
Skills you'll gain: Operating System Administration, Virtualization, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Peripheral Devices, Computing Platforms, Hardware Architecture, Computer Hardware, Mac OS, System Configuration, Hardware Troubleshooting, Operating Systems, Technical Support, Linux, Computer Architecture, Disaster Recovery, File Systems, Software Installation, User Accounts, Data Storage, Network Infrastructure
★ 4.7 (2.1K) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of California, Irvine
Skills you'll gain: Network Security, Computer Hardware, Hardware Architecture, Computer Systems, TCP/IP, Information Technology, Networking Hardware, System Software, General Networking, OSI Models, Computer Literacy, Network Protocols, Operating Systems, System Configuration, Software Installation, Security Software, Computer Networking, Software Systems, Intranet, Data Storage
★ 4.6 (293) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Princeton University
Skills you'll gain: Microarchitecture, Computer Architecture, Memory Management, Hardware Architecture, Systems Architecture, Distributed Computing, Performance Tuning, Scalability
★ 4.7 (3.9K) · Advanced · Course · 3 - 6 Months

Johns Hopkins University
Skills you'll gain: Hardware Design, Electronic Hardware, Schematic Diagrams, Electronics, Computer-Aided Design, Electronic Systems, Mechanical Design, Drafting and Engineering Design, Communication Systems, Electronics Engineering, Remote Access Systems, 3D Modeling, Linux, Digital Communications, Restful API, Electrical Engineering, Web Applications, Systems Of Measurement, Digital Signal Processing, Data Processing
★ 4.8 (104) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of California, Irvine
Skills you'll gain: Test Planning, Linux, Embedded Systems, Electronics, Internet Of Things, Embedded Software, Network Protocols, User Requirements Documents, Functional Specification, Electronic Components, Functional Requirement, OSI Models, Basic Electrical Systems, Electronic Hardware, Linux Commands, Operating Systems, Debugging, Application Programming Interface (API), TCP/IP, Python Programming
★ 4.7 (21K) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

IBM
Skills you'll gain: Email Security, Cloud Infrastructure, Cloud Platforms, Technical Support, Technical Support and Services, Cloud Computing, Relational Databases, Cloud Computing Architecture, Hardware Troubleshooting, Operating System Administration, IT Service Management, Cloud Services, Cloud Development, Cloud Deployment, General Networking, Database Architecture and Administration, Professional Networking, Information Technology, Database Administration, Customer Service
★ 4.7 (13K) · Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Hardware Troubleshooting, Computer Hardware, Digital Transformation, Network Troubleshooting, Technical Support, Technical Support and Services, Networking Hardware, Servers, Network Security, Server Administration, Data Security, Hardware Architecture, System Configuration, IT Infrastructure, Data Storage Technologies, Data Storage, Computer Networking
★ 4.9 (22) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Power Electronics, Control Systems, Electronic Systems, USB, Simulation and Simulation Software, Simulations, Engineering Documentation, Electrical Engineering, Semiconductors, Electrical Power, Engineering Design Process, Electronics, Electrical Systems, Electronic Components, Hardware Design, Technical Communication, Electronics Engineering, electromagnetics, Electric Power Systems, System Requirements
★ 4.7 (4.3K) · Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Microsoft
Skills you'll gain: Computer Hardware, Generative AI, Hybrid Cloud Computing, Systems Administration, Generative Model Architectures, Enterprise Application Management, Hardware Architecture, IT Infrastructure, Cloud Computing, Operating Systems, Data Storage Technologies, Patch Management, Computer Systems, Servers, System Software, Business Software, OS Process Management, Computer Architecture, Security Controls, Cybersecurity
★ 4.8 (1.1K) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Hardware Architecture, Computer Hardware, General Networking, Network Troubleshooting, Hardware Troubleshooting, Computer Architecture, Computer Networking, OSI Models, Cloud Infrastructure, Network Administration, Wireless Networks, Networking Hardware, Local Area Networks, Virtual Machines, Virtualization, Cloud Computing, Technical Support, Cloud Deployment, Wide Area Networks, Network Security
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Johns Hopkins University
Skills you'll gain: Artificial Neural Networks, Image Analysis, Event-Driven Programming, Scalability, Applied Machine Learning, Deep Learning, C and C++, Memory Management, Performance Tuning, C++ (Programming Language), Digital Signal Processing, Linear Algebra, Distributed Computing, Hardware Architecture, Programming Principles, Computer Architecture, System Programming, Program Development, OS Process Management, Machine Learning
★ 3 (218) · Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Embedded Software, Embedded Systems, Debugging, Data Structures, System Programming, Microarchitecture, C (Programming Language), Memory Management, Hardware Architecture, Computer Architecture, Software Design, Maintainability, System Configuration, Code Reusability, Data Storage, Peripheral Devices
★ 4.5 (532) · Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Top-rated Hardware courses offered by IBM on Coursera.
Earn a certificate in Hardware from top universities and companies.
Top-rated beginner-friendly Hardware courses with no prerequisites.
Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer or electronic system, including devices such as processors, memory, storage, and peripherals. Understanding hardware is crucial because it forms the backbone of all technology we use today, from personal computers to complex data centers. As technology continues to evolve, knowledge of hardware becomes increasingly important for troubleshooting, building, and optimizing systems.
A variety of job opportunities exist in the hardware field. Positions range from hardware engineers and technicians to roles in technical support and quality assurance. Specific jobs include computer hardware engineer, network technician, and embedded systems developer. These roles often require a blend of technical skills and problem-solving abilities, making them essential in industries such as IT, telecommunications, and manufacturing.
There are several excellent online courses available for those interested in hardware. For instance, Computer Hardware and Software provides foundational knowledge, while Core 1: Hardware and Network Troubleshooting focuses on practical troubleshooting skills. For those interested in specific applications, Designing Hardware for Raspberry Pi Projects offers hands-on experience.
Yes. You can start learning hardware on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in hardware, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
To learn hardware effectively, start by identifying your specific interests within the field, such as computer architecture or embedded systems. Enroll in relevant online courses, participate in hands-on projects, and seek out community forums for support. Practical experience, such as building or repairing hardware, can significantly enhance your understanding and skills.
Typical topics covered in hardware courses include computer architecture, circuit design, hardware troubleshooting, and the interaction between hardware and software. Courses often explore specific hardware components, such as CPUs, memory, and storage devices, as well as practical applications like network configurations and embedded systems.
For training and upskilling employees in hardware, courses like Dell Technologies Technical Support for Hardware and Hardware and Operating System Foundations I are particularly beneficial. These courses provide practical skills and knowledge that can be directly applied in the workplace, enhancing overall team performance.