iti 10 April 2025

ITI Computer Hardware & Network Maintenance Trade Syllabus (English)

The ITI Computer Hardware & Network Maintenance trade is a one-year vocational training program under the Craftsman Training Scheme (CTS), governed by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT). This course equips trainees with the skills to assemble, repair, and maintain computer hardware, install operating systems and software, and configure and troubleshoot network systems. The syllabus is designed to meet the demands of Indian and international industries, offering a blend of theoretical learning, hands-on practice, and employability skills to prepare students for roles such as hardware technicians, network support staff, and IT assistants.

Course Overview

  • Duration: 1 year (2 semesters, each 6 months)
  • NSQF Level: Level 4
  • Eligibility: Minimum 10th grade pass with Science and Mathematics (or equivalent)
  • Objective: To train skilled professionals capable of assembling, maintaining, and troubleshooting computer hardware and network systems with precision and safety.

Detailed Syllabus Breakdown

1. Trade Theory (Theoretical Knowledge)

Covers the foundational concepts and technical knowledge required for hardware and networking.

  • Semester 1
    • Introduction to Computer Hardware
      • Importance of computers in industry and daily life.
      • Roles and responsibilities of a hardware and network maintenance professional.
      • Basic computer components: CPU, motherboard, RAM, storage devices, input/output devices.
    • Safety Practices
      • Occupational hazards in hardware maintenance (electric shock, burns, static discharge).
      • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE): gloves, antistatic wristbands, safety glasses.
      • Fire prevention and first aid for electrical accidents.
    • Basic Electrical and Electronics
      • Fundamentals of electricity: voltage, current, resistance, power, Ohm’s Law.
      • AC and DC circuits, series and parallel connections.
      • Conductors, insulators, and semiconductors.
      • Measuring instruments: multimeter, oscilloscope, power supply testers.
    • Computer Hardware Components
      • Internal components: processor, RAM, ROM, hard disk, SMPS (Switched Mode Power Supply).
      • Peripheral devices: keyboard, mouse, monitor, printer, scanner.
      • Storage devices: HDD, SSD, optical drives, USB drives.
      • Identification and specifications of components (e.g., form factors, connectors).
    • Operating Systems and Software
      • Introduction to operating systems: Windows, Linux (basics).
      • Installation and configuration of OS, drivers, and application software.
      • File systems: FAT, NTFS, ext3/ext4.
    • Basic Networking Concepts
      • Introduction to networking: LAN, WAN, MAN.
      • Network topologies: star, bus, ring.
      • Types of networks: wired and wireless.
      • Networking devices: modem, router, switch, hub, access point.
  • Semester 2
    • Advanced Hardware Maintenance
      • Motherboard architecture and troubleshooting.
      • Power supply units: types, specifications, testing, and replacement.
      • BIOS/UEFI: configuration, updating, and troubleshooting.
      • Upgrading hardware: RAM, storage, graphics cards.
    • Network Configuration and Management
      • OSI and TCP/IP models: layers and functions.
      • IP addressing: IPv4, IPv6, subnetting, static vs. dynamic IP.
      • Network protocols: HTTP, FTP, DHCP, DNS.
      • Configuring routers, switches, and access points.
    • Network Security
      • Basics of network security: firewalls, antivirus, encryption.
      • Securing Wi-Fi networks: WPA2, WPA3, password management.
      • Identifying and mitigating common network threats (e.g., malware, phishing).
    • Server Administration
      • Introduction to servers: Windows Server, Linux Server basics.
      • Server roles: file server, print server, DHCP server.
      • Backup and recovery techniques for servers and data.
    • Emerging Technologies
      • Basics of cloud computing and virtualization.
      • Introduction to IoT (Internet of Things) and its applications.
      • Overview of cybersecurity trends and tools.

2. Trade Practical (Hands-On Skills)

Focuses on developing practical expertise in hardware and network maintenance.

