Code.org · IT basics
CPU, memory, input & output
See how a computer takes input, processes information, stores data and produces output.
Watch on YouTube (opens a new tab)Shelley's IT Solutions — IT learning
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IT essentials
Information technology (IT) is the use of computers, software and networks to store, process and share information. It includes everyday tasks such as creating documents, communicating online and keeping data organised. Explore IT topics.
Start with computer hardware and software, then explore networks and basic web development. Watch a short tutorial, make notes and practise one task at a time. Start with the video tutorials.
Use a different strong password for each account, enable two-step verification and keep your software updated. Check unexpected messages carefully, avoid unknown downloads and back up important work. Read the online safety guide.
Featured IT videos
All tutorials →Code.org · IT basics
Hardware & software
Explore how physical components and programs work together to run your computer.
Watch on YouTube (opens a new tab)Code.org · IT basics
Wires, cables & Wi-Fi
Discover how electrical signals, light and radio waves carry data between devices.
Watch on YouTube (opens a new tab)Discover IT equipment
Everyday computing
Laptops for learning
Learn what the processor, memory, storage and screen do, and which features matter for college work and coding.
Explore laptops
Inside a computer
PC components explained
Get to know the CPU, RAM, motherboard and storage, then see how they work together in a desktop PC.
Explore PC componentsTurn knowledge into practice
Try a mini IT project
Build your first web page
Create a page about a hobby, then give it your own style.
- Add a heading, a paragraph and a useful link.
- Use CSS to change the colours and spacing.
- Resize the browser and check it works on a phone.
Make a computer fact sheet
Learn about a device you already use, without opening its case.
- Use its system information to identify the processor and RAM.
- Find its operating system and storage capacity.
- Explain what each part does in your own words.
Make sense of the terminology
IT glossary
Showing all 8 terms. Select a term to read its meaning.
CPUCentral processing unit
The processor carries out instructions and calculations. It works with memory and the other components in your computer.
RAMRandom access memory
Temporary working memory for programs and data in use. Its contents are normally lost when the power is switched off.
SSDSolid-state drive
A storage device that keeps files and applications using flash memory. It retains data when the computer is off.
DNSDomain name system
A system that helps translate a website’s domain name into the IP address used to reach it.
HTMLHypertext markup language
The language used to structure web pages with headings, paragraphs, images, links and other elements.
CSSCascading style sheets
The language used to control a web page’s appearance, including colours, fonts, spacing and layout.
Wi-FiWireless networking
A way for devices to connect to a local network using radio waves. Wi-Fi and the internet are different things.
Operating systemSystem software
Software that manages hardware and provides services for applications. Examples include Windows, macOS and Linux.
No terms match your search. Try a shorter word or clear the search.
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Your IT learning checklist
Tick each skill when you feel confident. Progress is saved in this browser.
Everything in one place
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Everyday IT questions
Start with the hardware video, then read the computer component guide. Pick one unfamiliar term and look it up in the glossary. Open the tutorials.
Check that Wi-Fi is enabled and that you have selected the right network. See whether another device can connect, then try disconnecting and reconnecting your own device. Review networking basics.
Create a folder for each subject and use clear filenames with a date or version. Keep a backup of important work and check that you can open the backup. Explore learning resources.