An operating system is the foundation for all the software programs on a computer. The OS serves as a primary center and helps manage software and hardware. It acts as a bridge between the computer’s hardware and the user. The users can engage with the machine only when they have a solid understanding of all the components. Hence, they must engage in one of the best operating system courses.
| The US Bureau of Labor Statistics research confirms that computer support specialist jobs will grow 6 percent by 2033. Many such positions will demand a solid understanding of the US. |
OS has a crucial role in multiple aspects of computing. It can help distribute resources to the programs, such as storage devices, CPUs, and memory, enabling seamless functioning. OS also helps manage the software program’s execution. It prioritizes the tasks to ensure the applications are not conflicting. OS also comes with various security measures, such as access control and user authentication. These safeguard the system from harmful applications and unwarranted access. OS also controls the peripheral devices, such as network adapters, scanners, and printers. Such devices enable data transmission and communication.
Moreover, OS offers a UI that makes it easier for users to interact with their computers. Lastly, UI allows the users to manage files and directories, launch apps, and access system services. Given the many benefits of OS, users need to be well-acquainted with it. So, for this, the users must consider enrolling in one of the OS courses or reading books on OS.
Many of these courses online are free, while you can also find a couple of paid OS courses too. In this guide, we will take you through some of the affordable free online operating system courses.
Let us get started.
Free Operating System Courses Online
Here’s a quick comparison recap for all six courses
| Course Title | Duration | Certification Value | Instructor Expertise | Hands-on Projects/Assessments |
| Operating Systems: Principles and Practice [Udemy] | 46 minutes | Basic certificate | 3 Associate Professors from SRMIST-KTR | Theoretical and practical concepts |
| Basics of Operating System [Udemy] | 1 hr 50 min | Basic certificate | Pradeep Mohan Kumar (PhD, 15 years teaching) | Multiple projects and assessments |
| Advanced Linux: The Linux Kernel [LinkedIn] | 4 hours | Advanced certificate (LinkedIn) | Kevin Dankwardt (Software Engineer & Trainer) | Multiple assessments |
| Windows 10 Essential Training [LinkedIn] | 3 hr 25 min | Shareable certification (LinkedIn) | Nick Brazzi (Experienced Trainer) | Quiz and assessments |
| Introduction to Hardware and OS [Coursera] | 15 hours | Professional certificate (IBM) | IBM experts | Multiple hands-on projects |
| Introduction to Computers and OS and Security [Coursera] | 15 hours | Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate | Microsoft experts | Part of a series, with hands-on learning |
Best Free Online Operating System Courses
1. Operating Systems: Principles and Practice – [Udemy]
It is a newly listed course on Udemy by Jothi Kumar C, Dr. B. Arthi, and Dr. Aruna. All three of them are associate professors at SRMIST – KTR. So, they have a long-standing experience teaching students.
The course comprises all the latest insights on the OS. Enrolled by 176 students, this brief course demands elementary programming knowledge. It includes 46 minutes of video sessions comprising practical and theoretical concepts. So, students will learn how OS functions and how it is implemented and designed. It is one of the best short, free online operating system courses for students hoping to specialize in:
- Software engineering
- Cybersecurity
- System-level programming
What will you learn?
- In-depth understanding of OS, their fundamentals, and architecture
- Understanding process management, including scheduling, creation, communication, and synchronization
- Core components and principles of OS, such as file systems, memory management, and I/O systems
- Learning memory segmentation, paging, virtual memory, and allocation.
- Getting well-acquainted with the mechanisms for shielding the system and user data
- Learning about multitasking, threading, and deadlock experience
- Exploring file management, storage functions, and system organization
- Studying the I/O device drivers, management, and principles
- Foundational knowledge to contribute to and understand the development of modern OS.
Why this course?
It is one of the most popular free online operating system courses. The class comprehensively covers everything you must know about OS and its fundamentals in a very brief duration.
Who Should Take This Course?
Students with elementary programming knowledge interested in OS fundamentals.
Industry Application
Software engineering, cybersecurity, and system-level programming.
2. Basics of Operating System – [Udemy]
It is a top-rated free online operating system course with a solid rating of 4.7. Enrolled by 521 students, the course comprises 1hr 50min of on-demand video by Pradeep Mohan Kumar. Pradeep completed his Ph.D in Computer Science and Engineering and holds over 15 years of experience in teaching at different Engineering colleges. So, he has the techniques and the tricks to impart the most complex knowledge straightforwardly.
All students, regardless of prior experience, will benefit from this class.
What will you learn?
- Basics of OS, its design, and implementation
- Knowledge of kernel working procedure
- Understanding of memory and process management
- Goals of an OS and some successful or not-so-successful designs
Why this course?
It is one of the most highly acclaimed courses on Udemy, with a solid rating of 4.7.
Who Should Take This Course?
Beginners with or without prior OS experience looking to understand OS basics.
Industry Application
Entry-level software development, IT support, and systems administration.
Reviews
Prameela T.
It was a great course.
Manish Y.
Good
3. Advanced Linux: The Linux Kernel – [LinkedIn Learning]
Presented by Kevin Dankwardt, it is one of the advanced free online operating system courses. It will offer a detailed insight into the Kernel fundamentals. Kevin has been consulting, training, and working as a software engineer and software architect for several years.
The class spans over 4 hours and combines practical and theoretical learning. The session has multiple assessments to check how well you understand the text.
