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Computer hardware vs Computer Software

A computer is an electronic device that processes data through hardware and software. Hardware includes physical components like the CPU, motherboard, and storage devices, while software consists of instructions and programs that operate the hardware. Software is categorized into system software, application software, programming software, and firmware, each serving different functions to enable the computer to perform tasks.

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2 views2 pages

Computer hardware vs Computer Software

A computer is an electronic device that processes data through hardware and software. Hardware includes physical components like the CPU, motherboard, and storage devices, while software consists of instructions and programs that operate the hardware. Software is categorized into system software, application software, programming software, and firmware, each serving different functions to enable the computer to perform tasks.

Uploaded by

Nina Lyn
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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A computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of

instructions stored in its own memory that can accept data (input), process
the data according to specified rules, produce information (output), and store
the information for future use. Any kind of computer consists of HARDWARE
AND SOFTWARE.

Computer hardware refers to the physical components of a computer


system. These are the tangible parts that you can touch and handle.
Examples include:

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU) - The brain of the computer,


responsible for processing instructions.

2. Motherboard - The main circuit board that connects all the computer
components together.

3. Memory (RAM) - Temporary storage used by the CPU to run programs


and process data.

4. Storage Devices (HDD/SSD) - These store data permanently,


including the operating system, software, and files.

5. Power Supply Unit (PSU) - Provides power to all the internal


components.

6. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) - Handles rendering of images,


videos, and animations, especially in gaming or graphic design.

7. Input Devices - Hardware used to input data, such as a keyboard,


mouse, or microphone.

8. Output Devices - Hardware that outputs data, like monitors, printers,


and speakers.

Computer software refers to the set of instructions, data, or programs used


to operate computers and execute specific tasks. Unlike hardware, which is
the physical aspect of a computer, software is intangible and tells the
hardware what to do. It can be classified into several categories:

1. System Software

 This type of software helps us run the computer hardware and the
computer system itself. It includes:
o Operating Systems (OS): Manages the hardware and software
resources of the computer, like Windows, macOS, Linux, or
Android.

o Utility Programs: These are programs that perform


maintenance tasks, such as antivirus software, disk cleanup
tools, and file management tools.

2. Application Software

 These are programs designed to help users perform specific tasks.


Examples include:

o Productivity Software: Word processors (e.g., Microsoft Word),


spreadsheets (e.g., Excel), and presentation tools (e.g.,
PowerPoint).

o Web Browsers: Software like Google Chrome, Firefox, or Safari,


used to access and view websites.

o Multimedia Software: Programs like video editors (e.g., Adobe


Premiere), music players (e.g., Spotify), and image editors (e.g.,
Photoshop).

3. Programming Software

 This type of software provides tools for programmers to create, debug,


and maintain other software and applications. Examples include:

o Compilers: Translate programming code into machine code.

o Integrated Development Environments (IDEs): Tools that


help developers write and test software, such as Visual Studio or
Eclipse.

4. Firmware

 Firmware is a specific type of software embedded into hardware


devices (like routers, printers, or cameras) that controls how the device
behaves.

In essence, software enables a computer to perform tasks and provide


functionality to users based on the input they provide.

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