PC technician).

- Students interested in pursuing IT certifications (e.g., CompTIA A+).

- Anyone wanting to gain a foundational understanding of computer technology.

## Prerequisites:

Basic computer literacy is recommended.

## Course Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

- Identify and explain the components of a computer system.

- Assemble a computer system.

- Install and configure operating systems (Windows, Linux, mobile OS).

- Troubleshoot hardware and software problems.

- Understand basic networking concepts.

- Implement basic security measures.

- Explain virtualization and cloud computing concepts.

- Configure and troubleshoot mobile devices and printers.

## Course Duration:

**3 Months** (approximately 12 weeks)

## Course Outline and Pacing Schedule:

### Month 1: Computer Hardware Fundamentals & Assembly

#### Week 1: Introduction to the Personal Computer & Lab Procedures

- **Topics:**

- Module 1: The Modern PC

- Module 2: Lab Procedures and Tool Use

- **Focus:**

- Identifying PC components, understanding their functions.

- Safe lab practices and tool usage (ESD strap, multimeter).

- **Activities:**

- Hands-on component identification.

- Tool familiarization labs.

- **Assessment:**

- Quiz on Modules 1 & 2.

#### Week 2: Computer Assembly (Part 1)

- **Topics:**
 - Module 3: Computer Assembly (Sections 3.1 – 3.4)

- **Focus:**

- Planning a build, ensuring component compatibility.

- Proper installation techniques for CPU, RAM, Motherboard.

- **Activities:**

- Practice installing components on a trainer board or in a virtual environment.

#### Week 3: Computer Assembly (Part 2)

- **Topics:**

- Module 3: Computer Assembly (Sections 3.5 – 3.6)

- **Focus:**

- Cable management, connecting power/data cables.

- Understanding BIOS/UEFI; performing the initial system boot.

- **Activities:**

- Complete computer assembly lab; boot and navigate the BIOS/UEFI.

- **Assessment:**

- Practical exam on computer assembly.

#### Week 4: Operating Systems (Fundamentals)

- **Topics:**

- Module 4: Operating Systems

- **Focus:**

- The role of the OS, user interfaces, preparing for OS installation (partitioning/formatting).

- **Activities:**

- Practice partitioning/formatting a virtual drive; explore different OS interfaces.

### Month 2: Operating Systems, Networking, and Mobile Devices

- **Topics:**

- Module 4: OS Installation, File Systems, Upgrades, Maintenance

- **Focus:**

- Installing Windows/Linux; understanding file systems (NTFS/FAT32).

- **Activities:**

- Install an OS in a virtual machine; perform basic OS configuration tasks.

#### Week 6: Advanced Operating Systems & Introduction to Networking

- **Topics:**

- Module 5: Advanced Operating Systems & Module 6: Networking Concepts (Sections 6.1 – 6.3)

- **Focus:**

- OS security; command-line interface; virtualization basics; how networks work.

- **Activities:**

- Explore command line; set up a simple virtual machine; practice cable crimping.

#### Week 7: Networking (TCP/IP, Wireless, Cloud)

- **Topics:**

- Module 6: Networking Concepts (Remaining sections)

- **Focus:**

- TCP/IP fundamentals; understanding wireless technologies; overview of cloud computing models.

- **Activities:**

- Configure TCP/IP settings on a virtual machine; connect to a wireless network.

#### Week 8: Applied Networking (IP Addressing)

- **Topics:**

- Module 7: Applied Networking

- **Focus:**

- Understanding IP address structure; subnetting basics; configuring network settings.

- Practice subnetting calculations; configure network settings in a lab environment.

- **Assessment:**

- Practical exam on network configuration.

### Month 3: Security, Peripherals, Troubleshooting, and Communication

#### Week 9: Security Fundamentals

- **Topics:**

- Module 8: Security Threats, Procedures

- **Focus:**

- Identifying security threats; implementing security procedures; password policies.

- **Activities:**

- Create strong passwords; explore encryption methods.

- **Assessment:**

- Quiz on Modules covered in Weeks 7 &8.

#### Week 10: Security (Firewalls, Malware) & Mobile Devices

- **Topics:**

- Module 8 (Remaining sections) & Module 9

- **Focus:**

- Configuring firewalls; understanding malware types; securing mobile devices.

- **Activities:**

- Configure a firewall; scan for malware; explore mobile device security settings.

#### Week 11: Printers, Virtualization/Cloud & Troubleshooting

- **Topics:**

- Modules on Printers & Virtualization/Cloud Computing & Troubleshooting Basics

- Printer types/installation/maintenance; troubleshooting hardware/OS issues.

- **Activities:**

- Install a printer; explore cloud services; practice troubleshooting common problems.

#### Week12: Troubleshooting Networks & Communication Skills

- **Topics:**

- Troubleshooting Networks & Security & Communication Skills

- **Focus:**

- Troubleshooting network/security issues; developing effective communication/customer service skills.

## Assessment Summary:

* Quizzes at the end of most weeks to assess understanding of material.

* Practical Exams for Computer Assembly and Network Configuration.

* Midterm Exam after Month One (optional).

* Final Exam covering all course material comprehensively.

* Lab Participation based on active engagement in hands-on activities.

* Communication Skills Evaluation through role-playing or presentations.

## Materials:

* Cisco IT Essentials Curriculum (official course materials)

* Access to computers with necessary hardware components

* Tools for computer assembly and repair

* Internet access

### Important Considerations:

* Adjust pacing based on student needs and progress throughout the course.
* Ensure adequate time/resources are available for hands-on labs that reinforce essential skills.

* Incorporate real-world troubleshooting scenarios to enhance learning relevance.

* Align content with specific version of Cisco IT Essentials curriculum being used.

This organized outline should provide clarity on the structure of the Cisco IT Essentials course over three
months. Good luck with your teaching!