Computer & Online Essentials

The Computer & Online Essentials module sets out essential concepts and skills relating to the use of devices, file creation and management, networks, and data security.

There is a range of essentials skills and knowledge that everyone who uses technology should possess. These skills and knowledge will allow you to manage computers, devices, and data securely and effectively. ICDL Computer & Online Essentials builds these, allowing you take advantage of the opportunity technology provides in the workplace.

Module overview

Category	Skill set
Computers and devices	ICT Hardware Software and licensing Start up, shut down
Desktop, icons, settings	Desktops and icons Using windows Tools and settings
Outputs	Working with text Printing
File management	Introducing files and folders Organising files and folders Storage and compression
Networks	Network concepts Network access
Security and wellbeing	Protecting data and devices Malware Health and green IT

What are the benefits of this module?

Covers the key skills and main concepts relating to ICT, computers, devices, and software
Certifies best practice in effective computer use
Developed with input from computer users, subject matter experts, and practising computer professionals from all over the world. This process ensures the relevence and range of module content

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module the candidate will be able to:

Understand key concepts relating to ICT, computers, devices and software.
Start up and shut down a computer
Work effectively on the computer desktop using icons, windows
Adjust the main operating system settings and use built-in help features
Create a simple document and print an output
Know about the main concepts of file management and be able to efficiently organise files and folders
Understand key storage concepts and use utility software to compress and extract large files
Understand network concepts and connection options and be able to connect to a network
Understand the importance of protecting data and devices from malware, and the importance of backing up data
Recognise considerations relating to green IT, accessibility, and user health

Syllabus

The detailed syllabus for the Computer & Online Essentials module is publicly available, so that there is complete clarity about what is covered.

The syllabus document, which sets out the specific skills and knowledge that you will learn and against which you will be certified, can be downloaded here.

Download syllabus

Sample tests

Do you want to better understand the Computer & Online Essentials module and how we test skills and knowledge

Try out the Computer & Online Essentials sample tests here to get a feel for the coverage of the module, or practice before your certification test.

Download sample tests

ICDL Workforce Modules

Designed to build the critical digital skills of the modern workplace, ICDL Workforce is a tiered programme that will help employees with effective use of technology.

Find out more about ICDL Workforce

The modules in ICDL Workforce are:

Essential Skills

Application Essentials