CISC144 Introduction to Microsoft Desktop

Department of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics: Computer/Information Science

  1. Course Number and Title

    CISC144 Introduction to Microsoft Desktop
  2. Number of Credits

    4 credits
  3. Minimum Number of Instructional Minutes Per Semester

    3000 minutes
  4. Prerequisites

    CISC143 (C or better)

    Corequisites

    None
  5. Other Pertinent Information

    None
  6. Catalog Course Description

    This course will focus on the current Microsoft desktop version as the preferred corporate desktop operating system. It will explore the Microsoft networking family and the salient functions and features of installing, configuring, and maintaining the client operating system.
  7. Required Course Content and Direction

    1. Learning Goals:

      1. Course Learning Goals

      2. Students will be able to

        1. plan and perform disc based and over-the-network installation of the Microsoft desktop operating system;
        2. identify and configure the various types of file systems;
        3. create and administer various types of local user accounts and local group accounts;
        4. implement, manage, and troubleshoot disk devices, display devices, mobile computer hardware, and input and output devices; and
        5. update drives, monitor and configure multiple processing units, and install, configure and troubleshoot network adapters.

      3. Core Learning Goals (if applicable)


      4. This course is not included in the Core.
    2. Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities:

      1. Overview of Microsoft Desktop OS
        1. Reviewing the Features of Microsoft Desktop OS
        2. Comparing Server and Desktop OS
        3. Networking with Server
        4. Introduction to Network Domains, Sites, Active Directory

      2. Installing and Configuring
        1. Installation Requirements
        2. Planning an Installation
        3. Hardware Compatibility List (HCL)

      3. Using the MMC, Task Scheduler, Control Panel
        1. Snap-ins and Extensions
        2. Installing Hardware/Programs
        3. PCMCIA or PC Cards

      4. Managing File System and Storage
        1. File Storage Basics
        2. Disk Management
        3. Distributed File System (DFS)

      5. Users, Groups, Policies, Profiles
        1. Default Accounts
        2. Naming Conventions
        3. Local/Roaming Profiles
        4. Security Policies

      6. Security and Access Controls
        1. Customized Logon Process
        2. Domain Security Concepts
        3. Local Computer Policy

      7. Internetworking with Novell
        1. Review Client Issues
        2. Netware Compatibility Components
        3. Connecting to NetWare Resources

      8. Remote Access Services
        1. WAN Connectivity
        2. Telephony Features of RAS
        3. Installing and Configuring RAS

      9. Printing
        1. Print Subsystem Architecture
        2. Printer Driver Software
        3. Printing Process
        4. Installing/Configuring a Printer

      10. Performance Tuning
        1. Establishing a Baseline
        2. Monitoring and Tuning
        3. Recognizing Bottlenecks

      11. Troubleshooting and Disaster Protection
        1. General Principles of Troubleshooting
        2. Applying Service packs
        3. Microsoft IntelliMirror
        4. Backup Utility
    3. Assessment Methods for Core Learning Goals:

      1. Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals
      2. The assessment of Course Learning Goals is based on written tests, labs and other assignments, as well as performance-based tasks as appropriate.

      3. Assessment Methods for Core Learning Goals (if applicable)


      4. This course is not included in the Core.
    4. Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Students:

      Departmental selected textbook. Details provided by the instructor of each Course section. See course format.
  8. Teaching Methods Employed

    At least two hours per week will be devoted to presentation of text material and special projects. The remaining time will be used for extensive laboratory exercises and hands-on assignments.

    Section VIII is not being used in new and revised syllabi as of 12/10/08.

Review/Approval Date - 10/01; Revised 6/09