{"id":28375,"date":"2021-01-13T04:42:31","date_gmt":"2021-01-13T12:42:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/?p=28375"},"modified":"2021-04-14T15:55:47","modified_gmt":"2021-04-14T22:55:47","slug":"computer-architecture","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/computer-architecture\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Learn Computer Architecture: Best Courses and Learning Resources"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Are you someone who loves taking computers apart and figuring out how the hardware and the software work? Or perhaps you’re interested in building one from scratch? Maybe you\u2019ve already done so? If you\u2019re any of the three, becoming a computer architect may be the right path for you. Read on to find out how you can turn this hobby into a career.<\/p>\n\n\n

What Is Computer Architecture?<\/h2>\n\nThat computer you are working on right now, a computer architect built it. It\u2019s not every day that you hear about computer architects. After all, don\u2019t architects work on houses instead of computers?\u00a0
\nBut just as how a house is filled with furniture and fixtures, a computer is likewise made up of components designed to make it fully functional. Enter the computer architects who work on the design and overall function of hardware and software systems.\u00a0
\n

Mastering the architecture of modern computers requires having the ability to build high-performance systems as well as improve the performance of existing ones. Because of this, not everyone can be a computer architect.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n

To qualify for the role, you must hold a bachelor\u2019s degree in computer science<\/a>, computer engineering, information systems, or any other related field. If that\u2019s too much of an investment for you, start by learning about computer hardware<\/a> and software by taking computer science courses online<\/a>. These short-term programs are always a good way to gauge your interest and suitability for the role you\u2019re aiming for.<\/p>\n\n\n

What Is the Role of a Computer Architect?<\/h3>\n\nA computer architect, sometimes called a computer network architect, is a puzzle solver. A computer architect dedicates their time to understanding the components of a computer to optimize its overall performance and functionality. This makes them an asset for organizations as they work to keep internal computer networks running.
\nThe three main skills a computer architect needs to have are programming, problem-solving, and technical know-how. You may sometimes be called a \u201csystems analyst\u201d as well. This is because you will be optimizing the performance of many computer systems.\u00a0
\nDepending on the sector you work for, you will also be required to optimize their own internal systems such as a point of sale system like a till at a grocery store or a banking system at a bank.
\n

Another crucial role for computer architects is to make sure systems are secure from cyberattacks or any other types of threats. In which case, knowledge of security and antivirus applications is also essential.<\/p>\n\n\n

Types of Computer Architecture<\/h3>\n\nWhen you think about computer architecture, you should think of it as the act of feeding a bunch of instructions into a computer system in order for it to perform various tasks.
\n

Below are the four types or areas of computer architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n

Von-Neumann Architecture<\/h4>\n\nModern computers have multiple functions combined together into one unit and connected by circuitry. Back in the day, these inner workings were different, however, in modern day computers, the architecture is based on the Van-Neumann Architecture<\/a>.\u00a0
\n

The memory, for instance, follows the read\/write instructions that are stored in the computer. Each instruction points to a different location within the computer system and each location has its own unique address. These contents of the memory can be accessed and changed or updated by computer architects.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n

Instruction Set Architecture<\/h4>\n\nMany computer programmers use this type in their jobs<\/a>. One of the main sets of instructions that processors understand is instruction set architecture.\u00a0
\n

This type of computer architecture involves instructions sent to processors and is divided into two different instruction sets, namely Complex Instruction Set Computer (CISC) and Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC). This is a set of instructions that have multiple address modes.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n

Microarchitecture<\/h4>\n\n

Microarchitecture performs differently from any of the other types because it reads the instructions input into the system and decodes it only within microcontrollers and microprocessors. Some architectures can overlap multiple instructions when using the other methods, however, in microarchitecture, this is not an option.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n

Harvard Architecture<\/h4>\n\n

This type of architecture is used when data and instruction are stored in separate memory blocks. When the design is too complex for architectures to use any other method of modifying a set of instructions, they choose this option.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n

Learning Computer Architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n
\"a<\/p>\n
Computer architects are considered an asset for organizations as they work to keep internal computer networks running.<\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n

While a bachelor\u2019s degree<\/a> is the conventional path to becoming a computer architect, other paths that are just as viable have entered the education sphere in recent years. These include bootcamps that offer hands-on training in network security<\/a> and database design<\/a>, both of which are essential skills for computer architects.<\/p>\n\n\n

How Long Does It Take to Learn Computer Architecture?<\/h3>\n\nThe length of time to mastery varies by whatever learning path you take. Below are a few options.
\n\n
    \n
  1. Complete a bachelor\u2019s degree program in computer science, computer engineering, or any related field. This is usually awarded after four years of study.<\/li>\n
  2. Further your education with a Master\u2019s of Business Administration in Information Systems Management<\/a>. This takes two years to finish and is beneficial to learning about both business and computer systems.\u00a0<\/li>\n
  3. Opt for an accelerated computer science degree<\/a>. As the name implies, this allows you to take on a much faster track to earning a degree. The program takes about two years to finish and may be accessed online.<\/li>\n
  4. Earn credentials for other related fields, such as network administration degrees<\/a>, and then specialize in computer architecture. Depending on the program you choose, a degree in network administration may be awarded between two and four years.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n

    How to Learn Computer Architecture: Step-by-Step<\/h3>\n\nSome computer architects eventually step up to IT managerial roles once they\u2019ve had sufficient experience. Continuous education in this field is always recommended to keep with the times and ever-changing technologies. Below are our recommended steps when learning computer architecture:
    \n\n
      \n
    1. Learn Coding.<\/strong> The first step in any computer-related field is to learn the necessary coding languages<\/a> and programming languages such as Python and C++<\/a>. You can also join a coding bootcamp<\/a> or attend some courses to equip yourself with the coding skills that you\u2019ll need in your future career.<\/li>\n
    2. Get Your Degree.<\/strong> Getting a degree is highly beneficial to get ahead in any computer science career path<\/a>. Getting your bachelor\u2019s degree in computer science or computer engineering, and then progressing to a master\u2019s degree, is highly advantageous and sought-after by recruiters.<\/li>\n
    3. Explore Related Courses and Training.<\/strong> Look at the skills needed for a computer architecture role and try to leverage any course or training that will help you obtain them. For instance, you can take a course in computer repair<\/a>.<\/li>\n
    4. Emulate your seniors.<\/strong> Who says being a computer architect is a stagnant role? Reach for the stars. Check out what IT managers do and how to become one<\/a>. This will help give you some perspective on the skills, knowledge, and experience you\u2019ll need to have to move up the ladder.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n

      The Best Computer Architecture Courses and Training<\/h2>\n\n\n
      \"Three<\/p>\n
      The best computer architecture courses and training can be found both online and in-person.<\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n

      There are many options for learning and launching a career in computer architecture, from in-person programs to remote ones with some even offered for free. Let\u2019s take a look at these.<\/p>\n\n\n

      In-Person Computer Architecture Classes<\/h3>\n\n

      While online courses have been gaining popularity in recent years, the preference for in-person training remains strong. If you\u2019re more of a traditional learner, below are some of the best computer architecture programs taught within the campus walls.<\/p>\n\n\n

      University of Oxford<\/h4>\n\n\n