If you enjoy learning new things, are interested in computers, and like solving problems, you can become a computer expert. You don't have to worry if you don't have the opportunity to study at a university and study computer studies. You can master computer science by learning the basics of computer knowledge. You can do this by putting what you learn into practice, solving problems that come up when tinkering with your computer, and knowing how to find useful information.
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Method 1 of 6: Learning Hardware Basics
Step 1. Find and read computer books for beginners
Even if you're already used to using a computer, reading computer books for beginners can provide a wealth of information that you didn't already know. Go to the library and ask the librarian if there are computer books for beginners available. In addition, you can also visit the bookseller's website and search for books with the keyword "computers for beginners". Try looking for the following books:
- Any computer book from the “For Dummies” series, such as PCs for Dummies or Macs for Dummies.
- Computer Learning by Haer Talib.
- Computer Hardware by Bobi Kurniawan.
Step 2. Know the name of the computer hardware
To become a computer expert, you must understand how the parts of a computer are connected and work with each other.
- All computer hardware (hardware) is connected to the motherboard, including the CPU or processor that functions as the "brain" of the computer.
- RAM (random-access memory) stores data that is being used. Learn how RAM works and connects to the motherboard.
- Card-shaped hardware provides certain functions to the computer. Learn about sound cards, network cards, and graphics cards (video cards).
- Hard disks (hard drives) and storage devices (storage devices) are used to store data. Learn about hard disks, CD/DVD drives (CD/DVD-ROM drives), and portable storage devices, such as USB flash drives (USB flash drives) and SD (secure digital) cards.
Step 3. Visit a computer store and try testing the latest computer hardware
Each computer hardware specification should be listed on a label or sign placed near the computer. Note the difference in the amount of RAM, processor type and speed, and screen resolution.
- Try opening the same program on different computers and notice the difference in speed.
- Ask the seller which computers are recommended for certain jobs. For example, ask him "Which computer is good for playing games?" or "Which computer is enough for writing?". After getting the recommendations, take a look at the different hardware specifications for each different computer.
Step 4. Watch videos of people fiddling with computers on YouTube
Watch a computer expert install RAM or replace a damaged hard drive to find out how to get the job done. Listen carefully as he explains what is being done.
Step 5. Open the computer case and locate each piece of hardware
If you feel confident in your abilities, take a look inside your computer box to see how the hardware interfaces with other different pieces of hardware.
- If you're worried about making a mistake, ask someone more experienced to help you unbox the computer.
- Do not open the computer case if the computer is not on a solid surface and you are not using or wearing antistatic devices (tools used to reduce or stop electrical currents that can damage hardware).
Method 2 of 6: Using a Different Operating System and Software
Step 1. Learn the differences between different operating systems
Operating systems (operating system) Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, Chrome OS, and others have their own advantages and disadvantages. Visit the operating system's website to understand the features it offers. After that, look for blogs that specialize in their content for users of a particular operating system. Reading blogs can be a good way to find out how people use their computers.
- Almost all computers are usually equipped with Windows. The operating system is used for business purposes, such as servers and work stations (workstations or computers that are connected to a network and have high hardware specifications). Apart from that, Windows is a popular operating system used by both casual users and gamers who love to tinker with hardware.
- Mac OS X is known as an operating system that has an elegant design. The operating system became popular because it was used by many famous artists. Mac OS X is almost always built into Apple hardware and has a recognizable design that has earned it a reputation. This operating system can also be installed on modern computers.
- Linux is an operating system that can usually be obtained for free. The operating system has a design similar to the Unix operating system and is used by more advanced computer users. Linux is a secure operating system and can be modified as needed. Moreover, this operating system can be run on any hardware to perform various functions.
- Chrome OS is a simple operating system that comes preinstalled on Google's Chromebooks. The operating system is intended for people who are interested in surfing the internet and using web-based applications.
Step 2. Take every opportunity to tamper with an operating system that you don't have
To become an expert in various computer sciences, it is recommended that you have experience with all operating systems and various software.
- You can find Windows-based computers in the library. Many universities have computers based on Windows and Mac that students can use. In addition, you can also ask a friend or family member for permission to use their computer.
