vcc.ca
CSTP 1120: Introduction to Computer Systems
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Computer Systems Tech Diploma
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
Students learn the hardware and software of personal computer (PC) systems. Students learn the functionalities of different PC peripheral components. They learn how to install, connect, configure and troubleshoot peripheral components by following safety and operational procedures.
Students learn the fundamentals of Operating Systems (OS). They acquire skills for installing and configuring PCs and other devices in business environments. Topics include OS architecture, file and disk management, BIOS and UEFI, multi-boot, virtual machines, software installation and removal, performance tuning, data protection and back up, and troubleshooting. Networking, security, antivirus and firewalls are also covered.
This course also covers process scheduling, virtual memory, signals and interrupts, and application management under OS.
This course follows the CompTIA A+ certification syllabus and prepares students for the exam. However, writing the exam is not part of the course.
Credits
3.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Explain the functionalities of PC hardware components
- Troubleshoot common hardware and software issues using diagnostic tools and techniques.
- Describe the principles and functions of an operating system.
- Understand virtualization concepts and install/configure virtual machines.
- Plan, install, and configure operating systems, including Windows and Linux.
- Perform disk management and manage data access.
- Manage system performance and resource allocation to optimize efficiency.
- Configure and maintain user accounts and permissions in a multi-user environment.
- Implement and manage system backup and recovery strategies.
- Configure and enforce security settings to enhance system protection and mitigate vulnerabilities.
- Explain fundamental networking concepts.
- Use Windows Control Panel items for system configuration.
- Utilize command-line interfaces (CLI) for system administration.
- Administer Windows services.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Assessment methods include interview, exam and lab demos.
Students will receive an ‘S’ grade (satisfactorily completed) which is not included in grade GPA calculations.
International Students should contact the VCC International Education Advising to learn how PLAR can impact immigration status, prior to proceeding with the PLAR request.
Students will receive an ‘S’ grade (satisfactorily completed) which is not included in grade GPA calculations.
International Students should contact the VCC International Education Advising to learn how PLAR can impact immigration status, prior to proceeding with the PLAR request.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 30
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 30
Total Hours: 60
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 30
Total Hours: 60
Instructional Strategies
Instructional strategies include classroom lectures, demonstrations, group discussions, computer labs and hands-on practical work.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
C
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Lab Work |
40 |
Weekly hands-on lab exercises |
|
Midterm Exam |
20 |
Theoretical questions |
|
Other |
20 |
Hands-on practical exam conducted in the lab |
|
Final Exam |
20 |
Theoretical questions |
Course topics
- Computer hardware components
- Operating Systems: Windows and Linux
- Operation System configuration
- Storage and data access, backup, and restore
- Security setting
- Linux desktop operating system management using shells
- Computer network and firewall configuration
- Process and application management
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.