  • Semester 1
    • Safety and Tool Handling
      • Safe handling of electrical and electronic tools.
      • Use of antistatic measures during hardware assembly.
    • Hardware Assembly and Disassembly
      • Assembling a desktop PC from components (CPU, motherboard, RAM, etc.).
      • Disassembling and reassembling laptops and peripherals.
      • Connecting and testing SMPS, hard drives, and optical drives.
    • Component Testing
      • Testing hardware components using multimeter and diagnostic tools.
      • Identifying faulty components (e.g., RAM, HDD, power supply).
    • Software Installation
      • Installing Windows and Linux operating systems.
      • Configuring drivers, updates, and basic software (e.g., MS Office).
      • Partitioning and formatting storage drives.
    • Basic Network Setup
      • Crimping Ethernet cables (straight-through and crossover).
      • Setting up a small LAN using a switch and computers.
      • Configuring IP addresses manually and via DHCP.
  • Semester 2
    • Advanced Hardware Troubleshooting
      • Diagnosing and repairing motherboard issues.
      • Replacing SMPS and upgrading hardware components.
      • Configuring BIOS/UEFI settings and resolving boot issues.
    • Network Configuration
      • Setting up and configuring a Wi-Fi network with security.
      • Connecting and configuring routers, switches, and modems.
      • Sharing resources (printers, files) over a network.
    • Printers and Scanners
      • Installing and troubleshooting inkjet and laser printers.
      • Configuring network printers and scanners.
    • Server Setup
      • Installing and configuring Windows Server (basic roles).
      • Setting up a Linux server for file sharing or DHCP.
      • Performing data backup and recovery operations.
    • Project Work
      • Building a small-scale network with multiple devices.
      • Assembling and troubleshooting a complete PC system.
      • Documenting the project with a report and circuit diagrams.

3. Workshop Calculation and Science

Provides the mathematical and scientific foundation for hardware and networking tasks.

  • Semester 1
    • Units and measurements: voltage, current, resistance, power.
    • Basic arithmetic: fractions, percentages, ratios for circuit calculations.
    • Ohm’s Law and power calculations in circuits.
    • Basics of heat dissipation and energy in electronic components.
  • Semester 2
    • Binary and hexadecimal number systems for IP addressing.
    • Calculations for subnetting and bandwidth estimation.
    • Understanding frequency, wavelength, and signal strength in networking.
    • Basic physics of electromagnetism in cables and wireless systems.

4. Engineering Drawing

Teaches technical drawing and interpretation of hardware and network layouts.

  • Semester 1
    • Use of drawing tools: scale, compass, protractor.
    • Symbols for hardware components (e.g., resistor, capacitor, ICs).
    • Simple schematic diagrams for power supply and basic circuits.
  • Semester 2
    • Network layout diagrams: LAN, Wi-Fi setups.
    • Reading and drawing wiring diagrams for Ethernet cabling.
    • Block diagrams for server and network configurations.

5. Employability Skills

Enhances job readiness and soft skills.

  • Semester 1
    • Communication skills: workplace interaction, report writing.
    • Time management and teamwork in technical settings.
    • Basic IT skills: MS Office, email usage.
  • Semester 2
    • Entrepreneurship basics: starting a hardware repair business.
    • Resume writing and interview preparation.
    • Advanced IT skills: internet research, use of diagnostic software.

Assessment and Certification

  • Examinations: Conducted semester-wise, including theoretical and practical components.
  • Certification: Successful candidates receive the National Trade Certificate (NTC) from NCVT, recognized nationally and internationally.
  • Evaluation: Based on practical tests (e.g., PC assembly, network setup), written exams, and project work.

Career Opportunities

  • Employment:
    • Technician for hardware and network maintenance.
    • Assistant to system/network engineers.
    • Supervisor in hardware assembly units.
    • Salesperson in hardware and networking products.
    • Faculty or lab assistant in computer training institutes.
  • Self-Employment:
    • Starting a business in hardware repair, sales, and networking services.
    • Setting up and managing a computer training institute or cyber café.
  • Further Studies: Lateral entry into diploma courses in computer engineering or IT.

Note

  • This syllabus aligns with the latest NCVT guidelines and may vary slightly based on institutional or state-specific requirements.
  • For the most current version, refer to the Directorate General of Training (DGT) website (dgt.gov.in) or consult your local ITI.

Trade Type

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