- Try doing the same thing, such as surfing websites, on a computer based on Windows, Linux, or Mac. After that, note the differences that appear on each computer.
Step 3. Learn about the operating system installed on your computer
Computers based on Windows and Mac come with a system panel that provides detailed information about the computer. Try to study and fiddle with Control Panel (for Windows) or System Preferences (for Mac) every day. By browsing computer systems and clicking on links to see the various options available, you will get a lot of information needed to become a computer expert.
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To open Control Panel on a Windows-based computer, press Win+S key to open the search field. After that, type
control panel
- in that column. Click the “Control Panel” option that appears in the search results. After that, take a look at the various options available in the Control Panel.
- To open System Preferences on a Mac-based computer, click the Apple button (the button shaped like the Apple logo) in the upper-left corner of the screen and click the “System Preferences” option.
Step 4. Install the new software
If it's your first time installing software, try installing a simple program, such as a browser. If you're used to installing software, try installing Linux. Linux is a free operating system that is popular among geeks (people who like and have a lot of knowledge about a field). These operating systems can be installed on many different hardware configurations.
Linux is a very popular operating system among computer lovers. Thus, you can find many Linux communities chatting frequently on forums. Learning Linux can help you make new friends and even mentors
Method 3 of 6: Gaining Higher Abilities
Step 1. Learn a programming language, such as Java, SQL, Ruby on Rails, or PHP
Once you understand the basics of programming languages, try learning more complex programming languages. Writing code is a computer expert skill that ordinary users don't have. Learn the use of each of the different programming languages and choose the programming language you want to learn.
- Get a book on programming languages. Reading programming language books for beginners can help you master the basics of programming languages and learn more complex programming languages.
- Look for courses that offer code writing training. You will have to spend more money to study at a well-known course that specializes in programming. However, sometimes you can get free lessons on the Coursera and Khan Academy websites.
Step 2. Create a computer network
Connecting a computer with an internet network is a simple thing. However, can you set up a network that connects multiple computers? Challenge yourself to learn the different ways of connecting your computer to the internet, sharing files over a computer network, and activating a firewall.
Step 3. Learn and protect yourself from threats that target your computer, code, and network
Knowing how to use and prepare for anything computer related is a good thing. However, these capabilities are not enough to protect computers from various threats. Learn things that commonly threaten computer security, such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDos) attacks, code vulnerabilities, database hacks, and viruses. This is done to prepare themselves to face various threats.
Step 4. Make friends with computer enthusiasts
Joining a community of computer experts or beginners can give you the opportunity to ask and answer questions. Plus, you'll make lots of friends who help you learn new technologies that catch your eye.
- Look for a computer-loving community that often gathers in the area where you live.
- Find a computer lover's forum that can be accessed every day.
Step 5. Dedicate your life to continuous learning
You can't become a computer expert in no time. Becoming a computer expert requires hard work, dedication, good problem-solving skills, and an enthusiasm for new information and knowledge.
- Technology will continue to evolve. As such, you should be constantly on the lookout for the latest information and knowledge. The information you know now may not be available for years to come. Expand your knowledge by reading computer magazines, following popular computer blogs, and learning about the latest software technologies.
- Upgrade (upgrade) your operating system to the latest operating system if available.
- Join a group for people who enjoy testing apps and operating systems that are in beta phase. When you join the group, you can be one of the first to test an application or operating system.
Method 4 of 6: Become an Expert Problem Solver
Step 1. Find the root of the problem
One way to demonstrate your computer skills is to solve computer-related problems. Problem solving is one of the most important skills to have in the information technology industry. If your computer is having problems, try to find the cause.
When looking for the root of the problem, try to draw specific conclusions, not general conclusions. For example, while repairing my mouse, instead of concluding that "The mouse isn't working," you should look for the root cause and draw specific conclusions, such as "When I plugged my mouse into a USB port, I saw the message "This IRQ is assigned". to the keyboard " on screen". Drawing specific conclusions can help you solve problems better
Step 2. Improve your ability to use Google
To become a computer expert, you must have good information retrieval skills. There are various techniques that can be applied when using Google. These techniques help you find accurate information.
