Modern IT Operations and Automation

This course introduces the essential components and concepts behind modern computing systems. Students learn how to identify, install, and troubleshoot hardware components such as CPUs, memory, storage devices, and power supplies. Topics include motherboard architecture, peripheral devices, display technologies, and internal/external ports. The course also explores binary and hexadecimal systems, basic circuitry, and system cooling techniques. Through practical labs, students gain confidence in assembling desktop systems, upgrading hardware, and using diagnostic tools to detect faults and optimize system performance.

Students develop a foundational understanding of computer networking, focusing on both theoretical models and hands-on configurations. Topics include the OSI and TCP/IP models, IP addressing, subnetting, routing principles, and switching operations. Students configure routers and switches, explore MAC addressing, and implement small office/home office (SOHO) networks. Wireless networking, network topologies, and cabling standards are covered in depth. The course also introduces network troubleshooting using diagnostic tools. Students apply basic security practices such as configuring firewalls and implementing encryption to ensure secure data transmission.

This course equips students with the skills to manage and support operating systems across various platforms. Students install, configure, and maintain Windows and Linux systems, while learning command-line operations, disk management, task scheduling, and user/group permissions. Emphasis is placed on remote access protocols, system logs, file systems, and administrative tools such as Group Policy and systemd. Through simulations and practical labs, students practice managing multi-user environments, resolving access conflicts, and optimizing system performance.

Students explore the technologies that enable modern cloud computing environments and virtualization platforms. Topics include IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS models, as well as virtual machine deployment, storage provisioning, and virtual networking. Students gain hands-on experience using platforms like VMware and Hyper-V, and are introduced to public cloud tools such as AWS and Microsoft Azure. The course emphasizes cost optimization, high availability, elasticity, and disaster recovery strategies in virtualized and hybrid infrastructures.

This course provides foundational knowledge of cybersecurity principles and tools. Students examine threats, vulnerabilities, malware, and data breaches, and learn strategies to protect systems through encryption, authentication, and access controls. The course covers endpoint protection, security policies, firewalls, and network segmentation. Students practice basic incident response, system hardening, and threat identification. Privacy legislation and cybersecurity ethics are discussed in the context of real-world scenarios.

Students are introduced to IT service delivery models and support systems aligned with ITIL best practices. They learn how to document and resolve incidents, manage service requests, and support users through helpdesk systems. Topics include asset management, escalation protocols, ticketing systems, and remote troubleshooting tools. Emphasis is placed on customer communication, teamwork, and professional conduct. Simulated helpdesk environments provide students with practice in resolving technical issues efficiently and empathetically.

Students explore the principles of relational databases and structured data management. The course covers SQL queries, schema design, normalization, indexing, and data integrity. Students perform CRUD operations, build simple databases, and manage access rights. Through practical exercises using platforms like MySQL or SQL Server, students develop the skills needed to query, manipulate, and maintain data for organizational use. Backup strategies and database security are also introduced.

This course introduces students to scripting languages such as Python and PowerShell to automate routine IT tasks. Topics include variables, loops, conditionals, functions, and error handling. Students write scripts to automate file management, system monitoring, and data parsing tasks. The course highlights the role of scripting in system administration, task scheduling, and configuration management. Students complete hands-on labs that showcase automation’s role in increasing IT operational efficiency.

This course focuses on developing written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills for IT contexts. Students learn to create technical documentation, prepare client communications, and deliver presentations on IT solutions. Topics include audience analysis, tone, professionalism, and collaboration tools. Students practice writing user manuals, emails, reports, and incident logs, and participate in simulations involving IT project communication and client interactions.

This course builds on foundational networking knowledge by introducing VLANs, VPNs, access control lists, and secure wireless deployment. Students configure and troubleshoot routers, switches, and firewalls, and learn to implement intrusion detection systems and segment networks for security. Practical labs involve penetration testing tools, threat mitigation strategies, and policy enforcement. Students also explore enterprise authentication methods and secure remote access protocols.

Students learn how to design and integrate enterprise systems using on-premise and cloud infrastructure. Topics include APIs, identity management, DNS, Active Directory, and hybrid cloud configuration. Students explore best practices for deploying scalable and secure systems using AWS or Azure, and implement fault-tolerant and loadbalanced designs. The course includes labs on cloud deployment automation and system orchestration using Infrastructure as Code (IaC) principles.

This course introduces frameworks such as COBIT, NIST, and ISO 27001 for governing IT operations. Students learn to conduct risk assessments, enforce compliance with regulatory standards like PIPEDA and GDPR, and document policies and controls. Topics include audit readiness, data governance, and IT ethics. Students engage in case studies and simulations to evaluate organizational maturity and create governance plans aligned with strategic business goals

In the capstone course, students apply the knowledge gained throughout the program in a final, hands-on project. Working individually or in teams, students plan, build, and document an integrated IT environment that incorporates cloud deployment, networking, system administration, and security components. Emphasis is placed on demonstrating troubleshooting, communication, and project management skills. Students present their completed project to a professional audience, reinforcing workplace readiness.