What will you learn?
- Understand the role and structure of the Linux kernel.
- Survey and control hardware using kernel mechanisms.
- Master system call mechanics and kernel messaging.
- Configure bootloader and kernel parameters.
- Work with Loadable Kernel Modules (LKMs).
- Examine and navigate the Linux kernel source code.
- Configure, build, and install your own Linux kernel.
Why this course?
Every Linux professional must be well-versed in Linux Kernel functionality and the mechanics of troubleshooting and configuring it.
Who Should Take This Course?
Linux professionals or enthusiasts looking to master Linux kernel functionality.
Industry Application
Linux system administration, software engineering, and embedded systems.
Reviews
Sarah Corbett-Imeny
Yes ,but if there where a picture that shows the functionality between the parts ,where they come is and where their job finishes , it could be nice . For example I do not know if the boot loader is the main actor or the other modules can directly contact the Core ? Something like that . and thanks
Reviews
Ruchir Malhotra
Great for a start to Linux kernel. Need more details for Advanced Level
4. Windows 10 Essential Training – [LinkedIn Learning]
Curated by Nick Brazzi, this LinkedIn course is meant for beginner and advanced-level students. It is a 3-hour 25-minute session that can help you get well-acquainted with Windows 10 OS. This course will benefit anyone and everyone curious to comprehend Windows 10 features or those new to the domain.
What will you learn?
- Operating system basics, such as managing files and folders
- Working with the email, contacts, and calendar
- Set up and personalize your Windows 10 experience.
- Understand account management and system settings.
- Installing apps for the Microsoft Store
- Launch, manage, and customize applications.
- Navigate File Explorer for efficient file and folder management.
- Organize your desktop and modify visual settings.
- Utilize bundled applications, including Office apps, Edge, and more.
- Manage mail, calendar, and contacts with built-in apps.
- Install, manage, and troubleshoot applications.
- Explore backup solutions and data sharing across devices.
- Modifying display preferences and account settings
- Optimize your workflow with Cortana and Windows Search.
Why this course?
In this LinkedIn’s one of the most-loved free online operating system certification courses, you will earn a shareable certification. It can amplify your chances of landing your dream job in the domain.
Who Should Take This Course?
Anyone looking to get acquainted with Windows 10, including new users and advanced learners.
Industry Application
IT support, personal computing, and office management.
Reviews
Olayinka Akeem
Interactive and more quiz is required.
Robert Gaither
There are good points, and the instructor does an excellent job, but this course may not be completely needed for an experienced Windows 10 user.
5. Introduction to Hardware and Operating Systems – Created by IBM – [Coursera]
It is a highly rated Coursera course with a 4.8 rating. Ninety-seven percent of students who took this session appreciate it. Both computer hardware and IT professionals who aspire to start a career in tech will benefit from it.
Your instructors will be experts at IBM. Learning from these professionals will be enriching and enlightening at the same time.
What will you learn?
- Understanding of OS fundamentals
- Recognizing laptop and desktop hardware devices and components
- Explaining the basic workstation setup, identifying good troubleshooting, and locating OS settings
- Describing and identifying laptop and desktop computer components, peripherals, and interfaces
Why this course?
Presented by IBM instructors, this class gives you job-relevant skills with many hands-on projects. Moreover, this free session will grant you a certification upon completion. You can share it on your LinkedIn or include it in your CV to amplify your chances of getting hired. This class is part of a series designed to equip you with the knowledge needed for certification exams. It specifically helps you prepare for the CompTIA ITF+ and A+ certification exams.
Who Should Take This Course?
IT professionals and aspiring hardware or software engineers
Industry Application
Computer hardware, IT support, and systems administration
Reviews
KB
Very helpful course. It helps me a lot to understand concepts of Hardware and Operating System.
FT
Very organized, steps by steps and easy to follow. I have learned so much from this class. great class and great teachers, guidelines.
6. Introduction to Computers and Operating Systems and Security – Created by Microsoft – [Coursera]
Last on our list is a beginner-friendly course by Microsoft. So, authenticity and superior information are guaranteed. It is a part of the Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate. While the class is taught in English, you can find it in multiple languages. Over 82,745 students have already enrolled for this session, and 98% of them hugely appreciated it.
Upon enrolling in this 15-hour class, you also get enrolled in the Professional Certificate. The course comprises four modules.
What will you learn?
- Skills related to OS and Computers
- Identifying various computer system components
- Getting acquainted with security systems
- Learning cybersecurity basics
- Fundamentals of Generative AI
- Understanding how different computer components interact with the OS
Why this course?
Those interested in cybersecurity but still need to figure out how and where to start will love this class. It is part of a series of courses that serve as a brilliant starting point for a career in cybersecurity. You can further advance your knowledge in the subject with these cybersecurity courses. Also, it is an excellent course to prepare for the Microsoft SC-900 exam.
Who Should Take This Course?
Beginners interested in cybersecurity or preparing for certification exams.
Industry Application
Cybersecurity, IT support, and information systems.
Reviews
RB
Great presenter, information delivered in a concise and organized manner with excellent summaries and recaps.
CJ
This course was refreshing and rewarding. I don’t think I have ever done a course more digestable this this. 8 more to go.
Bottom Line
So, these are the top six free online OS courses. Though free, they are still comprehensive and highly rated. These courses can help you gain all the necessary knowledge to progress in the field.
