This specialization provides comprehensive training in Microsoft Windows, Linux, and Open Source operating systems. Covering installation, configuration, and security fundamentals, it equips IT professionals with essential skills for effective system administration. Participants gain hands-on experience with both platforms, mastering system setup, user management, networking, and security implementation.
Mastering Operating Systems Specialization
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Mastering Operating Systems Specialization
Master Operating Systems for IT Professionals. Master Windows, Linux, and open-source OS to advance your IT career.
Instructors: Kevin Vaccaro
Included with 
Get in-depth knowledge of a subject
Intermediate level
Recommended experience
4 months at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Earn a career credential
Share your expertise with employers
Get in-depth knowledge of a subject
Intermediate level
Recommended experience
4 months at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Earn a career credential
Share your expertise with employers
What you'll learn
Configure and secure Windows and Linux OS environments
Manage system resources, users, and permissions
Implement security protocols and best practices
Overview
Skills you'll gain
What’s included
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Taught in English
Recently updated!
August 2025
65 practice exercises
Advance your subject-matter expertise
- Learn in-demand skills from university and industry experts
- Master a subject or tool with hands-on projects
- Develop a deep understanding of key concepts
- Earn a career certificate from Illinois Tech
Specialization - 3 course series
What you'll learn
Demonstrate the use of command line tools.
Explore key features of the Windows OS.
Examine the Windows Registry.
Skills you'll gain
Category: Microsoft Windows
Category: Systems Administration
Category: Graphical Tools
Category: Command-Line Interface
Category: Operating Systems
Category: User Accounts
Category: Information Technology Operations
Category: Network Administration
Category: System Monitoring
Category: OS Process Management
Category: System Configuration
Category: System Software
What you'll learn
Demonstrate the use of command line tools.
Explore key features of the Linux OS.
Explore service management of the Linux OS.
Skills you'll gain
Category: Linux
Category: Service Management
Category: User Accounts
Category: Command-Line Interface
Category: File Management
Category: System Monitoring
Category: Software Installation
Category: Linux Administration
Category: Linux Commands
Category: Graphical Tools
Category: System Configuration
Category: Systems Administration
Category: Package and Software Management
Category: Operating Systems
What you'll learn
OS troubleshooting - Path Permission and Dependencies
Bash Language Shell Scripting
Skills you'll gain
Category: Linux
Category: Linux Commands
Category: Linux Administration
Category: Shell Script
Category: Package and Software Management
Category: Unix
Category: File Systems
Category: IT Automation
Category: System Configuration
Category: Command-Line Interface
Category: Software Installation
Category: Operating Systems
Category: Scripting
Category: Systems Administration
Category: Database Management
Category: Bash (Scripting Language)
Category: Red Hat Enterprise Linux
Category: Computing Platforms
Category: General Networking
Category: Open Source Technology
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.
Build toward a degree
This Specialization is part of the following degree program(s) offered by Illinois Tech. If you are admitted and enroll, your completed coursework may count toward your degree learning and your progress can transfer with you.¹
Instructors
Offered by
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Frequently asked questions
No, it’s not required—but it is recommended that you follow the course sequence listed on the specialization landing page. This order is designed to help you build your skills progressively, from foundational concepts to more advanced topics.
No, this specialization is open to all MOOC learners. You do not need to be an admitted degree-seeking student to complete the specialization and receive a Coursera–IIT co-branded non-credit certificate.
This course is completely online, so there’s no need to show up to a classroom in person. You can access your lectures, readings and assignments anytime and anywhere via the web or your mobile device.
More questions
Financial aid available,