Hardware & Systems skill path: PC hardware and IT support basics

The Hardware & Systems path at White Fortress Academy is a set of 3 free browser games: Hardware Builder, Troubleshoot It! and OS Installation Challenge. Together they practise Hardware identification, PC assembly, Compatibility, Hardware troubleshooting, Software troubleshooting, Systematic diagnosis. Pass every game with 70% or more, then the 15-question final exam, to earn the Hardware & Systems certificate.

▶ Start with Hardware BuilderTake the 5-minute quiz

Games in the Hardware & Systems path

Beginner · game 1 of 3

Hardware Builder

Drag CPU, RAM, motherboard, storage, GPU, PSU and cooling into a case — and make sure everything is compatible.

  • Hardware identification
  • PC assembly
  • Compatibility
Beginner · game 2 of 3

Troubleshoot It!

A PC is broken. Inspect cables, RAM, drivers, Wi-Fi and Task Manager — find the real cause in the fewest steps.

  • Hardware troubleshooting
  • Software troubleshooting
  • Systematic diagnosis
Intermediate · game 3 of 3

OS Installation Challenge

Boot from USB, partition the disk and install Windows or Linux — without wiping the wrong drive.

  • BIOS/UEFI boot
  • Partitioning
  • OS install
  • Post-install setup

Skill tracks inside this path

How the certificate works

Each game awards up to three stars; you need 70% or more to pass it. Once every game in the path is passed, the final exam opens: 15 random questions from a larger bank, 12 minutes, 70% to pass. Your progress is saved in your own browser, so no sign-up is needed.

Questions people ask

What is the Hardware & Systems path?

The Hardware & Systems path at White Fortress Academy is a set of 3 free browser games: Hardware Builder, Troubleshoot It! and OS Installation Challenge. Together they practise Hardware identification, PC assembly, Compatibility, Hardware troubleshooting, Software troubleshooting, Systematic diagnosis. Pass every game with 70% or more, then the 15-question final exam, to earn the Hardware & Systems certificate.

How do I earn the Hardware & Systems certificate?

Pass every game in the path with a score of 70% or more, then pass the timed final exam for the path: 15 mixed questions in 12 minutes, 70% to pass. The certificate shows your name and can be printed or shared.

Do I need any experience to start?

No. Hardware Builder is rated Beginner, so you can start from zero. If you are unsure, the 5-minute placement quiz recommends a first game.

Are there shorter certificates inside the Hardware & Systems path?

Yes. The path includes 2 shorter skill tracks that need no final exam: PC Technician (Hardware Builder + OS Installation Challenge). Help-desk Support (Troubleshoot It! + OS Installation Challenge + Network Setup Simulator).

How do I start learning PC hardware and IT support?

Learn what the parts are and how they fit together, then practise finding faults and installing an operating system. This path takes you through Hardware Builder, Troubleshoot It! and OS Installation Challenge, all free in your browser.

Other skill paths

Networking · Cybersecurity · Office & Productivity · Programming & CLI · All 18 games