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Put quotation marks (“) in front of and after keywords (type
“this IRQ is assigned to the keyboard”
no
this irq assigned to keyboard
- ). This is done to ensure that Google search results match your wishes.
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Use Google to find information on specific websites. If you're looking for information about wireless networks and want information from Microsoft.com, type
mouse problems site:microsoft.com
no
mouse problems microsoft
- .
- Filter search results by date by clicking the "Tools" option at the top of the search results. After that, replace the "Any time" option with another time range. This method can bring up more relevant search results because computer technology is always evolving.
Step 3. Look at the search results carefully
If the search results have appeared, you should not only see the search results on the first page. Try looking at the search results that are on another page. While the hardware manufacturer's website may appear on the first page of search results, information that solves a problem can usually be found in computer enthusiast forums.
If you use Google often, you can tell the difference between websites that have accurate information and those that don't. If the search results return web pages that do not have the information you need, the website is of no use to you
Step 4. Join forums to get information about problems experienced by other users
Don't be afraid to ask. However, we recommend that you use the search feature provided before asking by creating a new thread. This is done to prevent you from creating threads containing questions that may have been answered by forum users before.
Many online forums (network or online) do not allow you to use the search feature before creating an account
Step 5. Repair friends and family computers
Once you have mastered computer science and practiced solving computer-related problems, you can apply your knowledge. Ask people you know to see if they have any problems with their computers. If they have one, offer your services to repair their computer. If you're having trouble repairing your computer, try searching the internet for solutions. You will probably find people who have experienced the same problem. After that, try using the solutions you found on the internet.
Step 6. Get a backup computer
Computer experts learn to solve problems by tinkering with various computers. Instead of fiddling with the computer you use every day, get a spare computer or several different types of computers that you can use as test computers. That way, you can tinker with your computer without having to worry about damaging your only computer.
Method 5 of 6: Updating Your Own Computer
Step 1. Update the operating system
Make sure you are using the latest and greatest version of the operating system by updating the operating system. The computer operating system usually checks automatically for the latest updates or not.
Upgrading the operating system can make legacy software unavailable. While this can be frustrating, finding solutions to problems like these can improve your problem-solving skills
Step 2. Think about what you can do to improve computer performance
Consider the following questions: What annoys you about your computer? What are your computer's flaws that other people's computers don't have? After getting the answers to these questions, you should be able to determine the hardware or software that can improve the performance of your computer.
Step 3. Look for people who have the same computer specs as you on the forums
This is done to find out what they upgrade on their computer. Even if you decide not to upgrade your computer, you will learn a lot about the various configurations that can be applied to your computer.
Method 6 of 6: Learning A Lot About Specific Computer Topics
Step 1. Choose a specific computer topic that interests you
Are you interested in website designing? Make a video that looks amazing? Program in Python? Becoming an expert on a specific topic can be a great way to demonstrate your skills as a computer expert.
Step 2. Read articles on the topic of your choice online
Use your ability to use Google to find the latest articles on topics that interest you. In addition, we recommend that you do the following:
- Find and follow blogs that dedicate their content to the topic.
- Join forums for users who like the topic.
Step 3. Watch a video tutorial covering your chosen topic on YouTube
Are you interested in learning to create a WordPress website? Or do you want to repair a faulty motherboard component? You will find many guide videos for any topic on YouTube.
Step 4. Look for courses that offer study on your chosen topic
If you are studying at a university, check to see if there are courses that cover the topic. If you are not studying at a university, you can seek knowledge at a vocational high school. Vocational schools offer many subjects at a lower cost than universities.
- If you want to study at home, there are many online courses covering a wide range of topics.
- Some online courses even offer free lessons, such as the Khan Academy and Coursera websites. Also, you may be able to find lessons you like on YouTube.
Tips
- Bookmark websites that contain lots of useful information. That way, you can find it easily when you need it.
- Have a goal, such as building a website or creating a simple, useful program. Don't give up until you reach your target.
- Look for activities that require volunteers. By volunteering, you can directly apply the knowledge you have. You can teach children information technology lessons, become a computer technician at a non-governmental organization, or work at the local library.
